FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding our skills development program with horses and the work we do at Power Equine. However, if you don’t find the answer you are looking for, please give us a call or send us a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
WHY DO WE WORK WITH HORSES?
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The single most asked question is, why do we work with horses?
The number reason we work with horses is because they are a prey animal!
In a horse’s world, the rules are clear, easy to understand and dealt with swiftly when challenged. Nature provides them with instincts and senses that are very astute. For their mere survival, a wild horse must be aware of their surroundings at all times and be quick to react. They watch for the slightest movement, especially threatening body posture. Horses know how to discern the difference between a calm non-threatening approach and an anxious, nervous energy; immediately identifying individuals struggling internally.
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Participants are guided by the horses and facilitators to come to their own decisions and work on building life skills for where they are right now in their life! The horses help humans of all ages to move forward with their lives, to build skills and to truly tap into their potential!
As facilitators listen to a horse’s non-verbal communication, together, they have the ability to walk participants through to finding life-changing results.
By understanding why and how horses are aware of our every movement – you will come to understand how effective equine-assisted learning programs are to helping individuals of all ages on their path to increased self-awareness.
DO WE RIDE THE HORSES IN THIS PROGRAM?
There is NO riding the horses in this program! We partner with the horses ‘eye to eye’ in all sessions. Working on the ground with the horses allows the horses to react in a more natural state than when we are their backs. The relationship that we build with our teachers on the ground is completely different and allows for those teachable and life-changing moments! Since there is NO riding involved with this program previous horse or riding experience is not necessary! But trust us – non-horse people AND horse people have so much to learn from this program!!
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IS THIS THERAPY? ARE YOU A THERAPIST?
THIS IS NOT THERAPY. I am not a therapist; therefore, I cannot offer therapy. This program is ‘learner’ based as opposed to ‘therapy’ based. Participating in this program and being with the horses can a very therapeutic experience however. This program can be extremely beneficial and a great addition and complement traditional therapy programs.
WHAT IF I’M SCARED OF OR DON’T LIKE HORSES?
No worries! If you aren't being pushed out of your comfort zone, you aren't learning. This is an opportunity to overcome fears or preconceived notions. Some of the people who have attended our workshops have started out intimidated and scared of horses. By the end of the program, they have learned more about themselves, they have overcome their fears and walked out with life-changing results! Power Equine provides a safe and non-judgmental environment to help over come those fears.
DO I HAVE TO WEAR CERTAIN CLOTHING?
There is no special clothing required to take part in any of our programs. The only thing that we ask is that you wear closed toed shoes for safety while you are working with the horses. That could be running shoes, cowboy boots, or any other footwear that will keep your toes safe. Dress for the weather and leave your favourite clothes at home. The arena has beautiful sand for our horses to enjoy, and while they love it, you may get a little dusty!! Helmets are provided for youth.
ARE YOU CERTIFIED AND INSURED?
Yes! I have been trained by and certified through Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning, and backed by The EAL Network a leading organization in this specific skills development program with horses. Additionally, Power Equine carries extensive liability insurance.
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