Trusting the Journey: How One Rider Found Confidence by Listening to Her Horse
Must Love Horses interviews Ansley Bevan
What started with a rocking horse and afternoons on a neighbor’s farm quickly grew into a lifelong passion. For Ansley Bevan, the barn was always more than a place to ride—it was a place of calm, purpose, and connection.
AB Equine Therapy, founded by Ansley, focuses on helping equestrians build deeper connections with their horses through education, bodywork, and holistic care. With a background in massage therapy, equine rehabilitation, and biomechanics, Ansley’s mission is to empower horse owners with the knowledge they need to give their horses the healthiest, happiest lives possible.
Her proudest accomplishment? Taking her “high-strung” Thoroughbred completely bitless and barefoot—defying industry norms and the advice of trainers who insisted on harsher methods. That process taught her to trust her own instincts with horses, building a kind of confidence that can’t be taught in lessons.
And that’s exactly her advice for others starting their horse journey: trust your gut. Follow your instincts, seek guidance when you need it, but don’t be afraid to break the mold if it means doing right by your horse.
"Do what feels right for you and your horse. Your journey is meant for YOU."
1. What about horses captured your heart and made you fall in love with them?
I've been drawn to horses ever since I can remember. I had a spring rocking horse toy that I would constantly ride as a child. I was fortunate enough to have a neighbor who lived on a farm and she introduced me to my first in person experiences with horses. I would help her take care of her old polo ponies- giving them baths and cleaning their stalls. From there I was hooked and I never looked back. I found peace in the barn as well as being around the horses. It wasn't just about riding for me. Something about them just soothed my soul.
2. In your experience, what’s the most fulfilling moment or accomplishment you’ve had while working with horses?
I would say my biggest accomplishment while working with horses has been taking my 'high strung' thoroughbred bitless and successfully barefoot. These are things that aren't necessarily considered 'typical' across the equine industry or 'achievable' with the breed. Throughout the process, I learned so much about him and truly gained a level of self confidence that I hadn't had before. Even though I had always considered myself a capable rider, there was something profound about being able to ride my horse bitless when every trainer prior had me put harsh bits and restrictive aids on him because he was hot and difficult to control. Once I had accomplished this I knew that the sky was the limit and I needed to trust myself when it came to horses.
3. For someone just starting their journey with horses, what’s the first piece of advice you would give them to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience?
The advice I most commonly give to all equestrians, experienced or brand new, is to trust your intuition. Horses have a way of mirroring ourselves back to us. It's okay to seek guidance when we need it, but don't get caught up in traditional methods or what the person next to you is doing. Do what feels right for you and your horse. Your journey is a unique experience meant for YOU. So be sure to savor it- the journey is what's valuable, it's not always about the destination.
For Ansley, success isn't about ribbons or titles—it is about trust, partnership, and rewriting the rules to honor the horse. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your riding journey, remember: the real reward isn’t the destination—it’s the ride.
Thank you, Ansley! So much wisdom and learning. To stay up date follow Ansley here.
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