Spirit of Wellness

Our body keeps the score, when we pay attention, we give ourselves permission to make an informed decision to say NO

Love this 💖

How can therapy horses help people with trauma?

The horse's ability to reflect an individual's feelings enables the participant to become more aware of their emotional responses and begin regulating them.

This interaction encourages non-verbal communication and emotional regulation often lost in the aftermath of trauma.

It provides the therapist with a feedback mechanism to better help their client.

🌟 Discover the Healing Power of Horses! 🌟

Are you ready to experience something truly unique and transformative? Join our talented Sydney students for an Equine Assisted Therapy session! 🐴✨

Equine Assisted Therapy offers a powerful way to improve emotional well-being, reduce stress, and connect with these magnificent animals. Whether you're seeking personal growth, emotional healing, or simply a new and enriching experience, our sessions are designed to support and inspire you.

📅 Sessions running from 22nd - 25th July, all sessions are 1 hour
💰 Sessions are $20
📍 Located in Galston, Sydney
🎓 Led by our dedicated and skilled students and supervised by qualified practitioners.

Spaces are limited, so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity. Reserve your spot now and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing with our wonderful horses.

➡️ Book Now : https://EATAevents.as.me/?appointmentType=48197777

Feel free to DM us with any questions or for more information. We can't wait to see you there! 🐎💫

Not long now to the Mastery Of The Horse 2024 kicks off!
Have you got your tickets?

Visit us at the EATA trade stand (near the food trucks!), we will be there to have a yarn and tell you all about our courses! You can even book yourself a FREE equine assisted therapy session with us (and the amazing outback spectacular horses!).

It is going to be a huge event, last year was spectacular and this year is set to be even bigger!!

We cannot wait.

🤠 See you there!

To pre book a free session head to the link in bio or click below!
https://equineassistedtherapyaustralia.com.au/events/

This day carries great significance for the Stolen Generation and other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and encourages engagement in meaningful conversations, education about the history and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and actively supports efforts towards Reconciliation. Yesterday morning I gathered with others hearing of horrific soul damaging personal experiences of the Stolen Generation in Kurnell. As we stood in silence, observed the rising of the sun I reflected on my privileged life with mixed emotions. Sadness, pain, hurt, suffering, generations lost.... I am Sorry... I support reconciliation and healing together as one. Thankyou for a meaningful morning .

We are so fortunate to have horses in our lives..

When kids are diagnosed with a learning disability we naturally worry about how it will affect their school performance. What we often don’t think about, but should, is how having a learning disability may affect children emotionally.

Sometimes kids would rather be the ‘bad’ kid than the ‘dumb’ kid, or they’d rather be the class clown. They’re either trying to divert attention away from their academic struggles or they’re trying to have the ‘I don’t care’ attitude as a way of saving face.

These are the three most common reasons why kids with a learning disability might feel bad, and what to do about them:

They think they are “dumb.”
This is common before they have received their diagnosis. Some kids keep worrying about it afterward too.
What to do:
Make sure your child knows what an LD is. Hearing that an LD has nothing to do with intelligence can be very meaningful. Think about the messages you’re sending, too. If they sense that you think having an LD is bad, they will feel the same.

They feel like they stick out in class.
When kids get pulled out of class for tutoring or called on by the teacher for something they’re afraid they can’t deliver, they may feel embarrassed and singled out.
What to do:
For a child who worries about sticking out in class, ask teachers to help. Maybe they can wait for your child to raise their hand instead of calling on them. Or maybe the teacher can assess their reading in private.
Working out a simple signal to use when your child needs help can also be a good strategy. Work with the school and your child’s provider to consider what his needs are and if they are being met.

They are worn out
Some kids with LDs end up feeling worn out because they need to work harder than their peers. Spending so much time on something difficult can leave them feeling frustrated.
What to do:
Help your child set small, achievable goals. That way they will see proof that they are making progress, which will help them feel more motivated. Every child has a talent. Find something that your child feels good about doing, and that gives them a sense of mastery and accomplishment, and give them time to practice it. As their talent grows, so will their confidence, self-esteem, and overall happiness.

Read more:
https://childmind.org/article/supporting-the-emotional-needs-of-kids-with-disabilities/

Did you know that ATL is an approved voluntary work organisation through CentreLink under a mutual obligations requirement for job seekers?

Some job seekers can meet their mutual obligation requirements by doing voluntary work with an approved charity, such as ATL.

If you are interested in volunteering for ATL under this arrangement, please submit an expression of interest (EOI) here.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/R63F5JM

Today is National Close the Gap Day. I am committed and support the ongoing recognition and respect for Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander peoples , their rights, justice and equity.
I am offering a free Equine Assisted Therapy Session for Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander who is struggling with their Mental Health.
Research has identified Equine Assisted Therapy to be an effective method for treating Trauma among Indigenous populations due to it's flexibility and applicability to Cultural Diversity.(Bennett&Woodman).
Today Let's celebrate our First Nation peoples, our Indigenous communities and support meaningful action to create better and more equitable conditions.
Contact Sophie on 0474 611 701

The Grounded Equine: Navigating Challenges Together
"I hear your frustration, I see you struggling, I feel your pain. The Grounded Equine has got your back."
In the world of horsemanship, the journey can sometimes feel solitary and daunting. Whether it's the day-to-day hurdles or deeper challenges, it's easy to feel like you're navigating this path alone. But with The Grounded Equine, you're never on this journey by yourself. Our service offering is designed to address exactly these moments of doubt and difficulty.
At the heart of what we do is Mindful Horsemanship, a philosophy that's not just about riding, but about understanding and connecting on a deeper level with your equine partner. Our approach is built on a foundation of practical, effective, and respectful horsemanship skill development, combined with a profound understanding of both horse and human behaviour. But we take it a step further with Equine Assisted Counselling, led by an ACA registered Counsellor, to provide support that goes beyond the physical aspects of horsemanship.
The Grounded Equine is here to guide you through a comprehensive journey of growth, healing, and connection. Together, we'll navigate the challenges, transforming frustration and struggle into understanding and harmony. Let's embark on this path towards a more fulfilling partnership with your horse, underpinned by compassion, expertise, and a commitment to both your well-being and that of your horse.
Curious if my services may help you? Call for a free 20min consultation to find out! https://
thegroundedequine.com.au

Do you have a heart for horses and a desire to support mental well-being?

EATA offers two unique courses designed to equip you with the skills to excel in the growing field of Equine Assisted Therapy / Mental Health (EAMH).

1. Counselling Specialising in EAMH (2 years):
Earn a nationally recognised Diploma of Counselling and specialise in EAMH.

The only course of its kind in Australia, offering in-depth training and hands-on experience.

2. EAMH Course (12 months):
Are you a qualified counsellor looking to expand your practice?
This intensive program equips you with EAMH expertise, including a PVEI exclusive workshop in October!

Why Choose EATA?

✔️ Develop a diverse skillset in mental health, equine care, and EAMH techniques.
✔️ Trauma-informed and hands-on learning prepares you for various work environments.
✔️ Gain the confidence to work with horses outdoors or in a traditional counselling setting.
✔️ Learn valuable horse handling skills for safe and effective EAMH sessions.
✔️ Discover personal growth alongside your professional development.
✔️ This integrated approach fosters a fulfilling career and enriches your life!

Ready to take the next step? Visit our website https://equineassistedtherapyaustralia.com.au/study-with-us/ to learn more and apply today!

You think about life (and what's important) differently...

I love this reminder from our authenticity and just being another human is so powerful 💖💪

🐴 Dorrigo Mental Health Fundraiser Event 🐴

We're thrilled to announce FREE Equine Assisted Therapy sessions right here in Dorrigo, NSW! Each session, led by a qualified EAMH therapist, offers a safe and nurturing space for individuals seeking mental health support.

Sessions last for 1 hour and are completely FREE of charge!

🌏 Your participation will make a real difference! All funds raised will be dedicated to supporting mental health initiatives in rural communities across Australia. Together, we can create positive change and break the stigma surrounding mental health.

📅 Save the Date: 13th & 14th April
📍 Location: Kari's Equestrian, Dorrigo NSW
🎟️ Limited spots available! Book early to secure your spot and embark on this transformative experience.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to support mental health and connect with the healing power of nature. Spread the word, invite your friends, and let's make a meaningful impact together! 💙

Book a session or make a donation here: https://equineassistedtherapyaustralia.com.au/dorrigo-mental-health-fundraiser/

Horses have so much wisdom to share with us - the key to hearing it is slowing down our busy days and opening ourselves up to receiving it. ❤

Want a more confident child? Here is how A kid who lacks confidence will be reluctant to try new new things, says Carl Pickhardt, a psychologist and parenting author

Courage - Overcoming challenges in life requires courage. Continuing on when you don’t feel you have the strength too requires courage. Asking for support requires courage. With self awareness and self confidence Courage is possible.

If you or you know of someone who is struggling to overcome challenges, experiences low self confidence and self awareness, I am here for support. Amongst nature and animals in a safe therapeutic setting I hold space and facilitate reconnection with self, which I believe is necessary to effectively face the challenges that lay ahead.

Let's raise a new generation of children who don't believe they need to hustle for their worthiness, knowing they are loved for their unique contributions to the world and their imperfections.

When children know nothing can separate them from their parent’s love, they will grow up self-assured, with the capacity to love others with that same depth.

Reflection of Last Week
from a teachers perspective current challenges facing adolescents and effective support assisting them to make small incremental changes. Together teachers, allied health professionals and parents can make a difference.

# Animal Therapies Ltd annual conference and awards dinner evening. I am so grateful, thankyou Jane Faulkner@EATA for inviting me to attend with you this inspiring resourceful conference with like minded caring souls. Amazing research, informative speeches and heartfelt shared experiences of work in the field of animals assisting humans. WENDY COOMBE ThankYou, your ongoing dedication and commitment along with your team for making this possible 🙏
And a huge congratulations to my client, you know who you are🌺 on receiving your special award for courage, resilience and determination. Overcoming challenges you never thought was possible.

Great week.

if abandonment is the core wound

the disconnection from mother

the loss of wholeness

then the most potent medicine

is this ancient commitment

to never abandon

yourself

to discover wholeness in the whole-mess

to be a loving mother

to your insides

to hold the broken bits

in warm open awareness

and to illuminate the sore places

with the light

of love

- jeff foster

Money Can't Buy Happiness
But it can Buy Horses
Which is Pretty Much the Same Thing

We would like to acknowledge those that have walked this land before us in all their forms.

We respect the traditional custodians and value their cultural heritage and spiritual connections across all the lands of Australia. These connections are evident in their ceremonies, the natural landmarks, sacred objects embedded in the landscapes, the animals, the waterways and the storytelling.

We sincerely acknowledge and give thanks to our Elders past and present and your Elders past and present for they are the knowledge holders and wise ones that have guided us to where we are today.