Equine Exercises in Drug Rehab
There is something to be learned from the Cirque Lodge horses. Residents in alcohol and drug rehab can participate in experiential activities that involve working with a horse. This can be a challenging and also spiritual event. At first, the resident and horse are presented to each other. The resident must gain the trust of the horse. This is easier said than done. The addict/alcoholic is used to imposing their will and getting their way. They want immediate gratification. Horses are creatures of flight, and they aren’t willing, initially, to be subject to this type of behavior. This teaches patience.
The process of earning the trust of the horse can be a powerful one. The resident in drug rehab begins to sense or feel desperation, because the horse isn’t willing to trust initially. With the help of instruction from our experiential staff, the resident can begin to make a trusting connection with the horse. The resident must ask proper questions though. This teaches them lessons in asking for help with things that are beyond their control. There is a change within this process when the alcoholic/addict realizes the problem is not with the horse, but with their actions toward the horse.
When the resident begins to work in a partnership with the horse, a strong connection and bond is made. The horse becomes trusting, and willing to submit to commands. The horse no longer even needs the leading rope; it follows willingly. Cirque Lodge residents get exactly what they need from the equine exercise. The alcoholic/addict can have a number of varying things they are dealing with psychologically and emotionally. It seems the horse activity gives them just the therapeutic experience that they are searching for.