Equine Assisted Activities, Lessons, and Ideas for Growth and Learning
Equine-assisted therapy is a powerful approach to mental health and personal development that allows individuals to engage with horses in meaningful ways. Unlike traditional therapy models, equine-assisted learning focuses on experiential activities that help participants develop emotional awareness, communication skills, and confidence. Through structured equine-assisted psychotherapy activities with horses, individuals can gain insights into their behaviors, emotions, and relationships in real life.
Equine-Assisted Reflections and Explorations for Growth and Learning
In equine-assisted psychotherapy, it’s not about doing a set activity—it’s about what shows up. Horses, as responsive and emotionally attuned partners, help reflect a client’s internal world in real-time. Guided by the client’s own words, goals, and emotional state, sessions unfold in the moment—rich with metaphor, movement, and discovery.
While experiential in nature, equine-assisted work using the Eagala Model does not follow a scripted series of exercises. Instead, the mental health professional and equine specialist work together as a co-facilitating team, allowing the client’s interactions with the horses to lead the process. At times, a structured activity may emerge—particularly when it resonates with the client’s current therapeutic goals or metaphors. But more often, the setting itself—a pasture, an arena, a moment of connection—is what invites insight.
In this blog, we’ll offer a few adaptable ideas that can support metaphorical exploration, emotional awareness, and personal growth—if and when they align with the client’s therapeutic path. These examples are not prescriptions, but possibilities—ways of thinking about the space we hold, the behaviors we observe, and the powerful moments that arise when horses are partners in the process.
Why Equine-Assisted Therapy Works
Horses are highly intuitive animals that respond to human emotions and behaviors. Their ability to mirror feelings and react to nonverbal cues makes them excellent partners in therapy. Unlike traditional therapy modalities that rely on conversation, equine therapy provides an interactive, hands-on approach that fosters self-awareness and emotional growth.
Some of the benefits of equine-assisted learning include:
- Improved communication and interpersonal skills
- Increased emotional regulation and self-control
- Development of problem-solving and leadership abilities
- Enhanced confidence and self-esteem
- Strengthened teamwork and collaboration skills
Equine-Assisted Therapy Activities
Now, let’s explore specific equine-assisted activities, games, and lesson plans that mental health professionals and equine specialists can use to facilitate meaningful experiences.
- Body Language Awareness Exercise
- Setting Up an Obstacle Course
- Equine-Facilitated Leadership Activity
- Equine-Assisted Teamwork Challenge
- Therapeutic Horseback Riding for Emotional Regulation
- Equine-Assisted Reflection & Journaling
Body Language Awareness Exercise
Since horses rely heavily on nonverbal communication, this exercise teaches participants how their body language influences interactions with others.
How It Works
Participants take turns standing near the horse without using words. They observe how the horse’s behavior changes in response to their stance, energy level, and facial expressions. The mental health professional or facilitator helps participants reflect on how their body language affects both horses and people in their daily lives.
Key Takeaways
- Awareness of nonverbal communication
- Understanding how emotions impact interactions
- Recognizing personal boundaries and comfort levels
Setting Up an Obstacle Course
An obstacle course is an engaging way to encourage problem-solving, trust, and teamwork. It also mirrors real-life challenges and helps participants develop resilience.
How It Works
The facilitator designs a course with cones, poles, barrels, and other objects placed around the side of the arena to create different challenges. Participants, working in teams observing and supporting each other, must guide their horse through the course using a lead rope without force or verbal commands. At the end, the group discusses their strategies, emotions, and challenges during the exercise.
Key Takeaways
- Building trust and patience
- Enhancing teamwork and leadership skills
- Practicing problem-solving in stressful situations
Equine-Facilitated Leadership Activity
This activity encourages participants to take charge in a nonverbal yet effective way, reinforcing confidence and assertiveness.
How It Works
Participants practice leading the horse through various exercises, such as weaving between cones or stopping at designated points. They must rely on body positioning and energy rather than pulling on the lead rope. The riding instructor or facilitator offers feedback on how effectively they communicate with their horse.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening leadership skills
- Understanding personal energy and presence
- Developing patience and adaptability
Equine-Assisted Teamwork Challenge
This activity involves working in pairs or small groups to complete a task with a horse, fostering cooperation and shared responsibility.
How It Works
Participants are divided into teams observing and working together to lead their horses through a specific challenge, such as maneuvering through a narrow pathway or backing up between poles. Each team member takes on a role, such as leading, supporting, or observing. The group reflects on how they communicated and worked together.
Key Takeaways
- Developing cooperation and trust
- Recognizing the importance of clear communication
- Learning to manage frustration and challenges
Equine-Assisted Reflection & Journaling
Writing about experiences with horses can deepen self-awareness and solidify the lessons learned.
How It Works
After participating in an activity, individuals take a moment to write down their thoughts and feelings about their interactions with horses. Prompts may include: What did you learn about yourself today? How did the horse respond to you? What emotions surfaced during the exercise? The facilitator discusses key insights in a group setting.
Key Takeaways
- Deepening emotional awareness
- Strengthening reflection skills
- Encouraging personal growth and mindfulness
FAQs About Equine-Assisted Therapy Activities
What is equine-assisted therapy, and how does it work?
Equine-assisted therapy involves structured equine-facilitated activities that help individuals develop emotional awareness, confidence, and social skills. Participants engage in interactive exercises with horses that reflect real-life challenges and personal growth.
Do I need prior horse experience to participate in equine-assisted learning?
No, equine-assisted activities, lessons, and ideas are designed for individuals of all experience levels. The focus is on personal development rather than riding skills.
What’s the difference between equine-assisted learning and therapeutic horseback riding?
Equine-assisted learning focuses on ground-based activities, while therapeutic horseback riding involves mounted exercises designed to enhance physical and emotional well-being.
What role do mental health professionals play in equine-assisted therapy?
A mental health professional co-facilitates sessions alongside an equine specialist, ensuring participants gain meaningful insights from their interactions with horses in a safe and supportive environment.
How can equine-assisted therapy help with mental health challenges?
By engaging in hands-on activities, participants develop self-awareness, regulate emotions, and improve communication skills, making equine therapy an effective alternative to traditional therapy modalities.
How can I become involved in equine-assisted therapy as a professional?
If you are a mental health professional or equine specialist, consider pursuing certification through Eagala to learn how to facilitate equine-assisted learning sessions effectively.
Take the Next Step—Join an Eagala Event!
If you’re a mental health professional or equine specialist looking to expand your skills and make a greater impact, now is the time to explore Eagala’s training programs. These hands-on workshops provide the knowledge and experience needed to integrate equine-assisted learning into your practice, offering clients a unique and effective therapeutic approach.
Through expert-led instruction, you’ll learn to work as a co-facilitating team, harnessing the power of horses’ behavior to support personal growth and mental health treatment.
Take the next step in your professional journey by attending an Eagala training event. Gain valuable insights, connect with like-minded professionals, and experience firsthand the transformative nature of equine-facilitated therapy. Visit our events page to see where and when we’ll be training and start your path toward certification!