Equine assisted coaching is a powerful tool that, in its simplest form, allows horses to be the teachers. Horses are masters of living in the present, and they have so much to teach us. They communicate very effectively if we can stay present and open ourselves to the way they communicate.

WHY HORSES?

Horses are prey animals. This means that they are attuned to their environment for the smallest crack of a branch, the most stealthy padded paw step, and the shifting energy of their herd. When one horse notices danger or change, the others are swift to pick up on this, without a single word spoken. As we integrate horses into our lives and our “herds” they are just as swift to pick up on changes in our energy. While most of us are not being chased by a mountain lion on a day to day basis, we fight internal predators like doubt, shame, and anxiety. These predators can plague our day to day living, and we are often left without the internal tool kit to deal with them.

Equine-assisted coaching works because it leverages the unique qualities of horses to facilitate personal growth and emotional insight. Horses are highly sensitive, intuitive animals that respond to non-verbal cues, allowing them to mirror a person’s emotional state. This immediate feedback helps individuals become more self-aware and present in the moment. Additionally, working with horses in a non-judgmental, natural environment can reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and foster trust and connection. Through this interaction, individuals often gain a deeper understanding of their emotions, behavior patterns, and interpersonal skills, making equine-assisted coaching an effective tool for personal development.