Releasing Restrictions with Cathy Woods: Liberated Equestrian Podcast, Episode 005

It is an honor to be joined by Cathy Woods on this episode of the Liberated Equestrian Podcast. She is not only a lifelong equestrian who enjoys backcountry trail riding but also a longtime yoga instructor, author of Yoga for Riders, and creator of her trademarked program, Body, Mind, Equine, Cathy is passionate about focusing on overall equestrian wellness. She has partnered with amazing venues such as Equitana, Liberty Festival, Equine Affaire, Warwick Schillers Journey on Summit, Tryon International Equestrian Center, and C Lazy U Ranch to educate and equip fellow equestrians in the practice of authentic yoga and mindful horsemanship.

As Cathy describes, “Restrictions in our bodies and restrictions in our minds restrict our horse.” She explains how yoga and the meditation cushion can be the groundwork for the human, providing a way to show up better for our horse. Cathy describes how the practice of yoga on the mat (not the horse) can help you become aware of your breath and body in a way that unlocks how you show up in and out of the saddle. She also shares that we can respond to those interrupting thoughts by “Thanking the mind for its opinion and coming back to the breath.”

Cathy’s emphasis living in the present moment came at an influential time in my life when I had the privilege to experience one of her retreats. I learned from her how to be more present in the moment by focusing on the “recent future.” Her encouragement to “Get into a position that would not distract you from the moment” was equally impactful. Since trauma can result in fantasy-prone thinking, living for the next thing instead of living in the present moment and enduring pain by trying to ignore it, these simple expressions from Cathy were helpful tools in my recovery from my riding accidents and influenced the direction of Finding Calm.

As Cathy shares in her closing thoughts, “We get to partner with horses. It is a blessing. It is an honor.” This episode will inspire you to be a healthy partner and a blessing to your horse as a way to honor them.