Nature in mind: animals and mindfulness with author Ruth Doyle and illustrator Alexandra Finkeldey

Tell us about your horse-friends, Winnie, Diesel and Wilson, who you dedicated the book to. What have they taught you?

My horse-friends all experienced early-life trauma. Their courage and resilience teaches me that it’s possible to move through negative events and not feel defined by them, especially if we live in the moment. Winnie was the inspiration for A Horse Called Now – she is the kind and gentle leader of the herd, who is welcoming and accepting of all. Diesel is cheeky and clever, always the first in line for adventure (and treats!); Wilson is sensitive and placid, enjoying time on his own (as long as he can still see his friends). 

Winnie reminds me to stay strong and open-minded; Diesel shows me that there’s always potential for fun, and Wilson teaches me the importance of alone-time.

Now's eyes see ‘the tiniest blinks of magic’ – do you have any advice about paying attention to nature and appreciating the little things? And what are your favourite ‘blinks of magic’ in nature?

It helps to create space away from artificial distractions, to be fully present and alive to the wonders of the natural world.

Some of my favourite blinks of magic are: winter sun on a frosted cobweb, the azure flash of a Kingfisher’s wing, tiny rabbit footprints in the snow, the wind making the trees dance, the Barn Owl hunting above the fields at dusk, the starlings’ logic-defying murmurations, the sunlight tipping the horses’ manes with gold, the first hint of a snowdrop, a rook gathering a beak-full of horse-hair to line its nest…so many!

You dedicated A Horse Called Now to 'all the sweet animals that inspired the illustrations'. What wisdom have you gained from paying attention to animals?

Animals tend to their needs with so much ease. I love that they always appear to be doing exactly what they’re meant to be doing. Whether it’s napping in a sunbeam, frolicking in a field, or foraging for food, they fully commit to the task at hand. And whether I’m working or playing, I try to remind myself of that focus and commitment.

Do you have any pets or relationships with animals which have helped you live in the moment, like Now the horse?

My relationships with my two cats, Mochi and Jo Bean, help me to live in the moment every day. Jo Bean is intelligent, playful and deeply stubborn. He teaches me about confidence and boundary-setting. In contrast, Mochi is gentle, friendly, and easy-going. She’ll readily take a nap anywhere, and is always up for a cuddle. She teaches me about the importance of rest, trust, and gratitude.