Arriving in New Zealand

After South Korea, I returned to Japan for my flight to New Zealand.

I spent the night in a hotel waiting for my flight. On the last day, I went shopping and met friends for dinner. Most of the night was a bonding session, making our connections more permanent through the App LINE. Our more serious discussion was about ASD and the new ideas that were coming out of the research. We all felt pleased that the situation for clients on the spectrum was receiving more help.

Until this three-country trip, I had been in semi-retirement, but I continued working overseas by giving lectures and workshops. After October 7th, I began helping clients in Israel who had been traumatized by the devastating events of that day. Most of my clients are soldiers, their families, and survivors of the Nova Festival. I believe that we can assist people in the early stages of trauma before they develop chronic PTSD. My methodology is based on collaborating with horses to provide a somatic experience that helps individuals relax, allowing them to form new attachments and positive emotional experiences. My EAS program is called “Transcending Trauma,” and we now have four other therapists working to support our, unfortunately, many clients.

I hadn’t given much thought to the teaching and learning aspects of the subject, even though I have a granddaughter with a severe type of autism. However, my journey through three countries awakened my previous knowledge of the subject. It encouraged me to update myself, realizing there was much more I could do for people on the spectrum. My work with trauma also helped me understand how lonely and isolated individuals with ASD can feel and how they can become casualties of PTSD.

During my journey, it became evident how intertwined professional growth and emotional connections can be. Teaching practitioners allowed me to share my knowledge while simultaneously learning from the rich experiences of autistic children and adults I met along the way. Engaging in this deep exchange prompted me to revisit my previous notes, which seemed outdated as my understanding evolved.

I recently participated in an intensive workshop on autism led by the dedicated practitioner Dna Wells, the founder of Equipotential, with the invaluable support of practitioner Devon Tretheway. Dna, an Olympic-level three-day event rider and horse trainer, and her colleague Devon, a skilled show jumping competitor, emphasized the powerful impact of equine-assisted services. Their commitment to providing quality equine experiences for individuals facing challenges and disabilities resonated professionally and emotionally with me. My time in New Zealand, filled with learning and connection, will forever remain unforgettable.

The workshop brought together fourteen committed participants from various regions of New Zealand, all eager to develop a more cohesive therapeutic approach to the equine-assisted services (EAS) programs they offered in their local communities. I had the opportunity to share insights about my principles of practice and methodology, mainly focusing on individuals on the autism spectrum (ASD) and those who have experienced trauma. Dna and Devon ensured that Equipotential created an environment where every detail was thoughtfully considered, allowing us to gain the maximum benefit from our time together at the center. The atmosphere fostered connection and collaboration, highlighting our shared passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. It was an inspiring experience reinforcing the importance of compassionate care in our practices.

The pinnacle of this journey arrived on the last day when we engaged in groundwork with the horses. In those moments, a genuinely magical bond formed between participants, instructors, and volunteers, creating a shared connection that transcended words. These memories will resonate deeply within us all.

Note that both Dna Wells and Devon Tretheway are members of HETI. Dna and I serve on the HETI ethics task force committee, where we played a crucial role in creating the document “HETI Ethical Guidelines.”

Following the workshop, my adventures continued as I traveled to the South Island with Devon. Our days were filled with breathtaking experiences. We soared across majestic mountains, navigated the stunning landscapes of Milford Sound, enjoyed rides in a cable car, and reveled in horseback riding, which took us to new and wonderful places. 

 

Each moment allowed us to immerse ourselves in New Zealand’s spectacular scenery, reminiscent of the enchanting settings from “The Lord of the Rings.”

We sailed on Lake Wakatipu, marveling at the magnificent surroundings while forging deeper connections with each other and the stunning environment—this journey beautifully combined professional insights with emotional depth, leaving an indelible mark on my heart.

 

Reflecting on my journey, I feel compelled to share my experience at a Kiwi sanctuary. Despite the relentless downpour, Devon and I visited the sanctuary and ventured into the twilight zone. I was fortunate enough to catch glimpses of four Kiwi birds. While the darkness obscured their colors, their distinctive shapes were unmistakable. This experience truly encapsulated New Zealand for me. Although I may not have explored every corner of this remarkable land, what I encountered left a profound impression. I am deeply thankful for the people I met, the diverse flora and fauna I witnessed, and the breathtaking landscapes that define the Southern Hemisphere. Each moment reminded me of the beauty and wonder of this unique island nation.

 A Journey from Fukuoka to Icheon

My journey through the therapeutic landscape of South Korea began in the picturesque setting of Fukuoka, Japan. Accompanied by Kiginu Nakata, the President of RDA Japan, I returned to Keikouen, a remarkable center that has supported individuals with intellectual challenges since 1957. The memory of my previous visit, fifteen years earlier, flooded back as I walked through the tranquil gardens, where the calmness of nature and the warmth of community enveloped me.

During this visit, I was honored to reconnect with Madam Sieko, a cherished figure from the founding family. It was a poignant moment, reflecting on the beacon of hope that Keikouen has represented over the years. The center’s dedication is beautifully encapsulated in its mission: “Blessed infinite light felt from Mother Nature and the people all around me. At this moment, my love and hope are shared with people around me; it is also felt inside me—My happiness is born.”

Keikouen’s principles stand firm: respect for life with dignity, support that nurtures growth, and minimizing environmental limitations. I was particularly moved by their incorporation of horseback riding therapy, which adds an enriching dimension to their services.

As I bid farewell to Madam Sieko at the train station, memories of the intellectually challenged adults gathering grass for the horses and engaging in art and horticulture made me smile. My path soon led me to Busan, South Korea. With guidance from Professor Sukkyung Park (Sookie), founder of the Collab and Equine Assisted Service Program, I explored the bustling entrance of Busan’s fish market, where the vibrant atmosphere and fresh seafood offered an authentic taste of local culture.

Exploring South Korea’s Therapeutic Landscape

The three days that followed were a blend of exploration and education as I absorbed the essence of Busan, grounded in its rich history and modern vibrancy. From Busan, Sookie and I embarked on a train ride to Icheon, where her son Michael welcomed us with open arms.

My second workshop in Icheon centered on the complex and varied experiences of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). I emphasized the importance of allowing clients ample time to process requests, fostering an environment of understanding and support. To promote a sense of security, I encouraged the incorporation of personal objects or toys that clients felt attached to.

Through consistent repetition of activities, we achieved trust and structure. We explored the unique physical and mental qualities of horses as therapeutic tools, providing individuals on the spectrum with enhanced sensory experiences. Activities were designed to increase sensory input while also improving communication, concentration, and coordination skills.

Collab: the Equine Assisted Activities Center

Under Sookie’s guidance, bolstered by her colleague Jasmine Kim, Collab Equine Services has emerged as a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of ASD. In response to heartfelt community requests, Sookie has committed to creating equine-assisted services catering to these individuals. Her dual roles as a neuromotor specialist and passionate equine enthusiast drive her tireless dedication to this essential work.

The workshop buzzed with vibrancy and purpose, bringing together instructors who share a collective belief in the transformative power of equine therapy. Founded in 2001, the Korea Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (KATH) plays a crucial role in advocating for individuals facing various challenges. Led by President Tae-Woon Jung (John), KATH is committed to strengthening equine-assisted services throughout South Korea, promoting the welfare of horses and individuals with disabilities.

In contemporary South Korea, the commitment to nurturing the well-being of horses and humans reflects a powerful bond that transcends conventional boundaries. The advocacy efforts of these KATH members highlight this harmonious connection, underscoring the fundamental importance of care, empathy, and respect toward all beings. This journey has deepened my appreciation for therapeutic practices and reinforced the idea that love and connection can flourish in even the most challenging circumstances.

Before I left South Korea, Sookie invited me to speak to a class of her students at Yongin-Si University. The class focused on global connections and learning about different cultures and countries, including their traditions and political views. I was asked to talk about Israel, which was the first time in my life that I had been invited to discuss a current crisis and the perspectives of both religious and secular Jewry. I hope I did a good job!

A Journey to Japan – Embracing Every Moment

Leaving Israel on October 9th, 2024, was an emotional experience. As I boarded my flight to Munich, where I would catch my connecting flight to Tokyo, I couldn’t shake the nostalgia for my loved ones back home. Yet, my anticipation for the journey ahead was palpable. Japan has always felt like a second home to me—a place where serenity and vibrancy coexist, rich with breathtaking landscapes and a culture that flourishes amidst modernity.

Upon my arrival in Tokyo, President of RDA Japan Kiginu Nakata’s, warm welcome melted away my anxieties. Her radiant smile reminded me of the supportive community I would be working within, RDA Japan. After a restful night, we drove to Gotemba, a beautiful part of Japan, where I was lucky enough to work at Mount Fuji’s base. There, I led a workshop focused on children and adults on the Autism Spectrum and those with ADHD.

On arrival at the park, I was met by my old friends, Emiko Oto and Nakata Oto, acquaintances, and new people, all keen to help challenged learners find their way through interacting and bonding with horses.

The Healing Power of Nature and Horses

The workshop took place in Gotemba’s National Horse Park, where many competitions are held. When we arrived with our horses from Yokohama, we had the place to ourselves, which meant we could have the whole indoor arena to enjoy. Our group stayed at Yamanakakao Hirano, a serene park surrounded by forests. Each of us had a charming cabin, which was traditional Japanese style. The setting was almost magical.

Throughout the workshop, we balanced study with practice. My methodology has always been to use horses’ magnificent properties to stimulate positive growth through sensory awareness, emotional relaxation, focus, and direction, so what is learned and felt can be transferred to other environments like home, school, or work. People who are on the Autism Spectrum need support to feel they are part of our world. They can easily include the horse, which provides sensory motor stimulation, communication, and an excellent social and emotional environment. Practitioners can teach many coping skills through bonding and therapeutic interactions. Learning speech and normal development come through motivation to be with and do things with a horse.

 
 
 

The young adults I met were phenomenal, exhibiting incredible talents and enthusiasm when riding. Their connection with the horses was inspiring, showcasing a rhythm and awareness that many of us could learn from. I was deeply moved by the dedication and compassion displayed by RDA’s healthcare providers and instructors. Their work is a testament to the transformative power of inclusion, creating meaningful experiences for individuals on the Autism Spectrum.

During our final hour in the arena, a particularly hyperactive rider experienced a calming transformation after a fulfilling ride. The joy on his face as he lovingly stroked his horse spoke volumes. It was heartwarming to know he and his mother would drive home in peace, enriched by this shared experience.

 A Commitment to Inclusion and Transformation

RDA Japan is proud to be a member of the HETI Movement, providing invaluable services that uplift individuals within these communities. Their unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion resonates deeply with my beliefs. Being part of this transformative journey was a privilege and a profound reminder of the impact we can have on each other’s lives.

Reflecting on my time in Japan, I carry the memories and a renewed purpose in working toward inclusivity and understanding in our world.

South Korea and Japan

To my delight I had the opportunity to make a fourth visit to South Korea and Japan. I felt much more confident about traveling this time. I was less anxious about going a long way in a taxi to Asan-Si, where I would stay with Sarah and Bobby Shechner. 

As soon as I met Sarah, I went with her to sign in as a guest at Camp Humphreys Army Base in South Korea. I was looking forward to meeting soldiers who she had been supporting with Equine Assisted Activities and therapy. Since Sarah completed my CPD course for professional practitioners who wish to partner with horses to support those suffering from PTSD her Equine Assisted Service program has seen an increase in the number of soldiers and veterans requiring the service.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS) could become an official part of a PTS prevention program for soldiers on Camp Humphreys Base and different U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force bases in South Korea. 

Leaving Sarah, I went to Icheon to spend time with Professor Park (Sookie) and her amazing family. Her family all work together to support Steven’s Riding Club and Farm and her new Equine Assisted Service center called Collab. Sookie’s Center is integrated into Steven’s Riding Club. In this wonderful atmosphere, I enjoyed teaching, giving a lecture at a half-day conference, as well as judging at a horse show and riding an ex-racehorse. Her brother, who was an Olympic Three-day Event Rider in his youth, runs this riding school where he trains horses and riders, encouraging both big and small to enjoy each other. He wants his riders to stay calm, enjoy the horse and have fun.

Professor Park and I travelled to Jeonju to spend twenty-four hours with John (Tae -Woon Jung), the head of KATH (Korean Association Therapeutic Horsemanship), and their guest Angelica Trabert from Germany. In Jeonju we had the opportunity to meet Equine Studies students who were studying in the local college. Angelica gave a short talk about her life as a Para equestrian, and I participated in the conversation. 
Jeonju is an amazing town, with so much history and temples- a town from the Joseon Dynasty. This time I experienced both a Korean banquet and became a little bit pink in the face from drinking too much rice wine. After dinner we visited a special tearoom and finished the night drinking excellent tea.

Returning to Icheon and the riding club, I completed my time there teaching EAS techniques for children with Autism. Three members of this club have now received my CPD certificate, and I was proud to see it up on the wall of certificates.

Finally, during my time with Professor Park, I bought a warmer Goose down coat. I was so grateful to have this coat as the temperature was dropping each day, and I felt cold. 

From South Korea I travelled to Japan. Arriving at Haneda airport, Kigkinu Nakata, who is the President of RDA Japan met me. She took me to Yokohama where I had the opportunity to give lessons to children and adults who have severe intellectual disabilities. I also helped with relaxing work for a new horse that had recently arrived at the center. In Yokohama I met EAS practitioners and spent some time talking about the practice sessions.

While in Yokohama I visited an amazing Temple, where I could appreciate not only the ancient buildings, but also the fabulous autumn colors, and especially the red maple trees. I grew up in Britain with a red maple tree in our garden which originally had come from Japan. Now in my senior years, I can see this magnificent tree in its natural habitat. I also visited Chinatown in Yokohama.

From Yokohama I got on a bus and went to Gotemba to stay with Emiko Oto, an experienced therapeutic riding instructor who leads a team of special Olympic riders. At her apartment I enjoyed the pleasure of the hot spring water. Together we visited Okamoto Riding Stables and met with Special Olympic riders and their families, who are all remarkable people. 

In Gotemba I met Emiko’s daughter Erika and enjoyed giving her a fun horseback riding lesson on her beautiful show jumper at her stable in Gotemba.
In Gotemba everyone is under the watchful eye of Mount Fuji, a volcano dormant since the 1700’s. Mount Fuji gives you the feeling that ancestors from past dynasties are resting there, waiting to pop out and give advice. In the sunlight it is a magical mountain and is a symbol of Japan. 

I have had three weeks of meeting incredible people, drinking a bit too much wine, and eating wonderful food. I feel so blessed that I have been able to have this experience and I know that it is all because of the horse.

Moral Injury by Dr. Anna Harwood-Gross

Asian Tour – Japan

Dear Friends,

So much has happened this summer that I forgot to tell you about the last leg of my Asian tour to Japan! It was very exciting for me to visit Japan again. This time I landed in Tokyo. 

My first visit to Japan  was in 1995  after the Earthquake in Kobe. I traveled to Japan with the late  Jonquil Solt, OBE,  and Inger Bryant to see if we could help Japanese challenged and disabled adults enjoy what is now known as para equestrian sport. This memorable visit gave me  my first impression of Japan and was the first time I met  Mr. Mickey, a pioneer of para equestrianism in Japan whose enthusiasm pushed the sport forward. 

In 2009 I went to Japan, visiting Kikouen on the the Island of Fukuoka. I stayed at the center called Kikouen, a most beautiful center that was helping people who are intellectually impaired to enjoy a full and productive life. I spent a week giving lectures and soaking up the incredible atmosphere of this extraordinary place. 

Now in 2023 I arrived in Tokyo to be met by Emiko Oto, a friend who I had not seen for several years. The minute I saw her I recognized her, and was so happy to see her. 

Emiko drove for two plus hours to somewhere near Otomoto where we stayed.  It is a beautiful hot spring area under the eye of Mount Fuji.

The next day we went to Otomoto, which is a beautiful riding center that is on a small hillside, just above the village houses. I was given a horse to ride, which made me very happy. I toured the area on the horse, at first walking along the road of the village, then up a small hill to look at the amazing view of the mountain.

Afterwards Emiko introduced me to  intellectually impaired riders at the riding center, some of whom would be competing in the summer at the Special Olympics in Germany.  I felt at home and quickly  became involved.  It was inspiring to  teach these students.  We had enormous fun putting a saddle and bridle on a horse, and then enjoying  leading with some groundwork. In the amazing surroundings of the riding center, I gave the staff some lectures about Traumatic Brain Injury, and Post Trauma. 

The next leg of my journey took me to Tokyo where I provided  a seminar to practitioners who are working for RDA in Japan. I was welcomed by their president  Kiginu Nakata and then gave my lectures, “How Horses Can Help People Who Are Post-Trauma ”. It was very moving to be with  people who all recognized that horses had a profound effect upon healing and wanted to know more about the topic of trauma. My short stay in Japan was a wonderful experience. Riding under the watchful eye of  Mount Fuji was amazing. The weather was perfect, and the often  shy mountain  was in full view. I was honored to be able to participate in an afternoon Tea Ceremony at the home of Kiginu Nakata. And finally, it was extremely moving for me to watch Emiko Oto prepare intellectually impaired riders for their international dressage competition in Germany.   Japan is an amazing place, and I am looking forward to returning in November. 

Arriving in Taiwan

As I left the plane the hot air and high humidity hit me. It was like arriving in Israel, and immediately you feel overdressed coming from a cooler country as all one needs is a T-shirt and comfortable clothing.  The last time I visited Taiwan was for a HETI Conference. I think this was my fourth visit and I felt at home. I also knew the person who was coming to meet me for many years. She had also visited Israel some years ago.

From the airport we traveled to a small town that was famous for its hot spring water,  baths, and wonderful valley where the hot water ran constantly, and a relaxing atmosphere.  Beitou is a town on the outskirts of Taipei. The island of Taiwan sits on a collision zone between two tectonic plates. As a result, it has one of the highest concentrations of thermal hot springs in the world.  In fact, there are at least 100 major hot springs. Taiwanese people had always appreciated their hot springs, but it was the Japanese that developed Beitou and other spa resorts.  I didn’t have the courage to publicly bathe with no clothes on, so I chose to bathe in the amazing hot spring water in the privacy of my hotel room.

The next day I traveled with Uta Rindfleisch-Wu to the Zhongzheng district. To reach this mountainous region we went in a cable car over the mountains till we finally reached our destination.  Uta led the way as we walked up steep paths and steps at the sides of the tea plantation. We could see towns in the distance, even at one time the 101 Tower. There were magnificent temples dotted across the landscape. It was extremely peaceful.  We had a fish and vegetable lunch on the mountain at about 3,000 meters.

 

 

Returning to ground level again we traveled to the riding center in the Longtan district where we saw the horses and equipment and set up for the following day where I was going to work. The next day I began my workshop. The days were long as we had a lot to do in a short time. Half the time we spent in the classroom and half outside in the arena practicing. The topics included sensory integration, emotions, traumatic brain injury, and  post trauma. The students practiced putting bridles, saddles, grooming, leading and side walking. We did everything  together and then spent time afterwards evaluating our work and reflecting upon what happened while partnering with the horses. 

It was tremendously hot, 36.5 Celsius, but I was not bothered by this heat, mainly because the group of students were so enthusiastic, and it felt so good absorbing their positive vibes. Uta did most of the interpreting from English to Taiwanese, and when things got difficult there was always someone around to help.  Our days always ended in the same way, reflecting upon ourselves, work, and the horses. It was incredible  to spend time in this  friendship circle that was built from both humans and horses.

Since returning from Taiwan, I have had a zoom meeting with the students who are asking for answers to many more questions. 

When the course finished, I visited the village of Jioufen which is a mountain town in northeastern Taiwan, east of Taipei. It’s known for the narrow alleyways of its old town, packed with teahouses, street-food shacks, and souvenir shops. Near central Old Street is the Shengping Theater, established in the 1900s and since restored. Close by, the Gold Mine Museum traces the town’s history as a mining hub during the Japanese-era gold rush. On my travels I have learned that street food is a must. Yes, it’s great to go to a good restaurant, but it’s also important to taste something that is unique to the place one is visiting. In Jioufen, I was lucky there was a Vegan version of Ah Zhu Peanut Ice Cream Roll which was sold in one of the most famous stalls on Jioufen Old Street. 

I finished this stay in Taipei where I visited the Night Market, then used the Metro to see the central part of the city. Traveling on the Metro felt easy as it sparked memories of traveling on the London Underground.

taiwan-2023-student-leading2
taiwan-2023-student-leading

Taiwan made me feel comfortable, the students enthusiasm and good will are feelings that I will keep with me forever.  The Therapeutic Riding Instructor students with whom I was privileged to work embraced knowledge building. A synthesis of ideas became their common goals, group discussions, and synthesis of ideas. It was  a joy to expand their experience.

Taiwan recharged my batteries, and made me ready for the last leg of my journey.

Japan.

Journey to South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan (Part 1)

On March 27th, I set off on a journey to South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan.

My plan for this three-country journey was to spend time passing on my knowledge and experience working with clients with PTSD and other challenging disabilities, meet old friends, and see the countryside.

My starting point was in the Republic of Korea, at the Humphreys US Army Base in the district of Asan-si Chungcheongnam-do where I provide a hundred-hour Post Graduate Course for Professionals: Equine Assisted Activities and/or Therapy (EAA/T) for Individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at Grace Stables owned by Sarah Shechner. Soldiers with PTSD from the base were invited to be participants (clients) in the course.

I was pleased to present this course in a country where Korean modern culture still has strong ties to the past. Korea is a country steeped in ancient history that connects to the horse. Korean culture has always viewed the horse as not merely a means of transportation, but as a representation of the authority and divinity of the state and/or the ruler. In the Joseon Dynasty, the horse fulfilled a range of purposes in state or royal ceremonies. In royal processions, it demonstrated the authority and dignity of the king. The horse, a symbol of status, was used as a means of transportation when they were alive. After death, their mane was used to make traditional hats, their skin was used to make shoes and their tendons were used to make bows. Horses were also recognized as being guides for the soul.

There were five Korean and American candidates who participated in the course providing an atmosphere of erudite learning. For five days using my PowerPoints text, all candidates enthusiastically worked together, brainstorming, sharing ideas and creating and inventing new ones. We all enjoyed a week of reflective learning. Through these daily discussions, authentic practice, participant (client) feedback and candidate evaluation both candidates and participants made enormous progress.

Testimonial of client participant
My mind is clear, the cloud of anxiety is off my shoulders, everything is easier. With the horse, and the company of other people being vulnerable, I felt safe. Aware, and yet unaware of what was happening, I connected with the horse in a way I have not connected with animals in a long time. For the first time in my life, I fully acknowledged the initial trauma and came to peace with it. On the second day, my boys were snuggled next to me, and I embraced them with a joy and empathy that I have not felt with them before, that has been inaccessible. On the third day, on my way to the barn, I reflected on how much I loved it and looked forward to seeing my beautiful horse. Then I softly smiled as I recalled the horse was previously abused and still, I find him beautiful, and then for the first time I told myself, that I too am beautiful and loved.
I never could have imagined that I would finally come to peace, could ever feel this much peace, and that it would be through connection with Chewbee. I have dedicated many volunteer hours to serving the community in various ways, particularly after the trauma and now I understand I should have, and going forward must continue to take care of myself first.

 

Candidates are continuing to work on their ideas before we meet again in June for another week of study, case study reporting and authentic practice. In total it will be a hundred-hour course.

To summarize, this Post Graduate Course for Professionals: Equine Assisted Activities and/or Therapy (EAA/T) for Individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in South Korea has shown that participant progress (Clients with PTSD) was exceptional when they could come to the therapeutic riding center each day of the week. During that time, it was also mind blowing to watch five people from the Humphreys US Army Base come together, bond with horses, find themselves and build new friendships of trust and caring with horses and candidates. I have worked since 1982 with veterans and this was one of the most productive and genuine courses I have ever given.

Korea is an interesting country with many cultural sites and places to visit. This was my second time, which meant that I gave time to travel. The food is outstanding, but I wanted to see more of its past, and the countryside.

I arrived when all the cherry blossoms were bursting into bloom. King cherry blossom trees produce huge bows of heavy and large blossoms, and long branches in some cases reaching the ground. In the morning mountain air, they exude a fragrant scent of lilacs, rose magnolias and almond blossoms. This phenomenon can last as few as three days, because the rain drenching the blossom, causes it to quickly fall allowing new green spring leaves to appear.

After the course, I went with Sarah on a train ride to Busan. Traveling first class we sat in armchairs watching the countryside race by. We were traveling on a bullet train at 315 kilometers an hour to Busan. It was a fantastic trip, and I remember feeling the warmth inside me build up as I knew I was going to see something special.

Busan, is the largest port in South Korea, has a famous fish market and is a place for a sunshine beach holiday. Booking in for two nights, we explored the streets and dined in an incredible fish restaurant, where the chef excelled himself with his exquisite courses. After a good night’s sleep, we set off the next day on a thirteen-hour trip up into the mountains. The views were amazing, and again the cherry blossoms were having a party. We visited temples, the village of Yang Dong, and other places where we tried local street foods, experienced customs, and memorabilia.

Soaking up the atmosphere of the Korean countryside, our long trip included sundown. The late afternoon and evening provided a special treat. For many years I have been writing about the human-horse bond, reading books about it, and visiting museums in my desire to understand why we have such a strong connection to horses. I have always wanted to visit the burial mounds seen across Euro Asia, and especially the well-known tomb in Pazyryk Russia where nomadic Scythians who were the first horseman were buried. Scythian Princes chose to be buried with their revered horses and even servants. The princes’ favorite horses were killed, covered in gold jewelry ready to travel with them to higher places in the next life. In Korea I visited Cheonmachong, a sky horse tomb. This tomb was built in the style of Silla and was said to follow the pattern of a Scytho-Iranian tomb in Pazyryk, Russia. It was amazing to see gold jewelry that archaeologists had found and was made for the prince’s horses.

Afterwards, and it was now dark, we arrived at Gyeongju, Donggung Palace, Wolji-Pond, Anapji. King Munmu from the Silla dynasty had built this palace in 54BCE for rest and peace in between the times when he was at war. He was one of the two kings in Korean history that achieved unification, something that is sought after till today. Today, Donggung Palace is the only restored remains of the original palace which was destroyed by the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392).

Sarah and I were lucky as we missed the huge crowds that are known to visit this palace, so we enjoyed its magnificence and night peace. Standing at the far side of the lake looking back at the flood lit palace, my imagination allowed me to think of King Munmu, and the original palace he had built to suit his glorious lifestyle. He had chosen a theme for his home. The buildings and surrounds had shapes and colors that connected to his love of water. The gardens, trees and flowers appeared to have equal parts and value. It was like a bouquet of flowers. King Mumu maintained the overall look of his arrangement, by whom he invited to Donggung Palace.

Next, I went to Taiwan 

Hello from Seoul, South Korea (Part 2)

The second part of my visit to Korea was also exceptional. After I finished with my workshops at the KATH Association symposium held at the Korean Racing Authority, I decided to step out and see some of the amazing historical sights of Seoul.  I joined a group tour and visited Palaces and Temples as well as the famous North Tower.  I wished I had gone to the North Tower with a partner as it would have been real fun and probably very romantic to have left a love lock. Seoul has several central locations, each with a different feel. Some reminded me of Manhattan, New York. When I was in Myeongdong district it reminded me of Soho, and then in the Gangnam district it felt more like the Upper East Side. Standing high up on the North Tower, Seoul was a sprawling city with many suburbs, traffic jammed highways and hard working people. Still, it was special for me to walk in the cold Autumn air around the city and go into Coffee and Cake Cafes where I saw young people enjoying conversation and experiencing Seoul city life.

After my sightseeing tour, I was invited  to the countryside around the city of  Incheon and spent time with Dr. Park and her son. Dr Park, an amazing lady with her many academic accolades, and her son, a therapist, let me have a peep at some traditional Korean culture. From a typical Korean lunch, to driving and walking next to farmland as well as visiting a riding center, I saw the best rice fields of Korea and how traditional Kimchi is made, and what was the spirit of therapeutic riding in Korea. 

Then I met Sarah and Bobby Shechner-Mcknight who had invited me to stay at their home while I gave a workshop at the US Humphreys Armed Forces Base in Korea.  Sarah had organized the workshop and live demonstration that I presented for soldiers and their families on the Base and at her stables, Grace Stables.  Military families were interested in knowing more about EAA/T and how it could help those suffering from symptoms of post traumatic stress (PTS). The workshop, discussions and demonstration were very successful. All the events were filmed and recorded. Our demonstration afternoon finished in the freezing cold, minus 10 celsius and with a generous barbeque. Sarah’s support for her event was sponsored by private donations, the American Red Cross and the Wounded Warriors Foundation.

With Sarah, I experienced only Korean food. She took me to local restaurants, and an open market where we bought delicious fish and vegetables for our evening meals. Life in smaller towns is different to Seoul, more old fashioned, contained and still content with past practices and established conventions of living. 

We went by car to the town of Jeonju where we stayed the night in the remarkable ancient village.  Sarah introduced me to Jeonju’s best local food, and the experience of walking around the old town in traditional clothing. I slept on a futon on the floor and woke up creaking like an old door, but that soon wore off as I enjoyed my outdoor breakfast in the ancient village. My experience in Jeonju, dressing up and sleeping in an ancient village hundreds of years old made me feel for a moment that I was actually living in the Joseon period. 

My trip to the Republic of Korea was more than memorable. The good wishes and good will of all the people I met at the KATH symposium and at the Humphrey US Army Base was a gift that will last for a lifetime and I look forward to returning there soon.

Hello from Seoul, South Korea (Part 1)