Have you ever wondered why horses are so helpful when it comes to emotional health and wellbeing? Here's a little insight on Equine Facilitated Wellness (AKA: Equine Facilitated Learning, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, & Equine Facilitated Mental Health):

Horses can be an emotional mirror for humans as they can sense and respond to our feelings quite quickly and reflect them back to us. These animals are even able to sense those emotions still under the surface - before we are even aware they are there! As prey animals, they are accustomed to using their strong emotional senses as a survival tool, and tend to feed off the emotions of their herd.  Within the herd environment, horses are accustomed to being transparent and intentional with sharing their feelings. They don't often push them down as people tend to do, Nor do they repress or numb out to their feelings. By reflecting our emotions back to us, they are able to offer feedback in a way that doesn’t feel intrusive or judgmental, just genuine and honest, authentic feedback.  In this way we are able to grow our personal awareness, learn about relationships, non-verbal communication, trust, & practice emotional regulation.  They can help us grow confidence, increase self-esteem, acquire leadership abilities, and/or find ways to cope with stress, anxiety, trauma and depression. Through partnering with horses, we are provided a unique opportunity to truly be ourselves, in a non-judgemental, honest and authentic environment. These incredible beings are ready and willing to form quick connections and invite you to find a place of true rest in their presence.

Written by Jules Rainforth
Equine wellness professional
Rein Forth Equine