While we humans struggle with being present, a horse’s instinctual wisdom enables them to be fully present in the moment — relaxed enough to graze, drink and play, while trusting that should the need arise, their survival instincts will kick in and enable them to move at any moment. Once the threat has ended, they might snort, take big exhales and literally shake their bodies all over as a reset. They let go of the (now past) threat, then go back to grazing and just being in the present moment.
As a veteran returning from Afghanistan, Hannah* sought out Equine Therapy to address her Post Traumatic Stress and help her integrate back into civilian life. She was having a hard time managing her anxiety and was just starting to practice the skill of being present in stressful situations.
Hannah was drawn to a horse she named “Obbie” who was also […]
In contrast, for us humans, letting go and moving forward can be extremely challenging. Whether we have experienced a bruised ego or a serious physical or emotional violation, learning how to let go of resentment and anger is essential for our physical and emotional well-being.
Mark* came to Stand InBalance after a painful divorce that left him bitter, lonely, and lost. He was immediately drawn to a horse that he thought would be “easy” to work with. As the session unfolded, Mark found himself struggling to get the horse to like him and partner with him in the activities. As Mark became more frustrated and resentful he realized that the horse reminded him of “Nancy,” his ex-wife. The more frustrated he became the more difficult the interaction. After 30 minutes, Mark and “Nancy” found a nice, cooperative, rhythm together. However, this was quickly undone as “Nancy” started pulling him off course toward another horse in the arena. […]
When the horse Jenny* (31 y.o.) had chosen to work with dramatically backed away from her as she announced that she was “feeling really good”, he was making was a clear statement about her lack of authenticity. When Jenny finally acknowledged that she had been “putting on a happy face” for decades and that underneath she felt scared and uncertain about […]
It has become increasingly evident that the more balanced a society is the more successful and harmonious it is. The effort to re-empower women has a long history and is boldly evident today. Women’s empowerment doesn’t just benefit women, it benefits the entire human race.