Welcome to Passion Stables
 Equine Assisted Learning

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) program is a unique experiential learning process which promotes mindfulness and helps reconnect people to the present moment. Being in the present moment allows our body to reduce anxious thoughts and challenge long held automatic thoughts.  Being in the presence of the horses provides a gentle quietness, slows the pace of learning, offers time to think and process, while providing a deeper sense of belonging.

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The EAL programs we offer are interactive with horses and are based on the proven and researched success of Equine Assisted Learning (EAL). The beautiful, well-trained horses provide a neutral, non-judgmental, non-threatening environment promoting self-esteem, confidence, trust and most importantly self-belief and self-worth. By partnering together on the ground with a horse, you can build valuable life skills through validated hands-on experience.

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Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) focuses on social and emotional learning for children and youth, emotional regulation, personal development and parenting skills for adults, all through the context of being with horses. We use a mindfulness-based experiential learning model that includes focus on grounding and centering, breathing, slowing down and connecting with the body and the mind, regulating emotions and responses, and recognizing how our behaviors, communications, actions impact our equine partners (and humans as well).  The program teaches self-awareness, self-management of emotions and behaviors, relationship building skills, responsible decision making and, social awareness by creating empathy, again, all in the presence and context of horses. This program works well for most people and is especially appropriate for those who are not ready or are not a candidate for psychotherapy, or who are not old enough for psychotherapy. EAL is open to adults, teens and children over 8.  

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Equine-assisted learning is an excellent approach to personal development for various reasons. Working with horses allows individuals to improve verbal and non-verbal communication, self-assurance, confidence, coping strategies, and mindfulness while reflecting on exercises with the horses and observing how they behave [1]. Additionally, the practice enables participants to develop self-awareness at an emotional level, improve problem-solving and decision-making skills, and learn from their mistakes in a non-judgmental environment [2]. The experiential nature of working with horses in a non-riding setting facilitates emotional learning, which leads to meaningful personal growth and transformation [3]. What's more, research suggests that spending time with horses has calming effects that reduce stress and anxiety while improving attention and focus [1]. Equine assisted learning also allows participants to transfer leadership and communication skills learned while working with horses to other areas of life, such as work and personal relationships [4].

In summary, equine-assisted learning approach provides a unique and holistic approach to personal development that enhances emotional intelligence, communication, and leadership skills, while reducing stress and anxiety. It serves as an effective method for promoting self-awareness and personal growth while fostering experiential learning [3].

Sources:

1. https://vet.tufts.edu/news-events/news/can-equine-assisted-learning-help-students-reduce-stress/

2. https://hilltophorizons.org/equine-assisted-learning/

3. https://researchoutreach.org/articles/understanding-equine-assisted-interventions-role-emotional-learning/

4. https://journals.aom.org/doi/abs/10.5465/AMBPP.2021.12372abstract