Horse Harmony

HopeThruHorses works with Foundations, a charity based in London and directed by psychologist Mary Wood. The charity organises trips to the country for small groups of emotionally and physically disadvantaged young people. The youngsters spend time with our herd of easy - going horses and ponies, grooming touching and leading them around.

The bond between horse and participant facilitates a relaxed, emotional shift that promotes self-awareness, confidence, communication and learning. The young people form a silent and powerful bond with these accepting, gentle, non-judgmental creatures. This is particularly significant for autistic children as they find communicating and relating to others particularly difficult to achieve.

Use of the senses

Horses use all their senses all of the time and at HopeThruHorses we work on showing the children how to do the same. Out in the open countryside we bring all the feelings, sounds, sights, smells and tastes to their attention, revelling in each one individually and as a whole.  Encouraging the children to open up their senses in this way, allows them the freedom to value and live their lives to the full, every second of every day.

Horses communicate silently; for many young people with difficulties, making themselves understood is sometimes a huge strain. The silence of the horse and the absence of any expectations can be a great comfort, taking away that pressure. Autistic children can often relate to horses in an extraordinary and healing way.

Freedom

The children enjoy a day of being free. They partake of good and healthy food in the fresh and open air and become familiar with one of nature’s most amazing animals, the horse.

Children find the freedom to be themselves in a natural and accepting environment, an amazing experience: one that opens their eyes. They see that they are wonderful, whole and fulfilled human beings with an affinity with nature, animals and the beauty that surrounds us.

To find out more about how we can help you:

  Call on 07780 675112

  Or email jo@hopethruhorses.com