Understanding the Connection Between Horses and Humans in Therapy

Equine Assisted Wellbeing is an increasingly popular form of therapy that has been shown to be effective in improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals struggling with a range of issues, from anxiety and depression to trauma and addiction. One of the key aspects of EAW is the close relationship that develops between the client and the horse, which can provide a unique and powerful source of emotional support and healing.

Horses are highly intuitive and sensitive animals that are able to pick up on human emotions and body language. In fact, research has shown that horses are able to detect changes in a person's heart rate and breathing, and can sense when a person is feeling anxious or stressed. This sensitivity and awareness make horses ideal partners in therapy, as they can provide valuable feedback to clients and help them to better understand their emotions and responses.

In Equine Assisted Wellbeing sessions, clients work with a trained practitioner and a horse and participate in activities including grooming and feeding the horse, leading the horse through an obstacle course, or simply spending time in the horse's presence. Through these activities, clients learn to develop a relationship with the horse and to communicate effectively with the animal. This can help to build trust and emotional connections, which are often difficult to achieve in traditional talk therapy.

Horses also provide a non-judgmental presence that can be especially helpful for individuals who may feel shame or stigma around their mental health struggles. Clients may feel more comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts and feelings with a horse than they would with a human therapist, and may be more willing to engage in the therapeutic process as a result.

Furthermore, horses can help clients to regulate their emotions and to develop coping skills. For example, if a client is feeling anxious or overwhelmed, the practitioner may ask them to focus on their breathing while grooming the horse. This can help to ground the client in the present moment and to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. Additionally, the physical act of caring for and interacting with the horse can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which can be empowering for individuals struggling with depression or low self-esteem.

The connection between horses and human emotions in therapy is a powerful and effective tool for promoting healing and wellbeing. Equine Assisted Wellbeing provides a unique and dynamic approach to mental health treatment that can help individuals to develop emotional connections, regulate their emotions, and build coping skills. If you are struggling with mental health issues or would like to explore the benefits of equine therapy, consider speaking with a trained Equine Assisted Wellbeing practitioner.