on stable...

I envisioned stable to be both a quality (steadfast, unwavering, enduring) and a place of healing potential with horses.

According to Miriam Webster, Stable:

-designed so as to develop forces that restore the original condition when disturbed from a condition of equilibrium 

-steady in purpose; firm in resolution

on grounding...

-to be present in the here and the now; to live life in this moment

In my EFMH practice, I uphold the following:

Purpose: “Encouraging the innate capacity within every client and animal, to move with curiosity towards flexibility, growth and healing”.

Values: Ethics, Respect, Safety, Curiosity, Collaboration, Unity, Hope

Why Horses?

For some, heading out of the traditional therapy office and into nature is a powerful alternative. EFW is based upon the relational connection between humans and horses which serves to support clients towards thriving through a one-step removed approach. If you are uncomfortable with talking to other people about your challenges, emotions, or other aspects of yourself, exploring connection to an animal can feel much safer. Clients sense the unconditional acceptance, non-judgement and genuineness of the horses which lays a foundation for ease of attachment and safe connection.

My approach to EFW is primarily somatic based and nurtures the wisdom of the body as providing bottom-up processing and insights. These can be experienced as movements, sensations, five sense perception, emotions, or cognitions. Grounded in the present moment, we are invited to sense into our energy and the neurobiological communication between us humans and the horses. 

You might wonder, what research informs EFW? Neurobiological and attachment research provide the evolutionary explanation of “biophilia”. This refers to the notion that humans have evolved with other animal species and thus, we seek connection to animals and nature. Humans and horses are mammals and our brains appear to be wired for attachment or connection. Being in relationship with the horses can provide regulation and a sense of grounding, security, and safety. Horses are particularly equipped to attune to the emotion state of humans, even if you might not be aware, or if you are attempting to suppress or repress things. Horses will share their sense of us through their reactions. This gives us pause to reflect and to engage in different experiments of being to see how this impacts the horses. 

The attachment basis to my EFW approach has been correlated with wellness outcomes including emotion regulation, ability to “be” and savour in the present moment, and fostering a sense of thriving beyond surviving in individuals’ everyday lives.

EFW is suitable for anyone experiencing issues with:

• Mood challenges

• Trauma

• Emotion regulation

• Interpersonal relationships

• Boundaries

• Self-esteem

• Grief and loss

Benefits Accruing from The Client-Horse Relationship Itself include:

• Less threatening than people, perceived or actual

• Requires less vulnerability at first

• Brings the client into the present moment, the here and now

• Facilitates positive connection and attachment

• Allows for safe physical touch and affection

• Within this relationship it may become safe for the client to be vulnerable/to let down some armour

• Can instill hope and a sense of purpose

• Can lead to a healthier relationship with self

• For full growth and development this relationship must transfer to people