The Tao of Equus: A Woman's Journey of Healing and Transformation through the Way of the Horse Paperback – June 1, 2007

Very interesting read about a woman's journey with horses that continued to evolve into unconventional methods to re-train problem horses and eventually equine therapy/mental health. What is so interesting is that the field of equine therapy was relatively new at the time she started. Through observation and experience she became a pioneer in the field. Acknowledging intuitive communication with horses has opened the door for equestrians to admit they have had these same type of experiences too. Since this book was originally published the mental health community has mostly embraced or at least become intrigued with using equine facilitated therapy with clients. We are always learning in everything we do but it takes a keen observer to document in a methodical way so experiences/concepts can be repeated and Kohanov has accomplished that. This book is groundbreaking in the field of EFT, and equestrian training emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and the intelligence of horses as teachers. In the round pen a horse will respond to our energy in a way that reflects our strengths and weaknesses. As someone with very little horse experience I found this book intriguing, sparking a desire to learn more about therapy with horses as partners and more about horses in general.

This is one of my favorite books of all time. Kohanov truly vibes with horses and is articulate and brilliant enough to narrate the life-changing journey she has taken with them. Her story begins with an injury that leads to developing an on-the-ground relationship with her mare, Rasa. It's so simple as to be obvious, but too many horse owners/riders barely interact with their horses out of the saddle, despite this being where the relationship is built and the bonding occurs. Kohanov spends days, months, years just being with her horses, "doing nothing." The zen "nothing" that is everything. I have learned so much about being attuned to horse nuances, about being receptive and non-aggressive, from reading her book. Kohanov's philosophy is one of establishing rapport, not beating into submission, and it is the ONLY one any worker with horses should adopt..I've read this twice now and know I will read it again. She has a highly developed understanding of equines and uses that understanding to heal horses as well as humans. Her approach is practical and inspiring. If you love horses, buy this book and read it more than once.

Wish I knew then what I know now; I tried to read this book five years ago and didn't make it 25 pages. Now I can't put it down. Almost done and it has been a wonderful journey, of both smiles and sobs. It isn't for everyone, but if you are ready, it will speak to your heart. It did mine.P.S. During the time I was reading the book, my pregnant mare bit me on the thigh HARD while I was petting her stomach! I pet her and scratch her every night, from front to back, so why did she bite me? In fifty years of horses, I have never been bitten by a horse! Ouch-what a bruise. She is not a happy mare but she is the leader of the 17 horse herd. So the next day I limped out to the barn and asked her why she is so angry that she bit me. She keeps looking at her abdomen when I ask her the question. So I will keep you posted once the vet checks her out, because obviously she is trying to tell me something. But did she have to bite me? I am disappointed that she did not think I was a better listener.

I was so blown away by this author I purchased the hardcover and kindle versions of all her books! I read a lot and this book is by far the best mix of journalism, spirituality, the meaning behind myths and legends, scientific and personal research and years of working with horses. She creates and explaines this fantastical reality that enables us to see into and connect with the soul of each individual horse and what they can teach us from their point of view. It recently has been proven by science 2012 and signed by Stephen Hawking that all animals are sentient beings...they are no different from us as far as evolvement and brainpower they just see things differently. She discovered this long ago and has implemented practical ways to connect with horses and learn from them. If you are a horse owner or lover of horses...if you love deeply profound spiritual books backed up by practical application or if you are a top therapist that needs new methods to reach patients or if you are just curious by nature and love animals....you will not be dissapointed with this fascinating, enlightening book! Can't wait for her new book to come out next month!

Though I grew up around horses and going to the race track ( my uncle's raised and raced horses) I never had the desire to own a horse of my own or even take riding lessons. This book ended up on my reading list because of a series of dreams, coincidences and coaching over the last 10 months.I was surprised at how much the stories resonated with my life experiences.

I didn't catch that it was a second hand book I purchased. It's sticky on the back with a stain of some content also on the back & 1st page. It also has hand notes written in ink in the book. Disappointing.

Because of an unforgettable “join up” experience when I was first learning to ride I was intrigued by the ability to the author to explain the depth and parallels of non verbal communication with a horse. I’m Inspired to develop a equine therapy facility for trauma victims and handicapped kids.

My Holistc horse veterinarians suggested I read this to prep for healing work with rescue horses. She really helps people understand the magnitude of how thoughtful we need to be while interacting with such wise ones. She really nails the concept of personal responsibility and ethics around rescuing. While people are well meaning, unless you have financial means, a safe space and time to help then it’s best not to rescue but rather find another option. I see this all the time at our rescue.

Ooh how to review this book..I found it a hard read but a very compelling one that I kept on reading.. I found some of the matter quite emotionally upsetting..maybe I have inner traumas to let go of ..so much in this book resonated with me. I will read the book again as there is so much to digest and bring to an understanding.Its a deep book but one I think will be forever in my memory. Did I enjoy it im not sure how to categorise it it made me think..it made me sad..I'm glad I read it im still pondering parts of it..so yes buy the book take time to digest it.

A marvellous and enlightning book, connecting author's intuitions with traditional stories and wisdom in an unconventional and surprising manner. I enjoy every word and grateful cor quotes,too. I will read much more on these arguments, but especially I will ride more and more!

I don't have anything to say it was as good as new 5 star

For anyone questing an alternative journey with horses beyond doing, this book is a bible - thoroughly researched and exquisitely written, I will shortly be reading it all over again!

A life saver. Everyone needs to read this. Linda is amazing, her insights are invaluable and her experience and advice will carry you through in the darkest of moments. I was discouraged when reading at the beginning, felt that there wasn't structure to carry out her arguments cohesively, but once you go past the first 2 chapters everything starts to tie up. This book is an overview. If some of the ideas seem complex or hard to breakdown, take your time and come back to it.I've started tagging pages that I want to return to and I find inspiring. Enjoy!