HORSE KNOWING

​What is Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)  ?

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This coaching approach provides a hand's-on way to learn strategies and coping skills to meet life's challenges with more ease. You will be supported through personalised, ground-based sessions (no riding) offering calm, one-on-one time with horses to gently support emotional wellbeing and nervous system regulation through meaningful connection.  No riding, and no horse experience needed!!

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Why Horses? 

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Horses are naturally sensitive to human emotions and body language. They give honest, immediate feedback and help people tune into what’s going on beneath the surface – even when words are hard to find.

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For those of us who already work with animals, this often feels familiar. The experience of interacting quietly and respectfully with a horse can feel grounding and natural – a way to reflect and learn in a safe space. 

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What can it help with?

 

Through this coaching process, you can:  

• Manage stress, anxiety, and burnout

• Improve sleep and emotional regulation

• Build confidence and problem-solving skills

• Strengthen communication and decision-making

• Be with grief or loss in a supportive space

• Develop healthy boundaries and self-care routines

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​Program Details : 

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• Duration: 1 hour per week, over 8 weeks

• Format: Private, individual one-to-one, ground-based sessions (no riding)

• Location: Peaceful, rural setting with experienced EAL Coach

• Individualised approach: One-to-one sessions suitable for adults and young people over 12

• Group Sessions (4 participants max) suitable for adults 

• Confidential, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed

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Locations :

 

• Co. Westmeath - near Mullingar

• Co. Meath - near Kilcloon

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What past participants shared :

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“Definitely noticed a decrease in my stress levels which were at an all-time high, which has made me much calmer and less snappy”​
 

“When I started the program I was very anxious and overwhelmed. I found each week I was looking forward to the calm space with the horses and the chance to slow down. I am now more conscious to focus my breathing and find time in nature or on the farm to help with my emotions.”

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“I was very nervous about what I would gain from the program. However what can I say? This program has helped me enormously to rebuild my life and my future. It has allowed me to refocus on what is important. Myself and my family.”

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“Just the acknowledgment that small window of time each week can help reset me has made me acutely aware that I need to implement more of this into my routine or I will burn out.”

 

“I found the ‘just being’ very helpful as a person that’s constantly bombarded all day everyday, just having the space to sit and be quiet was huge.”
 

“I’ve learned that I’m open to different solutions and trials which has helped myself not give up as easily when things get tough and given me more hope in life “

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“Melanie knows just when to talk and when not to. Be very good for trauma and young people who might not be ready for “talk type” of counselling.”

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“She has found this to be a massively positive experience. She has had guaranteed weekly releases from her persistent self-destructive thoughts which have been invaluable. She finds a sense of self at each/every session and appears to be at peace in her own mind after each one. She finds the horses are very inquisitive of her and she loves that element. We are hugely grateful for all the efforts of everyone involved and their dedication!!!.” (Parental evaluation).

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Why it matters :

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A 2024 Irish study (O’Connor et al.) found that 42% of farmers are experiencing some form of mental health challenge – from stress and anxiety to sleep problems and burnout.

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This coaching programme is designed specifically for the farming community – offering confidential practical support for those not in a position to access traditional talk therapy.

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Take the First Step :

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Whether you’re a farmer, a spouse, or a member of the wider farm family, you deserve support. This is a space to take a breather, reset, and build tools to meet life's challenges with more ease.

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To learn more and book your place - call your EAL Coach Melanie on  087.667.2286

or email via the contact form below​