What is Equine Connections?
EFL is a process by which children and adults learn about themselves, other people and the world through interactions with horses. It is a ground based activity, and is not about teaching riding. It has applications for a wide range of individuals, including those who have difficulty fitting into the real world.
EFL is gaining popularity worldwide as a means of helping children and adults with a range of social, emotional and developmental disabilities (such as Autism ) or mental illness ( depression). The benefits of the experience with horses are often profound. Children with ASD will focus on the horse for long periods of time even thought they have difficulty focusing tin their everyday lives. Once children understand how to ask for and receive cooperation from the horse, their self esteem and confidence goes sky- high. For a child or young adult who has limited control of their own environment, EFL can be very empowering , providing communication and relationship skills and teaching responsibility , respect , trust and self control.
How does EFL work?
When working with humans, horses act like a mirror – they cannot lie, they simply reflect back to us our emotions, energy levels and communications. As they are prey animals, they have an overriding instinct to feel safe. They will become fearful if in the presence of aggressive , noisy or over controlling person, yet they are constantly searching for a leader to help them feel safe.
EFL teaches children the importance of body language, gestures, breathing and voice it shows them how to build relationships based on trust and respect – all taught through practical lessons working with a horse.
What does it Cost?
$60.00 per person/per hour for private lesson
$40.00 per person/per hour in a group
How do I arrange a session?
Ring or email Gini to arrange a time
during or after school time, some weekends available
Jess and Gini Eagle at Pegasus Riding for the Disabled
Hayley Jumping