Question 1

Who Do You Work With?

Accepted Answer

Our programs are designed for women who feel overwhelmed or burnt out, women in need of support through shelters, couples and families, and men and women walking the path of addiction recovery across Southwestern Ontario.

If you fall outside the scope of these markets, please contact us (https://www.touchofmaple.ca/contact)to see what's possible!

Question 2

Why Do We Partner or Work With Horses?

Accepted Answer

Horses are tough and steadfast dance partners. They consistently react to the stimulus provided by the participants. Some of the joys associated with partnering with horses are that they don't judge, and they constantly assess. Their feedback is honest and instant. Listening to what they have to say is powerful and may spur the individual to change. By incorporating horses into specifically designed educational exercises, Equine Assisted Facilitators can help participants embark on a successful journey of self-discovery.

How do Horses do this?
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Horses respond and react to the stimulus of the people they are working with and respond immediately.  The Facilitator then has an opportunity to step-in to help identify and help things move forward. Horses don't overthink a participant's motive, but they will challenge their behaviour and leadership.

Question 3

What is Equine Assisted Learning?

Accepted Answer

Connect and let the horse speak to you so you can learn something about yourself.  The horse is the teacher and you are the student - thus Equine Assisted Learning:

Equine Assisted Learning is a learner-based educational, experiential experience with horses.

More specifically, it is an effective approach to human development that encourages individual and team growth. Participants engage in objectively driven exercises. They find themselves learning valuable life skills in a fun and exciting atmosphere while working with horses. Exercises are developed to encourage self-confidence through validated, hands-on experiences. Equine Assisted Learning has proven to be useful, powerful, positive, educational, and creative.
https://vimeo.com/1115900836/d0471154c3

Question 4

What is Tai Chi for Non-Riders?

Accepted Answer

Equine Tai Chi is a gentle practice that combines traditional Tai Chi movements with the presence of horses. Horses are naturally in tune with their energy, or “Chi,” and when we practice alongside them, they help us connect with our own flow of energy. This brings calm, balance, and awareness — both in the body and in the mind.

Question 5

What is Equestrian Tai Chi?

Accepted Answer

Equestrian Tai Chi is a gentle practice that blends traditional Tai Chi movements with the presence of horses. Horses are naturally in tune with their own energy, or “Chi,” and when we practice with them, they help us connect with our own flow. This can include Chi Gung exercises, meditations, and even connected Chi riding practices. The result is a calmer, more balanced, and more centered way of moving through life and riding your horse.

Question 6

What are Your Energy Re-Balancing Wellness & Balance Sessions?

Accepted Answer

Energy Rebalancing Sessions invite you to connect with a horse in a way that goes beyond words. Horses naturally sense the energy in and around us, and they respond with honesty and compassion. In these sessions, the horse “scans” your energy and helps you release stress, restore balance, and reconnect with yourself. Every session is unique, guided by what you need and how the horse responds.

Question 7

What Makes These Programs Credible? Is There Science Behind Them?

Accepted Answer

All programs were created and researched at three Canadian universities for five years:  University of Calgary, University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina. 
 
The "Building Block" (TM) curriculum was created.  The "Building Block" (TM) curriculum is basically a process where each program has an objective, yet all objectives are built into each program. We work with one solid objective at a time, and keep building on these skills each week, hence the "Building Block" (TM) curriculum. Building skills for life!
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Please click on the link below to see the full manuscript entitled:
"The Helping Horse:  How Equine Assisted Learning Contributes to the Wellbeing of First Nations Youth in Treatment for Volatile Substance Misuse".

Question 8

Are These Horseback Riding Programs?

Accepted Answer

No, this is not a horseback riding program. Our programs are all done on the ground alongside the horse, there is no horseback riding involved.

Question 9

Do You Require a Therapist to be Present? Is This Equine Therapy?

Accepted Answer

No, and that’s what makes it so unique. This isn’t therapy. This is life skills development. You won’t be asked to talk through your past or label your experiences. Instead, the horse and facilitator help guide you to your own insight through real, in-the-moment learning. Many people do find it deeply therapeutic, but the transformation comes from your own inner discoveries, not from being told what to do.

*Note: Our programs can pair beautifully with other therapeutic supports if you’re working with a professional, but they stand strong on their own. It’s a natural fit offering clients a powerful, hands-on way to apply what the skills they’ve been working on.

Question 10

Do I Need to Have Experience With Horses?

Accepted Answer

No, our programs do not require prior experience. We will provide an in-depth orientation and always have a facilitator present in the arena to ensure your safety. Our number one goal is always to prioritize safety, and we will accommodate your comfort level around the horses.

Question 11

Do I Need to Wear Certain Clothing?

Accepted Answer

Although cowboy hats and boots aren’t required, we do have certain safety requirements when it comes to your clothing. Simple things like closed-toed shoes and wearing comfortable clothes that you are okay with getting a little dusty. Dress in layers as some of our programs are outside.

Question 12

What if I'm Allergic?

Accepted Answer

Knowing is half the battle! We recommend bringing an antihistamine with you, as we do not carry any on-site.

Question 13

Are You Certified & Insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We have been trained by and are certified through Equine Connection - The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning,(http://equineconnection.ca/) hold a certificate from Equus Empowered in Theory and Integrative Practice, (https://www.leahdyck.com/online-courses)am a certified Equestrian Tai Chi Instructor,(http://www.equestriantaichi.com/) and a Level 1 and 2 Reiki Practitioner for people and horses, and backed by The EAL Network (https://www.ealnetwork.com/)a leading organization in this specific skills development program with horses. Additionally, we carry extensive liability insurance.
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*Over ten years have passed, and Equine Connection now has over 300 certified facilitators. The programs continue to help all types of people:  women, families, youth, men, couples, corporate groups, addictions recovery groups, veterans, etc., anyone will benefit from these amazing programs! Equine Connection also continues to create specialty groups of programs to target the more specific skills development of the many groups mentioned above.

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