Hillview Equine Assisted Learning (HEAL)
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Self-discovery through the healing power of horses
Children learn about behaviour and build self confidence through interaction with horses.
Children learn about behaviour and build self confidence through interaction with horses.
What is it?
Hillview Equine Assisted Learning (HEAL) is an experiential type of therapy utilising the unique traits of horses to address the special emotional and mental health needs of children who have experienced trauma in their life.
HEAL is based on concepts used in the American EAGALA Model (Equine Assisted Growth & Learning Association), techniques applied in Hippotherapy (using equine movement as a tool), clinical research into the effectiveness of Equine Therapy and personal observation and experience of the positive results of human-equine interaction.
Why Horses?
Horses are experts at non-verbal communication and body language. They are constantly scanning the landscape for threat and act without hesitation if something is perceived as “out-of-balance”. Horses can read intent at a distance and respond to a person’s emotional state and behaviour immediately without judgement or criticism.
This provides instant biofeedback regarding a person’s mood, providing great opportunity for learning self-awareness and mindfulness. Furthermore, the horses honest reaction to a person’s body language, particularly cues of dominance, submission and cooperation forces students to become aware of the signals they are sending out and accountable for their actions.
Working with horses demands that we are observant, present, focussed and attentive – all valuable skills many people struggle with.
While learning how to care for and work with such large and powerful (yet gentle) animals, kids learn to respect other living beings and become aware of and responsible for their actions, as well as gaining self-confidence and growing self-esteem.
Aims
HEAL aims at providing children the opportunity of the genuine connection with other creatures (horses in particular), grow in confidence, boost self-esteem as well as teaching mindfulness, communication and problem solving skills. In a safe and non-threatening environment children are given the opportunity of key “take-away” experiences, which can begin to make lifelong positive changes in their lives.
Contact us
For enquiries and bookings contact Sabine Jamieson (Manager)
Ph: 0409594238
E-mail: HillviewEquine@Gmail.com
Additionally, take a look at a recent article posted about Hillview Equine Assisted Learning posted in the Maitland Aurora at the following link: http://aurora.realviewtechnologies.com/?iid=105533#&startpage=16
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