What is Equine Facilitated Learning?
The horse/human connection and partnership has existed for centuries and has taken many different forms based on horses’ collective contribution to our progress and development. Within the last twenty-five years, an inspiring and innovative horse/human partnership has been formalized into a therapeutic discipline practiced within North America and around the world.
Equine Facilitated Learning is an energetic and beneficial equine assisted learning modality that seeks to empower individuals through participation in an experiential learning approach; in other words, to learn by doing. This unique modality engages people by offering them the opportunity to fully participate with their mind, body and spirit.
Horses help us by being active participants in these learning situations and offer us a genuine and enlightening interpretation of reality from their perspective. As an effective means to improve well-being, focus on personal development, manage stress, build self-confidence, develop leadership skills, and nurture emotional learning, the Equine Facilitated Learning approach can benefit youth and adults alike.
Learn from the herd
Why are horses excellent teachers?
As prey animals, horses are acutely aware of their environment and have developed excellent communication skills in order to survive and thrive. They are instinctive and natural, and they mirror or reflect the emotions and energy of the people around them. Their survival as a species has depended on their sensitive observational skills and intuitive knowing.
Through Equine Facilitated Learning sessions, we can learn from horses by paying attention to their honest and non-judgmental feedback about our own approach to daily living.
Learn From The Herd
How does this feedback happen?
As there is no judgment in a horse’s response to us, their feedback is honest, direct, and curiously accurate. Here’s why:
- First, the horse is aware of how we are feeling about ourselves and our life circumstances. They can sense our energy and pick up what is happening for us internally. By tuning in to your emotional state, horses listen to you at a profound level. If we’re feeling anxious, fearful, or sad, the horse will know!
- Secondly, all horse herds work as a team within the structure of a hierarchy. In order to learn the ways of the herd and become a team member, you may need to reflect on your inner struggles and truths, and surrender your typical team role in order to adopt a new perspective on teamwork.
- Thirdly, you can’t fool a horse by hiding your emotions. A horse can sense when we are not being our true selves. Because the horse has no hidden agenda and does not judge, they can teach us how to feel confident about being authentic in all of our relationships.
In a safe and nurturing environment and partnering with the horse as teacher, develop your intuition, create new possibilities in your life, and find your path through the wisdom of the horse!
Equine Facilitated Learning
What can I expect at a session?
Each session is individually tailored to include achievable goals as identified by each client. All Equine Facilitated Learning activities are done at ground level and there is no horseback riding involved. Comfortable and weather appropriate clothing with closed toe/closed heel shoes or boots are recommended as the sessions occur in an outdoor, barn or arena setting. Each session is approximately 75 minutes in length and your interaction with a horse may include grooming, leading, and/or observing their communication and behaviour. Sessions also focus on skill-building in the following areas: verbal and nonverbal communication, intuition, building trust, using your senses, body awareness, relationship building, creating clear intentions, boundary setting, decision-making and problem-solving. Equine Facilitated Learning sessions are very effective and, on average, your goals may be accomplished in four to five individual appointments. No prior horse experience is required!
Anna-Marie Duffy
About your guide
Testimonials about Anna-Marie's coaching:
I felt lighter on the way home – physically, mentally, and spiritually! I had a kink in my neck for the last 2-3 days and it’s now gone!! What a great way to start the weekend!
C.P., Registered Nurse
This was my first FEEL experience. I felt Anna-Marie’s support and immediately connected with the horse. I would highly recommend this form of healing and self-exploration to anyone.
K.L., Systems Analyst