Brown proud to be part of REINS

Being that equines have always held a special place in Diane Brown’s heart, it was only natural that she had a calling to volunteer at REINS (Riding Emphasizing Individual Needs and Strengths) Therapeutic Horsemanship Program.

“All my life, I have had and loved horses,” said Brown.

Throughout the years, whenever she saddled up, she found herself doing all types of riding. Be it trail riding, jumping fences or riding English, Brown has adored it all.

“At this point in my life, I enjoy trail riding, and here in Fallbrook, we have many incredible places to ride,” she said.

One thing that Brown loves most about horses, besides their beauty, is the bond that can be created between them and humans.

“Horses trust us to do right by them; we have an obligation to them,” she explained. “You never want to betray the trust of something so vulnerable.”

Brown also boasts how therapeutic horses have been for her throughout the years, including now.

“At my age, I feel stiff and I ache, but when I get on my horse, every ache goes away,” she said.

The therapy Brown receives from horses is on many levels. Horses have perpetually brought her peace, she says, clarifying that this comes from being one with nature.

Brown can see these same physical benefits apply to riders at REINS.

At this nonprofit center, disabled children and adults can participate in a therapeutic riding program.

Riding horseback gives these special riders therapy in three areas: physical, mental and emotional.

For Brown, volunteering at REINS is a true gift. In fact, it’s an honor, she says.

“REINS is a special place,” stated Brown. “Through my own eyes, I have seen kids come here and gain confidence. Their anxiety disappears and they smile a lot.”

Another thing that has thoroughly impressed Brown is the physical aspect of the horsemanship program.

Many of the children, she explained, are in wheelchairs or have challenges with muscular strength. However, once these children start riding, things miraculously change.

“I see their little legs dropping and they start to relax; the ride really gives these kids a certain sense of power knowing that they can communicate with the horse,” she said.

The confidence on the children’s faces is evident, says Brown, as these wonderful horses gently respond to the commands of their rider.

Brown volunteers at REINS once a week. Her day is filled with grooming and tacking horses and leading horses at the direction of the instructor.

“We have contact with the children during the lesson; at least four people are involved during this time,” Brown said. Conducting a REINS lesson takes a lot of people power.

Brown believes her passion and her confidence around horses is helpful to REINS. She is able to give assurance to both the horse and the rider.

“And I really enjoy the kids,” she added. “I get my kid-fix here.”

While volunteering at REINS, Brown says she has learned a lesson in humility: “I’ve learned the things that I don’t know, and at my age, I still have things that need to be taught to me.”

For more information about REINS, including volunteering, log on to http://www.reinsprogram.org or call (760) 731-9168.