I’m going to try and not make this too corny, but don’t say I didn’t warn you: this morning I lived out a dream. I learned to lope out in a huge field, surrounded by mountains, under the Big Sky. My hair might have even been flowing a bit behind me. Now this may not seem like a big deal, but allow me to elaborate. First of all, a lope on horseback is also known as cantering, and it is one gear below gallop – so in my book, that’s pretty darn fast. And despite the fact that I am known for speed while driving (not a good thing, I know), I am really afraid of going fast on things like skis and horses. But, the patient plodding through proper technique has brought me more confidence, and I am learning to embrace speed. I have been dreaming (literally) about getting on the other side of this loping thing; I can feel it in my body, I can picture it happening, I know what it should feel like, but every time it comes up my entire being goes rigid with fear. So, today Janice took me out in the field, told me to hang on, and said let’s just GO. Off went Janice on Tango, and Flash and I followed. It was like a scene out of a movie. And not only was I GOING FAST, I was LOVING IT! I started laughing out loud and I’m sure I yelled Yeehaw at some point too. Fear dissolved and I let go of all the anxiety, all the crap I’ve been dealing with lately, and just loped. What an absolutely glorious, juicy way to live in the moment. Talk about horse therapy! This morning’s experience reminded me of how much our bodies can hold on to when we are fearful and worried. We need to give both body and mind the opportunity to let go. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I’ve never found anything better to do so than horses and yoga. Summed up by, Yeehaw & Namaste. Here’s me on Flash. Happy weekend.