About Free Rein Farm
At Free Rein Farm we work with horses as teachers, mirrors and companions. Our approach is simple: build connection first. Falls can happen, but most come from a gap in communication between horse and rider. We focus on clear, respectful communication and mutual understanding so people and horses can meet safely, confidently and authentically.
What we offer
- Relational, horse-led learning sessions designed around the needs of each person, whether you seek healing, personal growth, leadership skills, confidence or simply a deeper connection with animals.
- Equine-assisted experiences through therapeutic and developmental work in the relational field, the space between horse and human, where horses attune to energy and emotions and reflect them back in a gentle, honest way.
- Practical activities such as grooming, groundwork games, lunging, groundwork lessons, creative activities (such as mindful painting or traditional-style horse painting), and riding when a safe communication base has been established.
- A safe, supportive farm environment: we work with one horse and one pony as steady partners and host sessions on the farm where the natural setting supports calm, reflection and learning.
How it works
First session is an exploratory meeting to understand your goals and to begin building trust and clarity with the horses.
After the foundation is set, every session is designed to meet your objectives, therapeutic work, skill-building, confidence, or connection.
We prioritise the welfare of both people and horses, progressing to riding only when communication and confidence are established.
Why it matters
Horses offer a unique, embodied way to access insight and healing. They respond to presence, intention and emotion, helping people develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, resilience and authentic communication—often without words. The strength I’ve drawn from horses has guided my life, and I’m committed to sharing that experience with others who are open to it.
Come as you are
Whether you’re curious, seeking support, or ready to deepen your relationship with horses, we welcome you to the farm. Our aim is to have fun while learning, growing and healing, together with the horses. Suitable for beginners through experienced riders; no prior horse knowledge required.
Reflect Ride Recover Horsemanship!
Free Rein Farm Horses — What to expect
Your first session is exploratory where we’ll discuss your goals and needs and explore how our horses can help you achieve them. Each subsequent session is tailored to the individual and may focus on therapeutic work, leadership skills, learning horsemanship, building connection with horses, or improving communication.
No prior experience with horses is required, our program welcomes all levels, including beginners. Riding lessons are available, but we prioritise establishing a solid communication and connection with the horses first; riding typically begins in the second or third session, depending on the individual.
Location: Free Rein Farm is on the South Coast, in a forested area south of Ramsgate on the R620, KwaZulu-Natal.
Fees: The first session is usually 1.5 hours and costs R450. Subsequent sessions are 45–60 minutes and cost between R300 and R350, depending on the number of lessons per month or package.
Bookings essential!
Bookings are available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with morning sessions from 7:00 to 9:00 and afternoon sessions from 15:00 to 17:00. Times may vary by season, and later sessions are sometimes offered in winter to accommodate reduced daylight.
In the silent space between breath and hoof, the heart learns a language beyond words.
About Sarah-Jane
I can’t remember a time before my love for horses. They’ve always been part of my consciousness, and I’ve always longed for a connection with these majestic souls. In my journey with them I’ve found true connection, friendship, companionship and love.
I do recall my first ride. I’m not sure how old I was, maybe four or five. The pony I was put on, a beautiful dark bay mare, was in season and full of life. A stallion nearby set her off running round and round the lunge ring with me on her back. An old cowboy looking man leaned over the rails, grabbed me by the waist and got me off. I wasn’t panicked or upset, I held on as tight as I could until he managed to lift me clear. And that was it, I was in love, I just wanted to get back in the saddle. My parents thought I was too young, so I waited a year or two before my second experience at a riding school.
The next pony was a chestnut gelding. We were in a larger arena with high wooden fences similar to the lunge area. Again the horse ran off, but this time he jumped the fence. I flew over his head and came off on the left side. My parents rushed toward me while I jumped up to show I wasn’t hurt, my ankle was tender, but I wasn’t going to let anyone see. My mother, understandably upset, declared I was too young to ride anymore. The schoolmistress argued, but my father asked me what I wanted. My answer has never changed: I wanted to get back on. From that day on, after every fall, I’ve gotten back on. They say an experienced rider has had more than seven falls, at the ripe young age of 47, I can honestly claim I’m an extremely experienced rider.
My approach is a little different. I can’t promise there won’t be falls, but those early incidents were the result of poor connection and understanding between pony and rider. I aim for clear communication and mutual understanding between the person and the horse. I have a horse and a pony, and our aim is to facilitate what they have to offer, to share their healing and teaching energy with those seeking connection, reflection, and strength.
My love of horses has always been a guiding force. The strength I have drawn from them is immense, and I would love to share it with anyone who wants to find connection. If you are open to it, these beautiful souls can show you a level of communication that goes beyond words.