Annalize and I stayed in the Stable House at Kaapsehoop Horsetrails some weekends ago and yes – I think it is time to go back there.
This is a place where they "join" the horse - they do not "break them in" and it is a phenomenal process to watch. It is gentle and non-egotistical.
The rustic-ness of the place is a demonstration of mindfulness in its most subtle form. Junk in any shape and form, suddenly becomes pieces of value – practical pieces of art and throughout the establishment every piece fits as if someone somewhere gave some serious thought about its placement and influence it will have on the viewer’s emotional state.
The Stable House where we stayed is simple and adequately furnished. The only element lacking, is a fireplace. The simplicity is wabi-sabi by nature and it allows for contemplation, not just about all the stuff we own but also its true practical value. We cannot take it with us when we pass over which begs the question – why the hell do I have it? Do I need it for practical reasons or just to beautify my space – (nothing inherently wrong with the latter)?
And then – if we are supposed to live a life motivated and supported by inner peace and beauty – then why has the external become such a powerful influence on our lives?
We went for a long walk along the escarpment on the Saturday morning and then followed some horse paths through the plantations on our return to the village – half way stopping for a rest and to enjoy a fresh fruit snack. And whilst we sat there among the trees, nature wrapped us with gratitude and beauty – and as our senses became slightly more attuned to her presence, our bodies relaxed to the healing quietness of what was …
It is during such moments – in physical contact with mother earth – that the soul expresses itself within the inner realms of ones beingness and you relax – healing and rest happens within the moment – this moment – now – nature’s perfume infuses one and it stays within your DNA and every now and then – after ones return to the business of being busy, one can, in one brief moment, return to this place for a minor service to your system.
During midday I walked among the horses – some were grazing and others sleeping? On our next visit it is my intention to in fact follow them out early morning and stay with them throughout the day till they return late afternoon. I believe it will offer wonderful photo opportunities. I respectfully kept my distance at this time but one horse walked over and allowed me to touch and talk.
Sunday morning was seriously chilly and we decided not to go for another walk instead we joined Mike Kay at the Gypsey Caravan. Mike is an encyclopaedia of local stories – ex business owner/travel guide/champion jockey and horse breeder/chef and then some. We chatted and also watched while Mariska was working with a horse in the circle. It was fascinating – quiet – gentle and it gave new meaning to the concept of breaking-in horses. A teacher by trade, but one who has found her calling by working with horses.
Horse Trails was founded by Christo Germishuys in 1994 and he has access to 17 000 hectares of Berlin forestry plantations. Christo has worked with and trained horses for more than 30 years. Mariska and Mike confirmed that although they consider themselves more than just well-versed with this environment – to watch Christo work with a horse or horses is something to behold. Christo will, without exception, come and greet every horse in person every morning – it is like a sacred ritual - but then again – with many exceptional experiences with horses – some that proved lifesaving – one can only but admire and respect his rare gift and ability to work with and “join” the wildest among them.
There is much more to say – if that is what you prefer. For us, it was about the energy of this place and simply observing it is action. The people – they are soul people – their religion, as Christo put it in a book about his life, is nature – and with this I conclude.
An ancient people - referred to as the Essene’s – also encourage one to take your lessons from nature – not from the written word because they believe that the written word is dead. Nature is alive – God is nature – and we should take our lessons from that which/who is alive.
Visit www.horsebacktrails.co.za for more info and do add staying there to your wish list.
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