Where
Event host
West Coast Centre for Learning
7788395515
[email protected]
Event Details
Equine Facilitated Wellness (EFW) – 9am – 12 pm for ages 10 – 13 years and 12:30 – 3:30 for ages 14-19 years
Equine Facilitated Wellness (EFW) is a therapeutic and educational approach that leverages interactions between humans and horses to promote personal growth, mental health, and learning. This method is deeply rooted in the unique non-verbal communication between horses and humans.
During each session, participants engage in specifically designed exercises alongside one or more horses, under the guidance of a skilled equine-assisted coach. The coach carefully observes the non-verbal communication between the horse and the participant, interpreting these interactions and guiding the learner through the process.
Equine-assisted sessions are rich with hands-on activities that may include grooming, walking, and occasionally riding the horses. These sessions employ experiential learning techniques such as role-playing, role-reversal, and mirroring, which allow participants to explore their emotions and behaviors in a supportive environment. Each activity is designed to foster a deeper understanding of self and improve personal interactions.
Participants in Equine Facilitated Wellness programs often experience significant benefits across various aspects of their lives. These benefits include enhanced self-esteem, improved communication skills, increased self-awareness, and greater relaxation and empowerment. Additionally, the interaction with horses, which are highly perceptive animals, provides participants with honest and immediate feedback on their emotional state and behavior. This feedback is invaluable as it is completely unbiased and non-judgmental, offering participants a unique perspective on their interactions and emotional expressions.
Equine Facilitated Wellness has proven to be a valuable neuroaffirming practice for individuals with various mental health conditions and developmental disorders. It is particularly beneficial for those with Autism Spectrum Disorders, as it enhances communication and social skills, while individuals with ADHD may notice improvements in focus and self-control. EFW also offers relief for those suffering from anxiety and depression, those with behavioral issues, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. Additionally, it is used to foster emotional awareness and impulse control, making it an excellent option for those facing emotional and behavioral disorders.
