An Equine Program in Drug Rehab
One area where alcoholics and addicts can struggle is with communication. At Cirque Lodge, a unique program is used to teach communication skills. However, the individual isn’t communicating with a therapist or with the group; they are working with a horse. Cirque Lodge offers an equine program as a part of alcohol and drug rehab. This unique program provides different exercises in communication and establishing trust. It is a profoundly effective piece to the recovery program offered here in the mountains of Utah.
Horses provide a direct feed back that the alcoholic/addict can learn from. They are naturally creatures of flight, which means they will not submit to the commands of just anyone. The individual must gain the trust of the horse to work with them. This is the process and struggle that many face in working with the horses. The mindset of addiction is one of immediate gratification. In working with the horse, the individual must set this aside; learn to be patient and work to gain the trust of the animal. A member of the Cirque staff walks the resident through this exercise. This also can provide an important recovery lesson, asking for help with things beyond our control.
When the connection is made with the horse, it can be a powerful thing. Once the horse trusts that individual, they can be led through a number of exercises. This trust is a strong bond. The horse at that point is willing to follow the individual around, without commands or even a lead rope. The lessons of the equine program are vast. It always seems that Cirque Lodge residents gain exactly what they stand in need of from working with the horses. Many different vulnerabilities and struggles are addressed in their own unique way by working with these animals.
