Equine Assisted Learning 

On November 21-22nd I hosted a weekend with Tricia Day from the UK, to learn more about Equine Assisted Learning at my property near Inverell.

Tricia along with Marilyn Harvy, travelled to Inverell all the from Broken Hill where Marilyn lives, to facilitate the course for us. There were eight of us doing the course, all from varying backgrounds but all interested in the horse and helping people.

Tricia didn't give away much as to what we were to expect for the weekend, it was really a journey for the individual and she prefered that we start with no expectations. I really liked that, it really made us think.

We did a lot of role playing which was so interesting, everyone had a go and I was quite surprised how each person really got into the character and how the horses responded.

I can see how, just by watching the horse, we can help others. I thought it would be different, I thought there must be a catch, so I kept thinking I was doing things wrong, but as it turns out, there is no right or wrong, its purely an 'in the moment' experience. 

Eight of my horses were our equine facilitators over the weekend and they really seemed to enjoy being around us. I personally found it fascinating watching my horses, knowing their personalities and seeing how they reacted with different people. It was also pretty amazing how the person doing the role play picked the perfect horse for the role... or did the horse pick them?

Whichever way, it was a wonderful experience to watch the horses and how they helped facilitate and often, instigate the next move. I now look at horses differently. They tell us so much but we often don't listen to them, this workshop made me open my eyes and look further than I usually do. 

Tricia was an excellent teacher and though she didn't tell us what to do she certainly set us up to think about things. The weekend was a great experience. It also brought with it its own peace which showed in the participants and the horses. The whole weekend was such a personal learning experience as we questioned ourselves and our belief system, it also caused us to look at how we treat and judge others on our own expectations and values. Such an important thing to do.

I will now pursue a path in Equine Assisted Therapy/Learning as I can see the benefits for not only people that need help but for the growing experience that it offers the individual and the great appreciation that I have for the horse in his role with the human. Its a very exciting proposition.

If anyone is interested in finding out more about Equine Assisted Qualifications click on this link to go to Tricia's website where you'll find lots of information and case studies.  www.equineassistedqualifications.com

My sister Jen and I will be working together to get started on this exciting path. I will keep you posted with our progress 

Cheers

Louise