April is National Stress Awareness Month, and so we ask… How are you truly holding up amidst life’s challenges? In a world where stress often feels like a constant companion, It’s a question worth pondering.
It’s important we prioritize our mental well-being and explore avenues of support when needed. Guided by trained professionals, horses can help us do that. Horses aid us in finding new ways of connecting with our daily lives and emotions so we can process and transform the way we respond to stressful stimuli.
A horse, a therapist, and a healing heart take a transformative step forward…
“I went into this experience not knowing what to expect. I was a little skeptical to say the least. I spent two days working hard and realizing that hard work does pay off. As we moved forward, the time was more and more advantageous to me. We were able to focus on those areas that have held me back for a good part of my life. Each step that I took during this process, I was supported by the horses that were there with me. Take this step, it will make a difference in the way you see yourself and your life.“
– Client from Hold the Line Services
So why horses?
Horses create a nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients can feel safe and accepted. They offer direct feedback through their responses to our actions, guiding us in understanding what works and what doesn’t.
In mental health services that incorporate horses, trained professionals facilitate profound connections between humans and horses, promoting mental resilience and well-being. This enables us to explore our emotional responses with new perspectives and embark on a path toward healing.
Despite their intimidating size, it is commonly reported by clients that they feel safe, connected and peaceful when in the presence of horses. It is through this, whether on the ground or riding, that horses help people regulate emotions.
Working with horses provides an opportunity for relationship-building that can rewrite past trauma stories and provide present-moment connection.
As we navigate the complexities of life, remember there are resources available to help us manage stress and prioritize our mental well-being. Practice meditation or mindfulness to help alleviate stress. Spend time with your horse, family, and friends, or simply take time to connect with nature.
This National Stress Awareness Month, let’s amplify the healing power of horses and embark on a journey of self-discovery and resilience to prioritize your mental health.
You can find a list of 80 nonprofits across 36 states that offer
quality mental health and well-being services with horses here.
Read about the power of horses in more depth
with accompanying peer-reviewed research here.
You can also find a collection of stories illustrating
the transformational power of horses here.
Take Action: Join the Seen Through Horses Campaign
Our 80 Seen Through Horses Charity Partners will be fundraising during Mental Health Awareness Month in May, and we encourage you to join us in raising awareness and critical funds for these incredible programs.
We invite you to join us in the Seen Through Horses Campaign, running from May 1st to May 31st. Together, let’s amplify awareness of the healing power of horses and support nonprofit organizations in their mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals on their journey toward healing.
Together we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals on their journey toward healing.
