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Why Horses?
Horses are consummate facilitators in the work of human development. The size of such an animal alone inspires a heightened state of awareness. These intelligent, sensitive creatures respond to both positive and negative changes in the handler's behavior, offering people constant feedback and timely rewards or consequences for their actions. Horses are social creatures that readily and honestly respond to the challenges inherent in forming and sustaining relationships. As animals that are preyed upon in nature, they have also retained a highly developed ability to sense changes in the stance and arousal levels of other herd members, an ability they easily transfer to interactions with human beings. Horses see through the slightest incongruities of emotion and intention, yet they are exceedingly patient and forgiving. Through a series of specially designed activities, participants deepen awareness of personal issues, core feelings and areas of bodily tension that inhibit their ability to reach their true potential. A tremendous boost in self-esteem and confidence comes from learning how to establish boundaries and direct a thousand pound creature through mental focus, creative visualization and clarity of intent. These skills, which can be difficult to teach in a conventional classroom or counseling session, have far ranging applications linked to increased success in personal relationships, career and parenting. Eventually, this work enables people to recognize and move beyond coping strategies associated with surviving in a competitive world as participants develop a thriving mindset capable of endless compassion, innovation, energy, adaptability, and creativity.
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