Equine Facilitated Wellness

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Learn how stress, anxiety, or shutdown affect your body — and how to gently shift into a state of calm and connection.

Horses naturally respond to our body language and energy. Spending time with them helps us feel grounded, seen, and safe — without words.

You’re not alone. This is a space for kids, adults, veterans, first responders, and caregivers to come together, slow down, and reconnect.

Whether you're looking to manage stress, recover from burnout, or simply feel more balanced — this session offers tools, connection, and support in a peaceful, horse-filled setting.

What you will experience in this session:

With the Horses:

* We will create opportunities for calm, structured interaction with the horses (grooming, leading, observing)

* We will help participants notice how the horses respond to their body language and emotional state

* We will support a safe, non-riding engagement that fosters trust and connection.

With the Body (Somatic Practices):

* Participants will follow through grounding exercises (like noticing your breath, posture, or connection to the earth)

* Introduce gentle movement or stillness practices to help calm the body and mind

With the Nervous System (Polyvagal-Informed Tools):

* We will help attendees identify when they’re in “fight, flight, or freeze” — and offer tools to return to safety and connection

* We will offer ways to calm ourselves with the help of horses, others, or nature

We foster a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where everyone is invited to go at their own pace. 

Welcome to PonyUp4Kids! Our programs combine the healing presence of horses with body-based (somatic) and polyvagal-informed practices. Whether you're a child, adult, first responder, or veteran, we offer compassionate experiences to help you find connection, calm, and confidence.

1. Meet & Greet with the Herd Reading Cues & Building Safety

• Spend time observing horses in a relaxed setting.
• Learn how horses show their feelings through body language.
• Practice calming breathwork and body awareness.

2. Grounding Walks & Leading Exercises Regulation Through Movement

• Walk with a horse at a gentle pace.
• Match your breathing and steps with your equine partner.
• Feel the support of steady rhythm and presence.

3. Heart-to-Heart Grooming Mindful Connection & Sensory Integration

• Engage in slow, intentional grooming.
• Tune into textures, sounds, and emotional responses.
• Use touch and breath to build trust and calm.

4. Stretch & Regulate: Somatic Movement with Horses Embodiment & Nervous System Support

• Gentle stretching or movement near calm horses.
• Breathwork, humming, and grounding techniques.
• Suitable for all bodies and abilities.

5. The Emotion Connection Understanding Feelings with the Herd

• Notice the emotions and cues horses express.
• Reflect on your own feelings through art, writing, or conversation.
• Explore how animals help us regulate and relate.

6. Quiet Time in the Barn Stillness & Co-Regulation

• Rest quietly near the herd.
• Practice deep breathing or simply observe.
• A peaceful space for grounding and calm.

7. Leading the Circle: Boundaries in Motion Empowered Communication

• Guide a horse in a circle using posture and voice.
• Practice assertive but kind boundaries.
• Build confidence through clear, respectful interaction.

8. Reflection & Journaling Integration for All Ages

• After each session, take time to reflect.
• Journal, sketch, or talk about what you noticed in your body, emotions, and the horse.
• Great for kids, adults, and therapeutic support.

Our Approach:

• No prior horse experience needed.
• Trauma-informed, age-appropriate, and inclusive for all backgrounds.
• Ideal for children, adults, families, veterans, and first responders.

For more information or to schedule your appointment, call (845) 724-7128