Finding Inner Peace with Horses: Fiona’s ZenFoal Approach

It’s day four at the Dublin Horse Show, part of a year marking 150 years of celebration. In the middle of the bustle, I meet Fiona, founder of ZenFoal, an equine-facilitated learning space built to help people with their mental health and well-being.

“I have set up ZenFoal, which is equine facilitated learning for helping people with their mental health and well-being,” Fiona tells me.

The idea came from her own journey. “It came from years of dealing with my own mental health and seeing how the horses have helped me. We bought a new piece of land and I was… sitting there with the horses, and I said I wanted to share it.”

Her work focuses on adults, using the horses’ reactions as a catalyst for self-discovery. “The horses can bring up things that you won’t get in a clinical setting. It’s a more natural conversation… the horse’s reaction will bring something up, and therefore we have something to talk about.”

Fiona describes one horse in particular: “She doesn’t particularly care to be around people unless you’re upset. You might not even know it yourself, but she’ll come over… and I’ll have to sit there and process it.” That sensitivity has shaped how Fiona works with clients — letting the animals lead the dialogue.

ZenFoal officially opened last month, the result of steady preparation since Fiona began training with Athena in 2023. “I have an amazing support… Athena’s groups have helped me, and then my own friends and family have been really supportive.”

Her herd — four of her own horses plus one belonging to a friend — inspired the name. “All mine are related, so that’s where the ‘full’ part came in. I’ve always found horses help us find our inner peace.”

Set against the quiet backdrop of Blessington Lakes, ZenFoal offers a small welfare unit where visitors can have tea or coffee before heading out to the pasture. The horses live out in a herd 24/7, allowing guests to witness natural behaviour up close.

Fiona’s vision is simple but far-reaching. “I want to help as many people as I can. Even if it’s not me who can help you, if I can connect you with somebody else… you’re not alone in the world. There is another way to feel better and find your inner peace.”

Her message to those struggling is clear: “Don’t give up hope. There’s always another option there to keep you going.”