EQUINE Facilitated LEARNING (EFL)
Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) programs are designed to provide activities to promote self-awareness and wellness practices, self-confidence, responsibility, working cooperatively, communication, creativity, leadership, relationship building, problem solving, skill development, emotional regulation, and new learning through hands-on activities. Individual or group “coaching” or skill building which is not characterized as “mental health” or “therapy” is targeted. By working with the horses in creative, insightful, and fun ways, participants work on their targeted goals. While not considered therapy, these sessions can be therapeutic in nature being conducted by an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. EFL programs can be a one-time offering, span two to three sessions, be delivered as a block of 8-10 sessions, or be on-going as needed. Those who can benefit include students, business owners, sports teams, clubs, church groups, office teams, veterans, active duty military and their families, law enforcement, medical personnel, first responders, caregivers and community groups. Group size ideally not to exceed 25 participants for two facilitators.
EMPOWERED HORSEMANSHIP
The foundation for Empowered Horsemanship is the connection between the horse and human. Connection is fostered through trust-building activities and interactions which are reinforced through specific horsemanship skill-building exercises. Empowered Horsemanship enables participants to connect their mind, body, and spirit within themselves, and with others, as they learn how to communicate with a prey animal partner. While targeted horsemanship ground skills are taught in a sequential manner, the relationship between the horse and the participant is the priority. Relationship building principles are used throughout with application to build not just the horse human bond, but also relationships with other creatures and individuals once the learner leaves the farm. We become empowered when we learn the lessons the horse has to teach us.
Horsemanship incorporates the principles of Natural Lifemanship, and well-known Natural Horsemanship trainers such as Pat and Linda Parelli, Chris Irwin, and Clinton Anderson. The stronger the horse human relationship is, the less correction is needed as new skills are introduced. Empowered horsemanship always begins with work on the ground and may naturally progress to mounted work, which may include synchronized riding - if deemed appropriate for both horse and client, or more traditional riding lessons. Connecting with a horse in nature while enjoying the serenity of the outdoors can be such a fulfilling spiritual and relational experience, whether that includes riding or not. Empowered lessons are essential for beginners, helpful for long time horse owners who are dealing with difficult behavior and training issues, or for those who have recently gotten back into horses or have purchased a new horse. Individuals who have previously been injured or are fearful of horses can be assured they are in safe and caring hands as they step out of their comfort zone to build connection, regain lost skills, and learn new ways of working with a horse. No one should be denied the friendship of a horse because of an underlying fear. Your journey with horses can take many different paths, with each leading to a greater appreciation for life in all its fullness. Let the Hoofprint Meadows staff help guide you on your path.
Mental health with horses
Mental Health with Horses at Hoofprint Meadows is a medically based program of therapy which incorporates the core principals of Natural Lifemanship, a trauma-focused model of therapy, to help those with specific mental health goals. Services are provided by a two to three-person facilitation team, consisting minimally of a licensed mental health counselor, and an equine professional, working together with our equine partners. Additional professionals in the fields of education and health and wellness offer professional services to support our team as needed. Since time spent in nature is scientifically proven to provide healing, therapy takes place in several of our outdoor, serene spaces to include the arena, round pens, walking trails, and barn areas. Possible candidates for therapy are those with PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationship concerns, fears and phobias, and social-emotional struggles. Horses serve as a built-in barometer for us taking full measure of our energy, emotions, and even intentions. Because of their acute sensitivity to their surroundings, both human and environmental, horses provide powerful feedback which is real-time, non-judgmental, and brutally honest. This allows for greater personal insight to get us “unstuck” from our unhealthy life choices and toxic circumstances so that we can make the needed changes to move forward to a more healthy and fulfilling life.
A referral is not needed; however, group and/or individual intake assessments are required to determine suitability for this experiential mental health program before therapy can start. Services are offered year-round, barring extreme weather conditions and some holidays.
HORSEMANSHIP 101
Horsemanship 101 is a 10-session instruction package for those new to horses. It is offered to ages 8 and above, fully customized to meet the needs and goals of each individual. Each week, a new concept is introduced with subsequent weeks building on each other, culminating in a first ride experience, in either English or Western style. For individuals with little or no experience with horses, Horsemanship 101 covers a variety of topics and skills critical for beginning horse enthusiasts to know, so that they are guaranteed a positive and safe introduction to horses.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Basic care & handling
Establishing trust & building a relationship
Feeding & nutrition
Grooming
Saddling
Leading
Tack & equipment terminology
Ground training exercises
Basic riding instruction
MINI SQUAD ACTIVITIES
Our miniature horse team of Dillon and Dusty provide many of the same benefits as their full-size counterparts, only in a smaller package. With outgoing personalities, intelligence, and kind dispositions, they make perfect companions and training partners. While the minis are too small to be ridden, they contribute greatly to the equine assisted learning activities and horsemanship training offered at Hoofprint Meadows. Their calm and patient demeanor, curiosity, and willingness to interact with persons of all ages and abilities, makes them a favorite on the farm. The minis enjoy walking the nature trails, playing on the obstacle course, and especially being petted and pampered. Just spending time with them will bring a smile to your face, help you relax, and learn new skills in a safe and fun way. Individuals of all ages with special needs, PTSD, and chronic illnesses can benefit from a session with the minis. Please note the minis are mobile if you wish to have them for a visit. Additional travel expenses may be incurred for roundtrips over 25 miles, or you can set up a visit to interact with the Mini Squad at their home here at Hoofprint Meadows.