Wild Horses, Rewilding Humans
At Mindful Mustang, we rescue wild horses who, in turn, help us learn about ourselves.
Guided by the scientific principles of Polyvagal Theory, our programs focus on cultivating personal growth through immersive experiences with these wild mustangs. We engage in activities that foster trust, connection, and a deeper understanding of our nervous systems to better prepare us for real-world challenges.
We’re based at Rugged Ranch, in the magical Topanga Canyon — offering an opportunity to connect with nature and wild animals just minutes from central Los Angeles. Our ranchland borders Topanga State Park — the world’s largest wildland within a city limits — offering endless space to explore and play.
Through our programs, which are available for adults or children, we aim to create a foundation of curiosity, joy, and resilience that can last a lifetime.
Our Programs
Unlock your potential with the power of wild horses. Book today and embark upon the most transformative journey of your life.
Meet our wonderful horses, hear their stories, and learn about the challenges wild mustangs face in America. Enjoy spending time around these majestic animals at Rugged Ranch, Topanga, and discover how our equine-guided self-development programs can benefit you personally and emotionally.
Escape the stress of daily life, and improve your overall wellbeing, while finding true joy and peace among these majestic wild horses in the beautiful Topanga State Park. Enjoy a 60-minute customized private session at Rugged Ranch, specifically tailored to meet your individual wellness goals.
This groundbreaking program consists of eight hours of immersive sessions designed to promote mutual growth and connection for humans and wild horses. During each session, you and the young mustangs will collaborate to achieve personal goals using liberty and natural horsemanship techniques.
Children develop gentle horsemanship skills through connecting with horses, building relationships, and playful activities. All sessions start with ground-based learning. We also work on nervous system regulation to boost well-being, creativity, and confidence. We welcome neurodiverse children.
All sessions are 1:1 unless otherwise agreed. Contact us for details of group sessions and team-building programs.
Mindful Mustang founder Sarah Ann-Marie Samson is a Professor at the Polyvagal Equine Institute, pioneers in nervous system regulation through connection with horses. She is also a globally-respected media executive, who has worked alongside Simon Cowell for more than two decades as his PR and SVP of his company, SYCO Entertainment, offering guidance to artists including One Direction, Susan Boyle, Leona Lewis, and Camila Cabello.
Testimonials
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"I recommend Mindful Mustang to anyone looking to build safety and connection within themselves. Sarah’s approach to equine assisted therapies is transformative, as well as welcoming, kind, gentle, safe and transparent."
Jay
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"My experience with the Mindful Mustang herd at Rugged Ranch was magical. Sarah’s insights into herd dynamics and the nervous system were fascinating. It resonated so deeply that I returned within a week!"
Ashley
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"I've had a amazing experience. No two sessions have been alike and I look forward to every visit. It’s been a joy getting to know the horses and Sarah. She truly cares about the herd and your time there.”
Jordon
In a collaboration between Mindful Mustang and the Wild Beauty Foundation, we hosted nonprofit the Foster Warriors to introduce their members to the healing power of wild horses.
The Plight of Wild Mustangs: A Struggle for Survival and Freedom
The wild mustang, an emblem of American spirit and freedom, finds itself at the heart of a modern struggle for survival amidst ongoing disputes over land usage between humans and horses. With over 85,000 wild horses currently detained in government-run facilities and tens of thousands more being rounded up annually, the future of these majestic creatures hangs in the balance.
At Mindful Mustang, we are dedicated to changing the narrative for these magnificent animals. Our mission is to rescue, adopt, and nurture young mustangs, gently acclimating them to human companionship within a safe and loving environment.
And, in turn, these wild mustangs help us humans to reconnect with nature and ourselves.
Contact Us
If you have questions about our programs please get in touch!