Fall 2021

New Resor t Programs Use Horsepower to Heal B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S C armel Valley Ranch unveiled a new Equine Experiences menu this summer, introduc- ing activities that help guests explore emotions, relieve stress and rediscover joy. The programs take place on the resort’s 500-acre campus in the Santa Lucia foothills. Dr. Rob Magnelli, a clinical psychologist with nearly two decades of experience in equine-as- sisted therapy, growth and learning, developed the resort programs with his wife Nancy, a psychiatric nurse. He believes that horses offer a model for joy and well-being. The social, perceptive animals live in the present, staying attuned to their envi- ronment and reading the emotions of others. “Horses respond to our nonverbal communi- cation,” says Magnelli. “When I’m working with someone, I can look at the horse and see what’s happening inside that person. Horses give feed- back without judgment.” Whether completing challenges or sim- ply petting and feeding an animal, program TEVXMGMTERXW FYMPH GSR½HIRGI VIWMPMIRGI ERH self-awareness. “Horses help us discover our best selves. Working with a 1,200- or 1,500-pound horse can work wonders for the soul and help people develop their own strength,” says Magnelli. He enjoys watching guests relax and embrace positivity after a challenging year. “It’s about having a great time, but also going home with experiences that you’ll remember and utilize for a lifetime,” Magnelli says. For more information and reservations, please call 855/687-7262 or visit carmelvalleyranch.com. SHORT CUTS NEIGHBORS Nancy and Rob Magnelli, a psychiatric nurse and a clinical psychologist, respectively, utilize their extensive backgrounds to provide therapeutic equine experiences. 68 ' % 6 1 ) 0 1 % + % > - 2 ) ˆ * % 0 0 Photo: Marc Howard