Mindful Equine Therapy
“Something about the outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man.”
– Winston Churchill
Horses are the best teachers!
If you are feeling ungrounded, recovering from a cancer diagnosis or stuck in unhealthy patterns, Mindful Equine Therapy™ can be most helpful amidst the chaos of life. Susan combined her 35 years as an educator, a leader, and a lifelong learner with her life’s purpose to help women after cancer recover from the emotional storm. In doing so she created this proprietary practice. The effects of mindfulness are documented by research as are the effects of equine therapy for decreasing the symptoms of stress, PTSD, chronic pain, depression and anxiety. The combination is powerful and unique!
Through their innate sensitivity, horses detect the slightest tremors of emotion, unearthing buried traumas and unresolved conflicts that hinder our progress. Doing the mindfulness work and getting into our your belly breath before interacting with the herd is extremely helpful.
Unlike humans, horses don’t sugarcoat truths or mask discomfort. They confront negativity head-on, compelling us to stand in our power and rise above our fears. Being direct and kind are equally important when communicating with horses. The Yin and Yang of effective communication between horse and human is as powerful as it is beautiful as the relationship deepens.
Mindful Equine Therapy™ is available as part of Susan’s Inner Peace Coaching programs and retreats. For more information on this unique and transformative style of therapy, please schedule a complimentary call with Susan today.
Mindful Equine Therapy for Kiddos: Supporting Children’s Well-being with Research-Proven Benefits
Did you know that kids can also benefit from Mindful Equine Therapy?
Mindful Equine Therapy combines the healing power of horses with mindfulness practices to support children’s emotional well-being. This therapeutic intervention has been extensively researched and proven to provide significant benefits to children struggling with trauma, grief and loss, autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and ADHD. In this webpage and brochure, we will explore why Mindful Equine Therapy is an effective treatment option and how it can positively impact children’s lives.
Understanding Equine Therapy
Research-Proven Benefits
Trauma, Grief, and Loss
Children who have experienced trauma, grief, and loss often struggle with emotional regulation and trust issues. Equine Therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), improve emotional regulation, and enhance resilience. The presence of horses and the therapeutic activities help children process their emotions, develop coping strategies, and experience healing.
Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome
Children on the autism spectrum, including those with Asperger’s, often face challenges in social interactions, communication, and sensory processing. Equine Therapy provides a unique and engaging environment that supports their specific needs. Interacting with horses helps children improve social skills, enhance non-verbal communication, and develop sensory integration. The rhythmic motion and touch of the horse also have a calming effect, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
ADHD
Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often struggle with impulse control, focus, and hyperactivity. Equine Therapy offers a structured and stimulating environment that promotes self-regulation and attention. The responsibility of caring for and riding a horse requires focus, patience, and discipline, leading to improved concentration and self-control in children with ADHD.
Mindfulness and Equine Therapy
Mindful Equine Therapy™ Research & Resources
If you’d told me a few months ago that a horses at Thrive Farm Ga named JW could help my soul to heaI, I would have said you’d lost it… but turns out I was the one who was lost and I didn’t even know it!! Until the first time JW looked at me… with those big brown eyes full of honesty & compassion. It was as if he whispered, “Hi Heather, I see you.” ❤️🐎🥰 I highly recommend as well as equine therapy to also incorporate the mindfulness coaching! Susan has a heart for helping people on their own journey to finding inner peace!
– Heather
It was not happenstance that I booked a stay at a described beautiful animal farm for my children and myself. While there, I inquired about equine therapy for my children. Immediately, they enjoyed not just the horses but the goats, and the many dogs and cats. All incredibly friendly, which I believe is a direct correlation to their safe and joyful environment!
Little did I know I would come to greatly benefit from Susan’s expertise. I often forget her vast experience and gained knowledge from school teacher and principal, mother of 2, owner and main conductor of her farm, counseling, local community services, and life trials seems to parallel a few years apart. Susan was, and always will be there for her clients. She is passionate about getting them to cross the chasm from self defeat to self worth, always learning and growing. There were times life’s trials seem to knock me down faster than I could get up, but Susan never judged me and instead gave me an encouraging message often needed as much as air. I am forever grateful for the time, knowledge, and energy she poured into me even when I did not have any to respond. She never gave up on me and at a time when I felt more alone in my 40 years on this earth, what a blessing to have that. For such a time is this. I love you and am thankful for you!