How can a horse teach you about yourself?

Posted November 25, 2015

How can a horse teach you about yourself?

By understanding why and how horses are aware of every movement, you will come to know how effective equine-assisted learning programs are to finding success.

By Kari Fulmek

Marketing the idea that horses can empower people was an uphill climb when I first started my business Equine Connection in 2009.

The whole premise of experiential learning has only come into the spotlight in more recent years.
The factor that is probably the most important in understanding how it all works is to remember that horses are prey animals. By their nature, they live totally in the moment, watching every movement and every nuance around them to react if they feel the need.

They respond to the stimulus they receive from the body language and participants need to adjust their inner feelings and behaviours to work successfully with the horses. If you utter a command to a horse but your voice lacks the conviction and your body language conveys hesitancy, they will ignore you.

The horse does not consider your motive or make adjustments for your behaviour as a human teacher does. They cannot be manipulated with clever words that cover hidden actions or motivations.

Their feedback is honest and instant. If they don’t want to be with you, they will simply walk away.

Because they are naturally herd animals as well, they also require trust and respect and teamwork.

If you try to dictate to them or your intent is not clear, they will be confused.

Like human beings, no one horse is just the same as another horse. You have to learn in different ways from different horses.

Historically in Indigenous cultures, the horse was considered the teller of truth. The spirit of the horse was believed to lead individuals in the right direction and assist people in finding their place in the circle of life.

By including horses in specially designed educational experiences, we can magnify the learning potential for our participants. As certified facilitators who listen to the horses’ non-verbal messages, we can gently walk our participants through a life-altering experience to lasting change and empowerment.

If you are at a crossroads in your life, or you are heading down a road that feels wrong on your life journey, you can find clarity through our programs. If you are considering a series of options and are finding it difficult to make a wise decision, you will also find the insight you are seeking.

Once you find the gift that is within you and bring it forward to use in your unique way, you will truly be empowered.




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