☀️🍂🍁This morning, I reflected on my progress with Autumn and our growing dynamic of trust. Over the past few days, her behaviour has revealed subtle patterns in how she perceives my presence.
When I arrive at the property, the herd associates me with feeding time. While most horses eagerly approach, Autumn keeps her distance, observing from afar.
Yet, a quiet breakthrough is unfolding. When I sit or squat beside Misty with hay in hand, Autumn feels safe enough to approach. She’s started walking up to eat directly from my hand, a small but profound gesture of trust. Still, this trust is context-specific. In the paddock, she remains cautious, avoiding me when I approach her directly. If I get too close, she paces or circles to maintain space.
This morning, I worked with her again, meeting her where she is. I focused on her boundaries, mirroring her movements. If she walked away, I walked too; if she stopped, so did I. I avoided any chasing or pressure, prioritising her sense of safety while staying attuned to her energy.
Over 40 minutes, I noticed a shift. Her initial pacing and cantering slowed, her movements softened, and she began grazing nearby. Though she wasn’t ready to be caught, she chose to stay in proximity; a sign of growing trust.
🍁Autumn’s clear communication stands out. She engages on her terms, setting a boundary of about 2-4 metres, as if to say, “I’m trying, but I need time.” Her grazing, watching, and maintaining space feels intentional, a delicate balance between curiosity and caution.
I find myself wondering: Is her hesitation shaped by past experiences, or is it her natural independence as a pony? Either way, I’ll keep observing, respecting her signals, and learning her unique language.
Moments like these remind me how much horses teach us; about communication, boundaries, and the trust that grows through patience.
🍂
#observationallearning #gatheringinformation #patience #compassion #understanding #curiosity
🌿Mary Oliver’s line, “One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began,” beautifully captures the moment when clarity meets courage.
🌱It reflects the autonomic nervous system’s role in guiding us toward action: when we feel safe enough, grounded enough, and connected enough to take that first step toward change or purpose.
#equinelife #equineassistedtherapy #safety #nervoussystem #guidance #courage #bravery
I’m still learning new things about my handsome Chance, and today I was reminded again that he’s simply perfect in every way, hehe!
🌿Chance has developed a strong preference for shelter on wet, windy, and sunny days—possibly from spending so much time in stables during his racing days, as it was a large part of his environment back then. Now, with the freedom of movement, it works out well.🌱
🌿Dr. Gladys McGarey, defines a holistic approach as one that views health and healing as an interconnected process, where each part of a person—mind, body, emotions, and spirit—contributes to overall well-being. She emphasises that true healing goes beyond treating symptoms, advocating instead for a method that honors each aspect of a person’s life and environment.
This means fostering balance and harmony not only within oneself but also with one’s surroundings, relationships, and life experiences.
🐴🌱Brumby Equine Assisted Therapy, this means integrating a range of practices that support mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing, often through connection with horses and nature. By addressing these interconnected aspects, the therapy aims to support a deeper healing process.
#naturebasedtherapy #equineassistedtherapy #traumainformedcare #mindbodyconnection #naturetherapy #counsellinginnature #emotionalresilience #therapeutichorses #holisticcounselling #connectionthroughhorses #mentalhealthawareness #wellbeingjourney
Day 2: The @polyvagalequineinstitute 5 day training clinic in Australia. Huge thank you to @equineassistedtherapyaustralia we are so lucky 🙏
🌿 Spring Camp Reflections 🌿
During our recent spring camp, we had a meaningful moment of reflection where each camper created their own beautiful artwork. It was a wonderful way for them to express their thoughts and emotions while processing their camp experience.
I feel humbled to have witnessed such creativity and personal growth unfold throughout this journey. 🖼️✨
#springcamp #creativeexpression #personalgrowth #brumbyequinetherapy #reflectionmoments #learning #horselove
What is Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT)? 🌿🐴
At Brumby Equine Assisted Therapy (BrumbyEAT), we believe in the incredible power of horses to support personal growth. But what exactly is EAT?
Equine-Assisted Therapy is a unique therapeutic approach that uses interactions with horses to promote emotional, mental, and even physical well-being. Whether it’s grooming, leading, or simply being present with the horses, these experiences help people connect with themselves in new and meaningful ways.
Horses are highly sensitive creatures, able to reflect human emotions and behaviours without judgment. This natural ability allows them to show us how we feel, often helping us gain deeper insights into our own experiences. Through these interactions, clients can develop greater self-awareness, build trust, improve emotional regulation, and work through challenges like anxiety, trauma, depression, and PTSD.
At BrumbyEAT, our sessions are designed to be safe, supportive, and nature-based, using the calming presence of horses to foster personal growth. Each session is tailored to the individual, making the experience as unique as the bond between you and the horse.
Curious about how EAT can help you? Reach out to us and learn how this gentle, experiential therapy can make a world of difference. 🍃
Visit us at www.brumbyeat.com.au for more information.
#BrumbyEAT #equineassistedtherapy #supportwithhorses #emotionalwellbeing #therapyinnature #selfgrowth #selfcare
🌿 Holistic Emotional Support
Our equine-assisted therapy helps manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges, fostering resilience in a natural setting.
🌱 Personal Growth & Confidence Building
Engage in personalised therapeutic activities designed to boost self-confidence, motivation, and interpersonal skills.
🌳 Individualised Nature-Based Approach
We tailor equine-assisted and nature-based methods to your unique needs and goals.
👦🧑🦳 Programs for All Ages
From children to adults, we provide age-appropriate therapeutic experiences.
✅ NDIS Registered Provider
We offer professional services that align with NDIS goals.
🤍 Caring & Skilled Team
Our counsellors integrate Gestalt Therapy, Person-Centred Therapy, CBT, and Polyvagal Theory, ensuring a compassionate and effective approach.
✨ To learn more about our services, visit www.brumbyeat.com.au
Ending the week on a high note with the delivery of my newly designed brochures! 🌿
#equineassistedtherapy #brochures #endtheweekstrong #mentalhealth #naturebased
Windy days 🍃
On this very windy day, as the sun was setting to end the day, a strong breeze arrived, rustling through the trees. My beautiful Barney stood facing the sunset, his mane flowing in the wind, eyes softly closed as he enjoyed the cool air against his face. My client rested her head against his side, both finding a peaceful connection in the shared moment, simply being together in the embrace of nature.
Truly a beautiful moment to witness and capture ✨
#brumbyequineassistedtherapy #windyday #sunsetconnection #equinetherapy #peacefulmoments
🍂Update on Autumn 🍂
Building trust with Autumn, especially as she’s getting used to human interaction, is a delicate process. I’m using the approach, retreat, and pause method to create positive associations. This means moving forward to make a connection, stepping back to give her space, and pausing to let her process.
It’s crucial to let Autumn come to me on her own terms. It’s not just about teaching her to trust me, but also about showing her that I can be trusted. By creating positive experiences, being patient, and listening to her needs, I’m building a strong, lasting bond.
With time, patience, and respect, this approach is laying the foundation for a meaningful connection. I’m excited to see how far she’s come and look forward to the journey ahead! 🐴💕
#equineassistedtherapy #ponyprogress #trustbuilding #horsemanship #positiveassociations #animaltherapy #equinetherapy #bondingwithhorses #horsecare #ponylove #trustandrespect #equinetherapist #autumnupdates
🍂Meet Autumn🍂
Our Newest Herd Member !
We’re excited to introduce Autumn, the newest addition to our Brumby Equine Assisted Therapy herd. Autumn is a beautiful, gentle soul who is just beginning her journey with us. While she’s a bit nervous around humans right now, she’s incredibly sweet and curious.
We’ve already started working on building trust with her, and we can see her potential to blossom into a wonderful partner in our therapeutic sessions. It will take time, patience, and a lot of love, but we know Autumn will thrive here. We look forward to seeing her grow and learning from her as she finds her place in our therapy work.
Welcome to the family, Autumn! 🍁
