Heartland: How a Wholesome Canadian Horse Drama Inspired Me to Grab Life by the Reins

G’day, mates! Pull up a chair and let me spin you a yarn about how a wholesome Canadian horse drama called Heartland turned my life upside down – in the best way possible.

Now, if you’re an Aussie kid of the late 90s or early 2000s, you probably remember The Saddle Club. That show was my first rodeo into the world of horses. But little did I know, years later, another TV series would come galloping into my life and reignite that passion something fierce.

From The Saddle Club to Heartland: A Horse Girl’s Journey

Fast forward to 2016. There I was, a fully-fledged adult with a desk job, when I stumbled upon Heartland on Netflix. This Canadian gem, based on Lauren Brooke’s books, follows Amy Fleming, a teenage horse whisperer from Alberta. Now, I know what you’re thinking – sounds cheesier than a quattro formaggi pizza, right? But let me tell you, it’s as addictive as Tim Tams with a cuppa.

The show’s got everything: family drama, stunning landscapes that’ll make you want to book a flight to Canada faster than you can say “maple syrup”, and of course, horses. Lots and lots of horses.

“I blame the show for taking me from an adult amateur horse rider who had just resumed taking lessons in 2016… to the insanity of my life today.”

How Heartland Changed My Life

Now, here’s where things get a bit bonkers. Watching Heartland didn’t just rekindle my love for horses – it made me want to throw caution to the wind and dive headfirst into the equestrian lifestyle.

Before I knew it, I’d gone from casual riding lessons to owning not one, not two, but three horses. I’m talking early mornings, late nights, competing in events I barely understand, and a bank account that’s seen better days. But you know what? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Heartland Effect: More Than Just Pretty Scenery

So, what was it about this show that made me want to ditch the 9-to-5 grind and embrace my inner cowgirl? Was it the breathtaking shots of the Alberta mountains? The romantic notion of “joining up” with a troubled horse in a round pen? Or maybe it was just Amy’s enviable collection of cowboy hats.

Truth is, it was all of that and more. Heartland showed me a life where nature and animals weren’t just weekend hobbies, but a way of life. It sparked a desire to connect with horses on a deeper level, to face challenges head-on, and to find meaning outside the rat race.

“I still yearned for the bond the pair shared.”

From Screen to Stable: My Real-Life Heartland Moments

Let me tell you, owning horses isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. My first horse was trickier than a Rubik’s cube, and there were times when I wondered if I’d bitten off more than I could chew. But then I’d think, “What would Amy do?” and somehow find the courage to keep going.

When I bought my second horse as a skittish six-month-old filly, it took more patience than waiting for a slow internet connection to get her used to being touched. And my third horse? Well, he gave me more grey hairs than I care to admit with a mystery illness that had me rewatching Heartland episodes for moral support.

Why Heartland is Worth a Watch (Even if You’re Not Horse-Crazy)

Look, I get it. Not everyone’s going to watch Heartland and suddenly want to sell their worldly possessions for a life on the ranch. But even if you’re not into horses, there’s something special about this show.

It’s like a warm hug for your eyes and soul. The family drama, the stunning scenery, the wholesome storylines – it’s the perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life. And who knows? You might just find yourself Googling “horse riding for beginners” before you know it.

So, do yourself a favour and give Heartland a burl. Just don’t come crying to me when you’re knee-deep in horse feed and vet bills. You’ve been warned, mate!

Heartland seasons one to six are streaming on Amazon Prime Video, and seasons seven to 17 are streaming on Netflix. Happy watching, and may the horse be with you!