Finding an Inner Rhythm through Equine Therapy
Published on 06 October 2020
An equine therapy program is helping people connect and learn about themselves, while strengthening their own psychological and emotional resources.
Located at Eddington, the Inner Rhythm experience uses the power of horses and nature to support people in slowing down and connecting deeply to themselves and the environment.
The skills that are learned can be used when faced with adversity and will help support in navigating life no matter the obstacles and challenges.
“Everyone can benefit from the program,” explains Inner Rhythm’s Jess Liston, a Communication and Emotional Resilience trainer.
“Participants might develop more hope, optimism and resilience – each group or individual will gain powerful lessons unique to them out of their experience.”
Through working with horses on the ground, people have to regulate their mental and emotional state to get the best response from the horses.
“The activities with horses are a great way to gain insight from the horses’ responses as to how you show up in the world,” says Jess.
“Horses can feel our heartbeat, so when we’re anxious our heartrate is up. You might be saying you’re okay – but your heartrate doesn’t match your words. The horse will feel this anxiousness – and will retreat to a safe place.”
Jess supports participants in learning techniques to quieten their mind and regulate their heart rhythms.
“Knowing where the horse is, is a visual clue. For example if your heartrate is up, the horse will stay away. However, once your heartrate has slowed down and you’re more relaxed, the horse will come to you,” explains Jess.
“There is no pretending with horses. Because they are herd animals and prey animals, they will go to the safest place for them. This is similar to people. We need that herd mentality to help us feel safe and secure.
“No matter what group, we all want to feel safe and secure and part of the herd, be it at work or school or any other group,” adds Jess.
“Through gaining this psychological safety, this gives people more confidence, including at work – for example, feeling more comfortable in speaking up about a deadline.
“The more comfortable people are within their workplace the happier they are and more invested in their organisation.”
According to Jess, those in management also learn a lot from the program.
“They get a feeling of what it means to be led by others, rather than leading. This allows them to empathise more with their employees and develop a strong and genuine rapport,” says Jess.
Programs at Inner Rhythm include their signature Horse HERO Worrier to Warrior six-week experience.
The life skills of Hope, Efficacy, Resilience, Optimism (HERO) is taught through theory, skill development and practical application out in nature with the horses.
The program can be adapted for anyone who wants to achieve a higher sense of understanding of themselves, develop resilience and strengthen their communication and relationships. This includes individuals, families, children, teenagers, community groups and businesses.
Half and full-day retreats are also available for teams, with groups able to set their schedule and activities.
“This might involve a two-hour activity with the horses, then outdoor meetings – anything can be tailored to a group’s or individual’s needs,” says Jess.
“It may be sitting around on hay bales having group discussions or celebrating getting through the challenges of COVID-19 while taking in the beautiful views from the property, which is on the Loddon River.
“There is shelter at the property, so weather isn’t an issue, and catering is available at the farm through licensed caterers.”
Social distancing and hygiene measures continue to be strictly adhered to, with COVID-safe plans also in place.
For those who are a bit unsure of being around horses, there is no need to be concerned as Jess creates a safe environment and allows people to participate on their terms.
“Everything is on the ground, there’s no riding,” explains Jess.
“And most people that come to us have no horse experience or are even interested in horses. This isn’t a problem as the horses are more of a tool to help people.”
According to Jess, participants leave the Inner Rhythm experience with newly-developed skills and life tools that can be adapted to help live a more balanced and congruent life.
“Now more than ever, everyone has been pushed to learn more about their mental and emotional wellbeing. The Inner Rhythm experience provides people with techniques that can be utilised in everyday living, ensuring that their days are less stressful, their minds are clearer and hearts are more content,” adds Jess.
To find out more about Inner Rhythm visit www.innerrhythm.com.au, their Facebook page www.facebook.com/innerrhythm.com.au or follow their Instagram inner_rhythm_consulting
You can also call Inner Rhythm on 0467 485 063 or email jess@innerrhythm.com.au