They are large and, for some, can be intimidating but they have also been proven to have a positive affect on those around them.
These four-legged creatures love to be cared for … curried, cleaned, fed, patted and hugged. At Miramichi Farms’ PRANCE, (Pegasus Riding Association Nurturing Challenged Equestrians) in Port Elgin, many with special physical and mental challenges have learned and grown through their association with the horses.
Now, PRANCE is able to offer the Equine Facilitated Wellness program, ‘Discover your Horse Power’, with mental health clinician and Equine Therapist, Rebecca Brown.
On Tuesday, November 9th, PRANCE returned to being a member of the Saugeen Shores giving a tour to Chamber of Commerce members and to introduce Brown and the Equine Facilitated Wellness service now being offered at Miramichi Farms.
Brown, who is on the faculty at Western University, has over 35 years of experience as a therapist and, as part of the ‘Eagala Network, is a certified Equine Specialist. “This program is all about ground work with horses and no riding or previous experience with horses is needed. Hands-on connection with horses increases self-awareness and confidence. The benefits help with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, addictions, self-esteem and many other mental challenges.”
While it has long been understood that spending time with animals and pets can have a positive effect on mood, new research suggests that horses may also have a sixth sense that can identify anxiety, stress, and fear in humans, thus helping individuals to identify these emotions in themselves.
Being around and handling horses can offer incredible benefits to those dealing with physical and mental health issues and has been proven to reduce stress levels. Research has also confirmed that equine therapy can lowers your blood pressure and heart rate and, often times, a horse will teach life skills better than a person.
“Additionally, horses are large and powerful and have the potential of allowing people to overcome fear and develop confidence that can be translated into real-life situations,” says Brown. “They can also help put people at ease because they’re unbiased and non-judgmental, responding only to people’s intent and behaviour.”
“People engage in activities such as grooming, feeding, and leading a horse while being supervised,” adds Brown. “The program is for all ages and we also hold corporate retreats, team building, women’s workshops and stress relief seminars.”
Brown conducts sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays and coverage is available through most insurance plans.
Discover your Horse Power
contact PRANCE at 519-832-2542 for more information
