Little Springs Farm

11/10/2025

This is what the world needs more of, especially right now!
Thank you Missy High, for your kindness and generosity.
Our therapy cats adore you. 😻

11/08/2025

Even foggy mornings can be beautiful when horses are in view.

11/06/2025

Thank you, Pecan Creek, for this beautiful example of what might transpire during a Trauma Focused Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy session.
It’s not magic.
It’s not unicorns and rainbows.
It’s all about a certified/trained Natural Lifemanship therapy team (Mental Health Professional and Equine Professional) and their ability to offer co-regulation, attunement and support.
Pecan Creek Ranch
The Natural Lifemanship Institute

The client’s horse stands on top of her, wedging the client between her horse and the gate.

Team member, “ How are you feeling with your horse standing so close to you?”

Client, “It’s fine.”

Team member, “I’m clarifying, it’s fine that she is standing so close, or you are fine with her standing so close?”

“Both,” the client laughs.

Team member, “If you needed to, could you move away?”

The client looks around at her predicament.

Client smiles, “I could climb the gate.”

Team member, “You could. Would you feel comfortable with that solution?”

The client semi-shrugs.

Team member, “Seems like a part of you isn’t too comfortable with that solution.”

Client, “It will be fine.”

It appears to the team that the client is engaging in minimizing how she truly feels.

Team member, “Let’s pretend for a moment that you don’t want to climb the gate. What other options do you have?”

The client doesn't answer. It is possible the client sees no other options.

Team member asks more directly, “Is that the only option you see?”

Client, “Maybe I could ask her to back up a smudge.”

The client’s face flushes, and her breathing becomes shallow.

The team notices the change. They are not sure what contributed to the changes in the client’s body, so one team member walks toward the client and says, “Is it okay if I come stand with you?”

The client nods that it is okay. Team member, “I am just going to stand here and support you.” Team member takes slow, deep breaths, using their body to help regulate the client.

The client whispers, “The moment I think about asking for more space, I feel scared that she will leave me.”

Team notices the client’s body tightening, and the client seems a little unsteady on their feet.

The thought of being left is activating this client’s nervous system. More than likely, this is a very old fear, originating from childhood when the threat of being left was life-threatening.

Team member, “I can see that is an uncomfortable idea. If it is okay with you, I could be here with you and we could ask her together for this much room.” (Team member puts fingers a couple of inches apart)

The team needs to balance supporting the client, helping them regulate, and changing their pattern of being fine with whatever behavior the horse wants to do.

11/02/2025

Anne Shirley said, “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers” but here’s what it means to me;

The stunning contrast of yellow and red leaves against an azure sky.

The nostalgic aroma of my neighbor’s wood stove, the rummescent damp leaves piling up outside my back door.
Pumpkin Everything.
Chai tea.

The feel of pine needles and moss under my boots, the warmth of thick sweaters, snuggly plaid flannel shirts, and my beat up old Carhartt. Horse hides growing thicker. Crisp air on my cheeks.

The anticipation of elk chili and cornbread baked in a cast iron skillet. Home made tomato bisque. Apple pie. My favorite molasses cookies, made from Grandma Martin’s recipe.
Pajamas at 5pm.

The promise of shorter days, longer nights. The stack of books that awaits. Time slowing down, and blissful hibernation.




❤️

10/27/2025

10/07/2025

Garden Spot Pathways career coaching students visited the farm to explore various equine careers. We heard from Janelle Ott; Bethany Christian Services social worker, and had a barrel racing and bodywork demo with Addison Zimmerman.

“To run with horses means we’re going to live fully alive.”
-Todd Pierce

Today was a fully immersive experience, and we were indeed, FULLY alive, and connected with ourselves and those around us!

10/06/2025

Today, we celebrated a biggie as Kelly Zimmerman hit the big 5-0 at the beautiful Ironstone Ranch at Stone Gables Estate. Since LSF doesn't offer trail rides, we took the reins and set off to explore this local riding stable. Whether you're a rodeo rockstar or a newbie, don't sweat it - these serene horses will keep you safe. Happy trails Kelly Youndt Zimmerman, and a huge thank you for your tireless efforts to keep our beloved critters happy and healthy!