'Horse Whisperer' Offers Program Just for Women

“We have a lot to learn from horses,” said Kiki Ebsen, owner of The Healing Equine Ranch on Agoura Road.

The multi-awarded former junior rider is not just talking about her own life experiences growing up on this ranch but also about being “present” and “unplugged” in today’s fast-paced electronic world.

“Horses are herd animals,” said Ebsen who rescues horses. “They need effective leadership or they may lose their respect for you.”

Effective leadership along with life skills, communication and listening tools are just some of the topics that will be covered this weekend, Jan. 7 and 8, in a two-part program entitled “Horse Mornings for Women.”

“There will be no riding, just ground work and interaction with horses,” said Ebsen of the teaching program she put together to “empower women.”

Now in its second year, the program is for all women with or without experiences with horses. The typical age range is 30 to 60 years old, she said.

“Most of the women are in transitional stages in their lives,” said Ebsen. “Some are going through job losses, deaths, divorces or empty nests.”

Women who are looking for something fulfilling to do or looking for answers are usually drawn to the program, according to Ebsen.

Past participant Sheri O’Hara Watton needed some time to heal. “When I looked into the horse’s eyes, I saw so much wisdom and life,” said O’Hara Watton, who had to deal with the death of her brother.

“It has helped me have a sense of purpose, so I can move forward with my life,” she said.

For others, the life skills they acquire help with enhancing relationships. “The program was really empowering for me,” said Debra Davis from Glendale. “I’ve since applied the principles I learned to this ongoing power play between me and my daughter."

Ebsen has a full day planned for the women, from studying the horses to exploring their language. “Like us, they have ‘horsenalities’,” said Ebsen.

Deborah Raoult, another past participant from Calabasas, said she appreciated the learning environment. “I learned how horses interact, about their social structure and how it calls for decisive, beneficial leadership,” she said. “I’m able to apply that now in daily life and relationships.”

“Women are typically more nurturing and giving to spouses and children with a tendency to give up leadership positions,” said Ebsen. “We’ll tackle being assertive here and not worrying about what other people think.”

West Hollywood resident Suzanne Waters is a first-time participant. “I’m really looking forward to a weekend of self-discovery,” she said.

For more information and to sign up, click here.