Why Horses?

Horses have survived for centuries in the wild because of their sensitivity to the slightest change in their environment. Their eyes give them a panoramic view to constantly scan for danger, every inch of their body is as sensitive as our fingertips, and their sense of smell and sight is much more powerful than ours.  Living in a state of perpetual vigilance, horses are rarely completely at ease, even sleeping standing up to facilitate a swift response to potential danger. This innate sensitivity and hyper-awareness resonate strongly with individuals experiencing PTSD. Clients often find a profound connection with horses as they empathize with the shared experience of heightened alertness and the ever-present readiness to respond to perceived threats.

Horse's remarkable sensitivity makes them exceptionally attuned to the nuances of non-verbal cues and emotions. Clients grappling with trauma frequently encounter difficulty expressing their feelings or may be hesitant to revisit painful experiences through traditional talk therapy. These perceptive animals respond to the emotional needs of humans in profound ways, offering comfort and support for aspects of the trauma that may be too challenging to articulate verbally. 

Horses provide immediate and honest feedback to human behavior. Clients can observe the horse's reactions, facilitating self-awareness and insight into their own emotional states.

Horses command our attention with their size and presence. We cannot just control a powerful horse, bending them to our will. Mindfully approaching horses helps us reflect on how we approach our relationships and how we can face other big or overwhelming things in our lives. 

Horses do not readily extend trust to everyone they encounter; trust must be earned. Establishing a connection with a horse requires a nuanced understanding of their boundaries and a commitment to setting and respecting healthy boundaries. Many of our clients grapple with issues related to trust and boundaries, so they find resonance in the lessons horses offer. Through working with horses, individuals gain valuable skills that can be directly applied to their interactions with fellow humans, fostering growth in these crucial areas. 

Much like humans, horses have defined roles within a herd. They display distinct personalities, attitudes, and moods. Some horses are fond of a certain herd mate, and may dislike another. They could be playful or they could be stubborn. In other words, horses are a lot like humans. 

Horses are imposing and powerful beings that command our attention and respect. For many clients, staying in the present moment poses a challenge, particularly for those grappling with PTSD. Trauma frequently induces heightened anxiety and stress levels. Engaging in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) becomes a transformative experience, guiding individuals to focus on the here and now. This therapeutic approach aids in reducing anxiety by encouraging a mindful presence in the current moment, allowing clients to navigate their emotions more effectively. 

A significant number of our clients grapple with feelings of powerlessness, particularly in the aftermath of trauma. The interaction with these majestic animals becomes a transformative experience. Through guiding and caring for the horse, setting boundaries, and establishing a mutual understanding, clients cultivate a profound sense of empowerment. This hands-on engagement fosters not only a connection with the horse but also a renewed belief in one's ability to navigate and influence their own journey toward healing. 

Interacting with horses offers clients a metaphorical mirror, reflecting insights into their own challenges and coping strategies. As they navigate activities with the horses, clients draw connections between the experience and real-life situations, fostering self-discovery and empowering the application of newfound insights in their personal journeys. 

Highly attuned to human emotions, horses offer immediate feedback to clients engaging in therapeutic activities. Through these interactions, clients learn to manage their emotions in real-time, fostering a deeper understanding of emotional regulation. Both humans and horses emit electromagnetic fields, and when they interact, individuals experience not only immediate feedback but also enjoy physiological benefits such as lower blood pressure and heart rates. The inherent calming effect of the equine presence contributes to the regulation of the nervous system, creating a harmonious and therapeutic environment.