Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Gould

Hi Taylor, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My journey into equine wellness and holistic healing began with a personal and traumatic experience. After enduring the heart-wrenching pain of multiple pregnancy losses, I felt the gravity of loneliness and grief that was nearly unbearable. Each loss was a traumatic event that left me feeling isolated and longing for a supportive community, a community I couldn’t find. It was during these dark times that I realized how crucial it was to have a safe and understanding space for women facing similar challenges.

Drawing from my own experiences, I founded GouldWood Meadows to provide that much-needed sanctuary. I wanted to create a haven where women could find solace, support, and healing amidst the beauty of nature and the therapeutic presence of horses. At GouldWood Meadows, we offer a nurturing environment where women can connect with others who understand their pain and begin their healing journeys together.

The path to establishing GouldWood Meadows was filled with dedication and a deep commitment to helping others. I pursued extensive training in equine wellness and holistic therapies to ensure I could offer the best support possible. Along the way, I encountered many women who shared their stories of loss and resilience, further fueling my passion to create a community where no one would have to face their struggles alone.

Today, GouldWood Meadows stands as a testament to the power of compassion and the healing potential of equine therapy. We have created a safe zone where women can find not only emotional and spiritual healing but also a sense of belonging. The bonds formed here are built on empathy, understanding, and a shared journey toward recovery. Through our programs, we strive to ensure that every woman who walks through our doors knows she is not alone and that together, we can navigate the path to healing and renewal.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

The road to creating GouldWood Meadows has been anything but smooth. It has been a journey filled with challenges, learning, and growth. From the very beginning, I faced numerous obstacles, both personal and professional. One of the most significant struggles was dealing with my own grief and trauma from multiple pregnancy losses while trying to build a sanctuary for others. Balancing my personal healing with the demands of starting and running a business was incredibly difficult and required a level of resilience I didn’t know I had.

One of the toughest lessons I had to learn was the importance of self-care. In my drive to create a safe haven for others, I often neglected my own needs. There were times when the emotional toll of supporting others, combined with my personal grief, felt overwhelming. I had to learn to prioritize my well-being and develop healthy coping mechanisms to sustain myself. This included setting boundaries, seeking support from my own network, and finding moments of peace and reflection amidst the chaos.

Another significant challenge was the logistical and financial aspects of establishing GouldWood Meadows. Creating a retreat space that embodied my vision required substantial resources and careful planning. There were countless setbacks, from funding issues to unexpected delays in construction and program development. Each obstacle tested my determination, but also taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and problem-solving.

Despite these struggles, I am proud of the progress we have made. Remembering where I started and seeing how far I have come is incredibly fulfilling. The journey has been difficult, but it has also been transformative. I have grown as a person and as a professional, and GouldWood Meadows has become a true sanctuary for those seeking healing. The challenges we faced along the way have only strengthened our resolve and commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all who come here.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

I specialize in Equine Wellness Support, with a particular focus on Equinergy sessions and wellness retreats. Equinergy sessions combine the calming presence of horses with therapeutic practices to help individuals heal from emotional and psychological trauma. Our wellness retreats offer a holistic approach to healing, integrating mindfulness, meditation, and equine-assisted activities to foster deep, lasting change. These sessions and retreats are designed to provide a safe, supportive space where individuals can reconnect with themselves and find solace in nature and the gentle presence of our horses.

I am incredibly proud of the community I have built through GouldWood Meadows. Our sanctuary has become a haven for those seeking healing and connection. We have created a space where people feel welcomed, supported, and understood. This sense of community is a testament to the power of collective healing and the impact that a compassionate, nurturing environment can have on individuals facing life’s challenges. Seeing the positive changes in our clients and witnessing their journeys of healing and growth is immensely rewarding.

What sets GouldWood Meadows apart from others is our unique blend of equine-assisted therapy and holistic wellness practices. Our approach is deeply rooted in empathy, understanding, and a non-judgmental attitude. We recognize the profound impact that horses can have on the healing process and leverage this connection to facilitate emotional breakthroughs and personal growth. Our Equinergy sessions are designed to be deeply transformative, offering a unique blend of traditional therapeutic techniques and the intuitive wisdom of our equine partners.

On a personal level, I am proud of myself for the resilience and determination I have shown in building this sanctuary. It has been a challenging journey, filled with both personal and professional hurdles, but the fulfillment I derive from helping others makes it all worthwhile. I have grown tremendously through this experience, learning to balance self-care with my passion for helping others. This journey has not only shaped me as a professional but also strengthened my resolve to continue providing a safe, nurturing environment for those in need of healing.

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?

One of the most important qualities that has contributed to my success is resilience. Building and maintaining GouldWood Meadows has required an unwavering commitment to overcoming numerous challenges, both personal and professional. The ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn from experiences, and continuously adapt has been crucial. This resilience has allowed me to stay focused on my mission of providing a safe and healing space for individuals dealing with trauma and loss, even when the path has been difficult.

Equally vital to my success is empathy. Understanding and connecting with the emotional experiences of others is at the heart of equine wellness support. Empathy allows me to create a non-judgmental and nurturing environment where clients feel seen and heard. It helps in building trust and facilitating meaningful interactions between clients and our horses. This characteristic has enabled me to foster deep, transformative healing in those who come to GouldWood Meadows, making our work truly impactful.

However, none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my husband. His belief in me and in the vision of GouldWood Meadows has been a cornerstone of our success. From the early days of planning to the ongoing operations, his encouragement and assistance have been invaluable. He has been my rock, providing the emotional and practical support needed to navigate the ups and downs of running a sanctuary. His commitment to our shared dream has made it possible for me to dedicate myself fully to this work.

Lastly, dedication to continuous learning and growth has been essential. The field of equine wellness support is constantly evolving, and staying informed about new techniques and approaches is critical. This dedication ensures that we provide the best possible care and support to our clients. It also reflects a commitment to personal and professional development, which is necessary for sustaining long-term success. By continually expanding my knowledge and skills, I can offer more effective and innovative solutions to those who seek healing at GouldWood Meadows.

Pricing:

• Equinergy Sessions start at $50.00 (CAD)
• 1:1 Coaching sessions are tailored to each individual
• Group all inclusive Wellness Retreats start at $550 a person (CAD)
• Private all inclusive Wellness Retreats start at $650 Person (CAD)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gouldwoodmeadows.ca
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gouldwoodmeadows
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gouldwoodmeadows

Image Credits

GouldWood Meadows – James and Taylor Gould