Life coach uses 'horse whispering'

"I get by with a little help from my friends..." These words from a Beatles song could well sum up the philosophy of "life coaches," people who specialize in helping others realize their potential, improve relationships and become better leaders. Life coaches don't offer therapy, and they focus on what's to come, not what's

been.

There's a whole toolbox of techniques to use, but one of the more unusual integrates the concept of "horse whispering" into a coaching session. Koelle Simpson, a young woman from Scottsdale, Arizona, is coming to Sisters Country on May 13-14 to conduct a workshop called "Learning to Lead From the Inside Out." It will be held at Long Hollow Ranch, located on Holmes Road.

"This workshop is for any individual who's feeling frustrated and trapped in life and wanting to understand how they can be empowered to lead their (life) experience," said Simpson.

According to Simpson, many people feel like victims of circumstance. With the horses, they start to realize how powerful they can be at creating and leading situations. Or not. The horses give immediate feedback so participants can quickly see the dynamics of their non-verbal communication unfold. When it all comes together, the effect is tangible and visible.

Once a participant gains the awareness necessary to connect with the horse, the coaching part comes into play, said Simpson. There is an internal dialog going on all the time, directing one's thoughts about life and self, and often it needs to be dissolved before heading in a new direction.

While the workshop uses horses, no riding is involved and one doesn't need to know anything about working with equines. It's still an active workshop though. "The whole thing is very experiential, with lots of energy and non-verbal stuff," said Simpson.

She noted that participants often form close bonds over the two days and that informal networks are

created.

For more information on Koelle Simpson and to register, go to http://www.koelleinc.com.