Equine Facilitated Learning

 

Horses are social creatures who readily and honestly respond to the challenges inherent in forming and sustaining relationships. As animals preyed upon in nature, they have also retained a highly developed ability to sense changes in the stance and arousal of other herd members, an ability they easily transfer to interactions with human beings. Horses see through the slightest incongruities of emotion and intention, yet they are exceedingly patient and forgiving.

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Through a series of specially designed activities, participants in Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) deepen their awareness of personal issues, core feelings and areas of bodily tension that inhibit the ability to reach their true potential. A tremendous boost in self-esteem and confidence comes from learning how to establish boundaries and direct a thousand-pound creature through mental focus, creative visualization and clarity of intent.

These skills, which can be difficult to teach in a conventional classroom or counseling session, have far-ranging applications that are linked to increased success in personal relationships, careers and parenting. Horse-facilitated activities help people recognize and move beyond the coping strategies associated with surviving in a competitive world. Participants in EFL develop a thriving mind set capable of compassion, innovation, energy adaptability, and creativity.

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Equine Facilitated Learning requires no previous experience with horses and involves working on the ground with the horse in a safe setting with an experienced handler. EFL may or may not proceed to working on horseback. Just a single session can have life changing effects as participants open to their true potential.