Healing Through Horse Wisdom
- erinallen822
- Jun 10
- 3 min read
Sanctuary for Transformation
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) seeing clients at Higher Ground Healing in Lookout Mountain, Golden, I've witnessed countless transformative moments where the combination of professional therapy and equine wisdom creates profound healing opportunities. When you drive up to this serene mountain facility, leaving the city behind, you can feel your nervous system begin to settle. Here, nestled in this peaceful setting, we combine evidence-based therapeutic practices with the ancient wisdom of horses to create a unique healing experience.
The Science Behind Healing with HorsesWhen we experience trauma, our nervous system often gets stuck in patterns of fight, flight, or freeze. Recent research has revealed fascinating insights into why equine-assisted therapy is particularly effective for trauma healing.
Neurobiological and Psychological Impact
Horses' naturally lower resting heart rates help regulate our own nervous systems through co-regulation
Studies show significant reduction in cortisol (stress hormone) levels during horse interactions
The bilateral stimulation during groundwork activities supports trauma processing, similar to EMDR therapy
Horses provide immediate, honest feedback about our emotional states
Their presence triggers the release of oxytocin, supporting emotional bonding and trust
The non-verbal aspect of equine therapy helps access trauma memories that may be difficult to verbalize
Their size and presence naturally encourage mindfulness and present-moment awareness
Why This Approach Works
Horses create a safe, non-judgmental space for trauma processing
Their prey animal nature makes them exquisitely attuned to our nervous system state
The outdoor, experiential nature of the work helps engage the body in healing
Physical interaction with horses promotes neural pathway development
The combination of movement and stillness supports deep emotional processing
Their immediate feedback helps develop emotional awareness and self-regulation
Natural Mirrors of Our Inner World
Horses possess an uncanny ability to reflect our authentic emotional state, even when we try to hide it. As prey animals, they:
Can read subtle changes in body language and energy
Respond to our genuine emotional state rather than the face we present to the world
Notice incongruence between our internal and external states
React immediately and honestly to changes in our nervous system
The Power of Prey Animal Wisdom
At Higher Ground Healing, the horses demonstrate this remarkable sensitivity daily:
Their heightened awareness helps clients recognize their own emotional patterns
Their need for authentic leadership encourages genuine self-expression
Their prey animal nature requires clear, consistent communication
Their immediate feedback helps clients develop emotional awareness
Safety Through Attunement
As prey animals, horses have developed sophisticated ways of:
Reading environmental cues for safety
Responding to subtle shifts in energy
Maintaining awareness of group dynamics
Communicating clearly through body language
This natural attunement creates powerful therapeutic opportunities as clients learn to:
Develop greater self-awareness
Practice clear communication
Build authentic relationships
Understand personal boundaries
Navigate social dynamics
Your Journey at Higher Ground HealingWhat to Expect in Your Session
1.) Arrival and GroundingThe session begins with a moment to settle into the peaceful mountain environment. You might notice the gentle sounds of horses moving in their paddocks, the fresh mountain air, and the expansive views that naturally help your nervous system regulate.2.) Meeting Your Equine Partner- Simple observation of horse behavior and movement- Practice reading horse body language- Develop awareness of your own non-verbal cues- Progress at your own pace - no pressure to interact before you're ready3. Experiential WorkDepending on your comfort level and goals, we might:- Practice boundary-setting exercises with the horses- Use mindful movement and breathing exercises- Engage in ground-based activities for present-moment awareness- Explore different distances and interactions that feel empowering4. Integration and Embodiment- Process your experience through gentle discussion- Incorporate movement to help anchor the work- Use the mountain setting for emotional release and integration
The Higher Ground Healing DifferenceWhat makes this facility unique:
Stunning mountain views that naturally inspire perspective shifts
Spacious, professional facilities for various types of interactions
A peaceful, private setting away from city distractions
Experienced therapy horses skilled in this work
Year-round access to both indoor and outdoor spaces
Areas of Growth and HealingThrough our work together, clients often experience:
Stronger boundaries and self-advocacy
Deeper connection with their authentic self
Improved emotional regulation
Enhanced self-trust and intuition
Healthier relationships
Release of stored trauma through movement
Increased body awareness and mindfulness
This blog post was written by Lexie Glisson, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in equine-assisted therapy and trauma treatment at Higher Ground Healing. To learn more head to www.lexieglisson.com
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