Harnessing the Healing Power of Horses
Discover the remarkable bond between horses and veterans in the journey towards healing from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
In this blog post, we delve into the transformative effects of equine therapy, shedding light on how horses help veterans self-manage anxiety levels and restore their self-confidence. Let's explore the profound impact these majestic creatures have on the lives of our hidden and lost heroes.
1. Horses as Mirrors of Mental Behaviors:
Horses possess innate mental behaviors that resonate with veterans experiencing PTSD. Their hyper-alertness to surroundings and hyper-reactivity to potential threats create a unique connection with veterans. As herd animals, horses are constantly vigilant, watching for danger. They possess an extraordinary ability to "read" anxiety in humans, detecting fear, anxiety, and anger like no other animal or human can.
2. Teaching Self-Management of Anxiety:
Through their heightened sensitivity to human anxiety, horses become invaluable teachers for veterans. When working with a horse, a veteran's high anxiety triggers the horse's jumpiness, perceiving a threat in the environment. To create a calm and productive partnership, veterans are encouraged to employ various anxiety-reducing techniques. The immediate feedback from the horse reinforces the importance of self-managing anxiety levels, leading to a newfound understanding and control over their internal anxieties.
3. Renewed Self-Confidence:
For veterans whose lives have been shattered by PTSD, the gift of self-management brings about a profound transformation. Many veterans have lost relationships, struggled at work, and isolated themselves due to their condition. The success they achieve in calming their anxiety with their horse instills a renewed sense of self-confidence. Witnessing this transformation in their eyes and behavior after just a few lessons is truly inspiring. Veterans regain the ability to pursue education, employment, and relationships, reclaiming their lives once again.
4. Assertiveness and Leadership:
Horses' focus on leadership within their herd translates into their interactions with humans. They test the authority of the veteran, gently pushing boundaries to determine who holds the role of the leader. Through natural horsemanship training and groundwork, veterans learn to establish their leadership over the horse. This process fosters assertiveness without fear or anger, further boosting their self-confidence and empowering them to navigate relationships with newfound strength.
5. Addressing the Therapy Gap:
Sadly, a significant number of veterans with PTSD are unable to access therapy due to its traumatic nature. The therapy offered by the VA, although effective, can be overwhelming for veterans already struggling with fragile mental states. As a result, many veterans avoid therapy altogether, perpetuating the cycle of suffering. Equine therapy provides a viable alternative, offering a gentle yet powerful approach to healing that resonates with veterans who have been failed by traditional methods.
Conclusion:
The healing power of horses is undeniable. As our nation grapples with the epidemic of PTSD, it is crucial to recognize the potential of equine therapy in saving lives and restoring hope for our veterans. By supporting and implementing veteran horse programs worldwide, we can ensure that every hero has access to this unique and transformative form of healing. Let us stand together and honor our national heroes by providing them with the support they deserve.
"Then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away." - Isaiah 35