Event Type : event

Learn about the haunted legends of Whitewater, WI, hear the “Witches of Whitewater” stories, and learn how Whitewater got the name “Second Salem.”

Whether you’re a skeptic, a paranormal enthusiast or just looking to learn more about Whitewater’s legends and lore, you won’t want to miss the annual Whitewater Spirit Tour! Whitewater may seem like a normal Midwestern town, but it hides a dark past, one rife with tales of witches, ghosts, strange murders, and occult practices. In fact, Whitewater’s supernatural history has earned it the nickname, “Second Salem.”

On the Whitewater Spirit Tour, you will learn about Whitewater’s “spirited” sites. You’ll experience cemeteries under the stars, visit with Whitewater’s most (in)famous historical inhabitants, and gain an understanding of spiritualism and its impact on our city.  Be sure to look out for the witches of Whitewater, the ghost of Nellie Horan—you never know where she might make an appearance—and the curious configuration of the graves of the unlucky (or potentially cursed, if you believe the stories) Winchesters.

Make sure to grab a delicious dinner in town beforehand and/or a nightcap afterward!

I’m excited to be part of this event as a docent!

The tour runs Friday, October 11th, and Saturday, October 12th. The event is held rain or shine. Details below are for 2023 and are subject to change! 

• Check-in for both tours begins at 5:30 pm
• The short program starts at 6:00 pm
• Buses depart for the tour at 6:30 pm.
• The walking tour departs at 6:30 pm

​​Important information & details

Combining the healing power of horses and Reiki, Susanna Farms and Live Life Spiritual Direction are offering a unique one-day only Reiki experience in the Susanna Farms horse arena in Lake Villa in NE Illinois.

Separately, Reiki and horses are healing entities. Put them together and you get amplified healing (and a very cool experience)!

If you are curious about what to expect, watch our short video here of a Reiki with Horses experience at Susanna Farms.

Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024

Time: 1:00-6:00 pm  – You must sign up for a 45 minute time block for the Reiki with Horses session upon  registering. You will be sent a link to sign up for your time slot after registering.

Location: Susanna Farms, 24153 W. Townline Rd, Lake Villa, IL 60046

Cost: $150

What’s Included: 30-40 minutes of Reiki and 5-15 minutes of consultation time, light refreshments, access to areas for meditation, and time for you to do some brushing and meditation with a horse before or after their session

What is Reiki?

Reiki is an energy healing modality that was discovered and cultivated in Japan.  As described by the International Center for Reiki Training, “the word Reiki is made of two Japanese words – Rei which means “God’s Wisdom or the Higher Power” and Ki which is “life force energy”. So, Reiki is actually “spiritually guided life force energy.” Reiki has been credited with the healing of mental, physical, and emotional issues. When our life force energy is lower, it is more difficult for us to handle stressors such as illness and trauma.  As reported by the South China Morning Post, one man immediately felt “lighter, happier, and more relaxed” after just one session. His practitioner says that she “has helped people the world over deal with anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, chronic illness, mental fatigue, and other physical and emotional problems.” Given the rise of stress, anxiety, and suicide in American and other cultures, these reports are promising. It can also help relieve physical symptoms. For more information on Reiki, please click and read here.

Why are horses so healing?

Horses are considered healing animals for a variety of reasons, both psychological and physiological:

1. Emotional Connection: Horses are highly intuitive animals and can sense emotions in humans. Their ability to respond to non-verbal cues helps build a deep emotional connection. This makes them ideal for therapies like Equine-Assisted Therapy, where individuals struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression can feel understood and supported in a non-judgmental way.
2. Mindfulness and Presence: Horses live in the moment, and interacting with them encourages humans to do the same. This promotes mindfulness, which can reduce stress, calm anxiety, and help people feel more grounded.
3. Nonverbal Communication: Horses rely heavily on body language and subtle cues. This nonverbal communication helps people become more aware of their own emotions and actions, leading to better self-awareness and emotional regulation.
4. Physical Interaction: Caring for or riding horses involves physical activity, which can have a therapeutic effect on the body. The movement of riding a horse mimics the motion of walking, which can benefit people with physical disabilities or those recovering from injury. This rhythmic movement can also have a calming and balancing effect on the nervous system.
5. Confidence Building: Interacting with such large and powerful animals can boost confidence and self-esteem. Successfully managing and caring for a horse fosters a sense of accomplishment and empowerment, which is especially beneficial for individuals overcoming trauma or facing significant life challenges.
6. Unconditional Acceptance: Horses do not judge. They respond to the energy and intentions of the person they are interacting with, offering an unbiased and unconditional presence. This can create a safe space for emotional healing and personal growth.

Overall, horses provide a unique combination of emotional support, physical benefits, and an opportunity for self-discovery, making them powerful partners in the healing process.

Please register and join us on October 19th and give yourself the gift of healing!