With the Thanksgiving weekend behind us, I have been pondering what makes me feel grateful. One of the highlights, which has remained constant over the years, is the way in which my life has been influenced and shaped by horses. Years ago, following a trip to the South of France to meet and photograph a special herd, everything changed for me, and my soul knew it connected with something purposeful. I promised myself then to become a voice for these majestic animals, in my own humble way, by connecting their magic with the world through my photographs and storytelling.
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Over time, I have also come to experience amazing, mystical moments of healing while surrounded by the energy of horses, and my understanding has expanded, it is how I learned about Patrick Buffalo and his ‘Manaciso Healing with Horses’ program.
My heart has always felt drawn to the indigenous cultures, their deep connection to and reverence for everything around them, and their ability to merge with the spirit of the horse. I approached Patrick enthusiastically, and, following a very easy-flowing conversation, I decided to visit him on his land during my work trip to Alberta. His invitation sunk deep: “Come to see what we do here.” I knew this was not going to be an ordinary journey.
I had the privilege to spend a few memorable days at Patrick’s farm, where I was allowed to just be, wander amongst the horses, feel the land, connect with myself, and witness my soul light up. One morning, I even ‘happened upon’ a filly being born, as I was just passing by the paddock. It truly was a matter of seconds, and I immediately knew that was no coincidence.
I took it as a powerful reminder to trust my life, my being exactly where I was supposed to be, at the right time. I got to sit there in awe with the mare and her fresh baby, whose soft, wet coat I was able to touch and imprint. Time stood still, and I felt an immense amount of love take over my being
Patrick and his son, Mason, reaffirmed what I was already feeling and added this was quite an honour I was offered by Spirit. Patrick told me so many powerful stories, for which I would need pages, but one of his dreams stood out to me: to build a classroom connected to an arena, where his horses could step up by choice and join up with the people coming to learn and heal. I was privileged to be a witness to the magical way in which Patrick delivers his knowledge, with his sharp mind, incredible wit, and palpable love for his fellow humans. Just on the other side of the sliding doors, now in place, I could hear the horses’ soothing sounds as they were waiting and getting ready for the human encounter.
Camera in hand, I was honoured to feel through and capture moments of pure connection and surrender to Horse Spirit, an invitation Patrick knows so well to guide people towards.
I witnessed tears and also big smiles emerging on people’s faces, who were leaving the experience with a new sense of lightness in their beings. I look forward to joining up with Patrick and his herd again, in whichever way I will be guided. The Manaciso medicine keeps being released into my own soul every single day. All I need is to connect to it.
Article Written by Manuela Stefan
About Manuela Stefan
Manuela Stefan is a Canadian/Romanian photographer with a passion for travel and horse culture. Her extensive equine collection came to life as a result of her love and admirations for these animals, who have brought joy, inspiration, and healing to her soul.
Manuela also leads horse-inspired retreats for women in Ontario and abroad.
Her equine work can be found here
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- Website: www.gracefulhorses.com
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