In this episode, Avi speaks with Cathy Woods, a lifelong yogini, equestrian, and creator of "Body, Mind, Equine," a program that blends yoga and horsemanship. Cathy shares how yoga principles—breath, body awareness, and mindfulness—enhance the rider’s connection with their horse, improving communication and overall experience in the saddle. She discusses the deeper parallels between yoga and riding, emphasizing presence, energy awareness, and mutual trust. Whether you're a yogi, an equestrian, or simply interested in mindful movement, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of these two disciplines.

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A longtime yogini, horsewoman, author, yoga teacher, international retreat leader, creator of Body, Mind, EquineTM, and a pioneer in focusing on equestrian wellness and mindfulness in horsemanship

Cathy aims to impart a practical approach to authentic yoga and mindful horsemanship, making it accessible to everyone regardless of what that looks like for the individual. She’s passionate about supporting equestrians in their wellness journey, promoting a more enriched and skillful life.

Her yogic journey naturally transpired as a child. Having nurtured that path and lifestyle for many years, she began leading programs in 1991. Cathy enjoys combining and sharing her passions of yoga, horses, travel, and women’s empowerment in creative ways and finds great joy in helping people handcraft their lives and their horsemanship

Her programs have been offered at distinguished locations such as The Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, Yogaville Ashram, and Mount Madonna Center. On the equine front, Cathy has partnered with amazing venues such as Equitana, Internation Liberty Horsemanship Association, Equine Affaire, Warwick Schillers Journey on Summit, Tryon International Equestrian Center, and C Lazy U Ranch, to name a few. She also shares her work through her book Yoga for Riders, published by Horseandriderbooks, and is currently working on a second book titled, Riding Change. Additionally, Cathy writes for publications such as Horse Illustrated, Yoga + Life Magazine, and others. She’s been featured in Forbes, Yoga Digest, Horse and Rider Magazine, and additional publications. A series of her online courses can be found on WeHorse.

Cathy’s an avid equine enthusiast and longtime backcountry trail rider who loves exploring the natural world from the back of a horse. She remains passionate and dedicated to sharing authentic yoga and how it enhances life and horsemanship!

Find out more at: www.cathywoodsyoga.com

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