Most of us are currently experiencing mandated quarantine or at the very least, “social distancing”, in a concerted effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Our lives have been disrupted, with many now working from home or maybe not even working at all. Since schools and colleges have canceled classes for the coming weeks, our children are home with us 24/7 (which can present its own challenges!) We’ve traded social gatherings and eating out for home-cooked meals and family time. But maybe that isn’t such a bad thing.
Though these may be strange and somewhat scary times, I also can’t help but feel extremely grateful for many things right now, especially the fact that I live in the country and have horses.
Each morning, when I go out to feed my three, I’m filled with a sense of normalcy and calm. My horses know nothing of the current news and worry. To them, each day is just another day on the farm. I’ve found that caring for my animals and doing my usual outdoor chores keeps me busy; it gives me something to focus on other than the current state of affairs.
Speaking of outdoor chores, my family has also started a garden a little earlier than usual this year, and just the simple act of working in the soil and tending to plants can instill a sense of quiet amid these chaotic times. I highly recommend starting a garden of your own, even if all you can do is a small raised bed (old stock tanks are great for this!)
Being outside, period, is a good thing right now—so long as you’re maintaining that appropriate social distancing space. Sunshine and vitamin D can do wonders for a person. They can do wonders for the soul, too.
Events may be cancelled for the time being, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get out and ride your horse. If you don’t feel like riding, maybe just spend time grooming or doing some much-needed chores around the barn.
Right now is also a great time to reflect and appreciate all the good in our lives, including horses. They really do make life—even in quarantine—better!
Feel free to share what you and your horses have been up to lately in the comments below!
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Casie Bazay is a freelance and young adult writer, as well as an owner/barefoot trimmer and certified equine acupressure practitioner. She hosts the blog, The Naturally Healthy Horse, where she regularly shares information on barefoot, equine nutrition, and holistic horse health. Once an avid barrel racer, Casie now enjoys just giving back to the horses who have given her so much. Follow Casie at www.casiebazay.com.
