When tragedy strikes, people cope and heal in different ways. Some turn to their church or mosque, some reconnect with nature, some lean on their friends and family, and some seek professional help. There are endless forms of therapy for those who are overcoming trauma. At EMBS Banbury, our students are partaking in one, somewhat unconventional form of therapy – horse riding.
In a four week programme hosted by Live Love Be LTD. Therapy Through Horses, our students get a chance to interact with horses, learning how to brush, walk, and care for them. Students suffering from anxiety, low self-esteem, and PTSD particularly benefit from spending time with these majestic animals, as they learn how to form good relationships with the horses. Horses are perceptive of human emotions, but non-judgmental – so it allows the students to learn about their own behaviour through the horses’ reactions to them. It has a positive effect on their overall wellbeing, emotional intelligence, relationships, and confidence.
Emma Leckie, the psychotherapist who spearheads the organisation, had this to say about our visit:
“These pictures sum up a wonderful day yesterday with the Mill Farm herd and the most extraordinary group of young refugees from EMBS College, Banbury. It is a privilege to spend time with them and share the love of the horses.”
A huge thank you to Emma Leckie and the Therapy Through Horses programme. Our students left feeling a little more in touch with nature and animals, as well as with themselves.
