The Journey Resumed: Kansas Carradine - A Deep Dive into Personal Growth and Spirituality
Episode Title: The Journey Resumed: Kansas Carradine
Host: Warwick Schiller
Release Date: August 2, 2024
Podcast: The Journey On Podcast
Introduction
In this enlightening episode of The Journey On Podcast, host Warwick Schiller welcomes back guest Kansas Carradine for an in-depth conversation that delves into her remarkable journey of personal development, spirituality, and her shared adventures in the equestrian world. Building on their previous interaction, Warwick and Kansas explore the intertwining paths of horse training, spiritual growth, and the transformative experiences they've encountered together, particularly during the challenging Gaucho Derby.
Background of Kansas Carradine
Kansas Carradine's multifaceted background sets the stage for a compelling discussion. As the daughter of Hollywood actor Roger McGuinn, Kansas has a rich heritage in both entertainment and equestrian arts. Her early years were immersed in the vibrant Laurel Canyon music scene, rubbing shoulders with iconic musicians like Bob Dylan and Jim Morrison. This unique upbringing fostered a deep appreciation for both the arts and the spiritual practices that would later define her personal journey.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [05:27]: "I've been very attracted to Vedic knowledge or Vedic East Indian influences and teachings, as well as Native American and other spiritual practices."
The Gaucho Derby Adventure
Warwick recounts the memorable Gaucho Derby adventure they embarked on together. The Gaucho Derby, a rigorous endurance race across the rugged terrains of Argentina, tested both their physical limits and emotional resilience. Kansas, relatively new to such extreme endurance events, gracefully navigated the challenges, illustrating her adaptability and deep connection with her horse.
Key Highlights:
- Starting the Race: Drawing horses in alphabetical order resulted in Kansas drawing horse number 201 and Warwick number 202, initially creating a unique pairing.
- Challenges Faced: From treacherous terrains to unexpected setbacks like Warwick’s horse going lame, the duo faced numerous obstacles that tested their resolve.
- Emotional Moments: Kansas shared a poignant experience at sunset, observing the geometry of horse pairings and reflecting on their unique destinies.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [12:01]: "We decide to take care of that horse. It was a moment that changed the course of the whole race." [12:01]
Spiritual Journeys and Practices
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Kansas's profound spiritual journey. Influenced by her father's eclectic spiritual practices and her own explorations, Kansas delves into Vedic traditions, Native American spirituality, and her unwavering devotion to her guru, Amma.
Amma – The Hugging Saint of India: Kansas introduces Amma, a revered spiritual leader known for her compassionate embraces. Kansas credits Amma’s teachings for fostering her ability to maintain calm and compassion in the face of adversity.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [53:50]: "Amma is an embodiment of motherly energy. Her teachings on compassion are the number one thing that can really solve all of the world's problems." [53:50]
Influence of Native American Spirituality: Kansas explores her connection to Native American traditions, particularly those of the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Chumash nations. She emphasizes the deep spiritual bond between humans and horses within these cultures, highlighting the unbroken horse traditions that contrast with mainstream historical narratives.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [93:02]: "There is an authentic, unbroken horse culture within the Cheyenne and Lakota nations that is unique and deeply spiritual." [93:02]
HeartMath and Physiological Awareness
A pivotal part of the discussion centers on HeartMath, a system that emphasizes the connection between emotions and physiological states. Kansas explains how HeartMath techniques, such as heart-focused breathing, have been instrumental in her personal growth and in fostering harmonious relationships with horses.
Understanding Coherence: Coherence is described as the synchronization of physiological systems through emotional regulation. By practicing heart-focused breathing, individuals can achieve a state of balance that enhances mental clarity and emotional stability.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [69:23]: "HeartMath helps in regulating our emotions, creating a synchronized rhythm between our heart and mind, leading to a measurable flow state." [69:23]
Application in Equestrian Therapy: Kansas integrates HeartMath principles into her equine therapy sessions, teaching individuals to manage stress and build stronger connections with their horses through physiological awareness and emotional regulation.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [111:06]: "HeartMath creates a compassionate field environment where individuals can harmoniously connect with their horses." [111:06]
Lessons Learned and Philosophical Insights
Throughout the Gaucho Derby and their experiences together, Warwick and Kansas extract valuable life lessons centered on resilience, gratitude, and the importance of being present.
Focus on the Journey: Rather than fixating on the race outcome, their emphasis was on enjoying each moment, appreciating the beauty of nature, and fostering a deeper connection with their horses.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [27:23]: "No matter what happened, we're in Argentina riding horses." [27:23]
Resilience Through Challenges: Facing physical pain and unforeseen obstacles, both Warwick and Kansas learned the importance of mental fortitude and emotional balance in overcoming challenges.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [16:14]: "Extreme attention to self-care is a way to be responsible for how we contribute to the community." [16:14]
Current Activities and Future Plans
Kansas shares her ongoing projects and future endeavors, emphasizing her commitment to blending HeartMath with horsemanship to foster deeper human-animal connections.
Workshops and Retreats: She conducts integrative equine-guided education workshops that combine HeartMath techniques with horsemanship skills, aiming to create holistic therapeutic experiences.
Collaborations: Kansas collaborates with organizations like Compton Cowboys, teaching heart awareness and emotional regulation to inner-city youth, enhancing their interactions with horses and improving their overall well-being.
Future Plans: Looking ahead, Kansas plans retreats in Costa Rica, integrating her love for wild nature with her spiritual and equestrian teachings, further expanding her impact on personal and communal growth.
Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [130:42]: "Blending HeartMath teachings with horsemanship creates a rich dialogue that enhances both human and horse relationships." [130:42]
Conclusion
This episode of The Journey On Podcast offers a profound exploration of Kansas Carradine's journey through the realms of spirituality, personal growth, and equestrian excellence. Warwick Schiller and Kansas engage in a heartfelt dialogue that not only recounts their adventurous Gaucho Derby experience but also unveils the deep-seated practices and philosophies that guide their lives. From the compassionate teachings of Amma to the physiological insights of HeartMath, listeners are invited to reflect on their own paths towards harmony and resilience.
Final Notable Quote:
Kansas Carradine [131:31]: "Helping those connections fosters interspecies relations and preserves the wildness of nature." [131:31]
For those looking to embark on their own journey of growth and connection with horses, this episode serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of compassion, mindfulness, and unwavering partnership.
Connect with Kansas Carradine:
- Website: circuscowgirl.com
- Facebook: Presence Circus Cowgirl
- Upcoming Retreats: Visit circuscowgirl.com for more information.
Connect with Warwick Schiller:
- Online Video Library: videos.warwickshiller.com
- Social Media: Follow Warwick on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for the latest training advice and insights.