Like many places these days, it’s been quieter than usual around Little Creek Horse Farm. The Conservancy has reduced the number of Hands on Horses program sessions and has moved to online fundraising. In addition, all of the lesson programs have had to scale back due to social distancing guidelines.
The good news is that Stride Ahead, despite having to cancel individual lessons, has found a way to give back to the community by instituting their Stress Relief Program. Tailored for COVID front line workers, including nurses; doctors; respiratory therapists; firefighters; police personnel; paramedics; and hospital therapists, chaplains, and residents, this program is not therapy, but rather is designed as a peaceful way to get away from everyday stressors.
An equine specialist and a mental health professional work as a team in the arena with the horse and client. The horse is loose and the client is free to interact in any way they feel comfortable – petting, grooming, leading, or just standing with the horse. No horse experience is required. The professionals are on hand to help, but will also step away to allow the client time with the horse and to enjoy being outside in the beautiful pasture environment, surrounded by horses, trees, and a quiet not usually found in our urban area.
When you arrive, there will be a small interview with the mental health professional to help understand what your needs might be, as well as a short stress level assessment (noting your stress level on a chart). This will be followed by a short mindful medication session, a horse safety talk, and then you will be introduced to one of Stride Ahead’s trained therapy horses to begin your session. Afterward, you will repeat the stress level assessment.
Since beginning the program in October, roughly two dozen people have attended one of these free sessions. Everyone who has participated reported a decrease in their stress levels when they finished. It’s hard not to gain a benefit from an hour spent in nature alongside an animal who, by nature, is attuned to the presence of another being interacting with them.
If you, a family member, or friend would like more information on this program, please contact Pam Smith at 404-217-4895 or pashme01@gmail.com
Stride Ahead and the Little Creek Farm Conservancy would like to thank the Arthur M. Blank Foundation for its sponsorship of this program.
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