S.T.E.P.S. With Horses

On International Mind Body Wellness Day, it’s the perfect time to celebrate how equines help us connect our minds and bodies. Equines are uniquely attuned to human emotions and nonverbal communication, making them incredible partners in improving self-awareness and well-being. In equine assisted counseling, their natural sensitivity helps us notice how our thoughts and emotions influence our physical responses. Equines often respond to our body language and energy, providing instant, honest feedback. This fosters mindfulness—staying present in the moment—and can reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and create a sense of inner calm. #MindBodyWellnessDay #EquineAssistedCounseling #HealingThroughHorses

Fun Fact Friday: Did you know retired or injured show horses often find impactful second careers in equine-assisted service programs? These former athletes bring exceptional skills, sensitivity, and presence to their new roles, helping individuals on their healing journeys. At STEPS with Horses, we are proud to have four incredible therapy partners who transitioned from the show ring to the therapy arena: ? Starbuck, a retired dressage show horse, uses his elegance and poise to help clients build confidence and inner balance. ? Max, a champion reining horse, leads the way in teaching clients the power of healthy boundaries and self-assurance. ? Snoop, a world champion in western pleasure, wins hearts with his charm and helps clients feel calm and connected. ? Bob, a miniature show horse, brings his warm personality and playful spirit to Equine-Partnered Play Therapy with children. These horses demonstrate the value of second careers and remind us that their legacy of connection and service doesn’t end with retirement. Do you have a favorite story about a horse making a difference? Share it in the comments! ?? #EquineAssistedTherapy #MentalHealth #SecondCareers #HorsesHeal

Did you know? In 2024, 60% of the equine assisted counseling sessions at STEPS With Horses were offered at free or reduced cost! This was made possible through the incredible generosity of our donors, grants from community partners, and partnerships from organizations that share our commitment to making mental health care accessible. These contributions allow us to prioritize underserved groups, including veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, as well as individuals from marginalized communities who often face significant barriers to care. For many, the cost of therapy can be a major obstacle, but at STEPS With Horses, we believe healing should never be out of reach. Thanks to our funding partners, we’ve been able to create opportunities for more individuals to find hope and resilience through the transformative power of equine-assisted mental health services. Every gift, grant, and sponsorship helps us ensure that more people can access this unique and impactful form of mental health care. Together, we are breaking down barriers and changing lives, one step at a time. #HealingThroughHorses #MentalHealth #SupportingVeterans #EquineTherapy

???? Meet Snoop, one of our incredible therapy horses! In this exclusive interview, he shares how the STEPS Model fosters healing and connection through the human-horse bond. Insightful, impactful, and straight from the horse’s mouth—don’t miss it! ?? https://lnkd.in/guprhmiD

Play isn’t just for kids—it’s a vital part of growth and well-being, even in adulthood. Engaging in play boosts creativity, reduces stress, and strengthens our connections with others. Studies show that play improves problem-solving skills, builds resilience, and enhances collaboration—skills that are just as valuable in the workplace as they are in daily life. This week, challenge yourself to make time for play, whether through a creative outlet, a team activity, or simply taking a moment to laugh. Play isn’t a distraction—it’s an investment in your well-being and success. How will you incorporate play into your week?

Throughout history, horses have been recognized as healers across many cultures. From the ancient Greeks using horseback riding to improve mental and physical health to Indigenous peoples honoring horses as spiritual guides, their contributions to human well-being are vast. Horses have helped rehabilitate injured soldiers, provided emotional support for trauma survivors, and fostered mindfulness and connection in those seeking balance. Their ability to sense human emotions and respond without judgment has made them powerful partners in healing across the centuries. On National Day of the Horse, we celebrate not just their strength and beauty, but also their profound impact on human lives as companions, partners, and healers. Let's take a moment to honor the incredible ways horses have shaped our history and continue to inspire healing today. #DayOfTheHorse #HealingThroughHorses #EquineTherapy #HorseHealers #HorseHistory #HorsesAndHumans #EquineAssistedTherapy #CelebratingHorses

Throughout history, horses have been recognized as healers across many cultures. From the ancient Greeks using horseback riding to improve mental and physical health to Indigenous peoples honoring horses as spiritual guides, their contributions to human well-being are vast. Horses have helped rehabilitate injured soldiers, provided emotional support for trauma survivors, and fostered mindfulness and connection in those seeking balance. Their ability to sense human emotions and respond without judgment has made them powerful partners in healing across the centuries. On National Day of the Horse, we celebrate not just their strength and beauty, but also their profound impact on human lives as companions, partners, and healers. Let's take a moment to honor the incredible ways horses have shaped our history and continue to inspire healing today. #DayOfTheHorse #HealingThroughHorses #EquineTherapy #HorseHealers #HorseHistory #HorsesAndHumans #EquineAssistedTherapy #CelebratingHorses

Suzy struggled with social anxiety and finding her voice—until she met Snoop. Discover how this golden horse helped her build confidence, make decisions, and embrace her courage. https://lnkd.in/gjuXCmQj #EquineTherapy #OvercomingAnxiety #TherapeuticRiding #QuarterHorse

In a world that often glorifies constant productivity, it's easy to forget the importance of genuine rest. Rest isn’t just about stopping—it’s about finding a space where you feel safe, supported, and at ease. For humans and animals alike, safety is the foundation for relaxation and renewal. Take a moment to consider where you feel most at peace. Is it with loved ones, in nature, or simply in a moment of quiet stillness? That sense of safety isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for thriving. This week, challenge yourself to create space for true rest and connection—it’s one of the most powerful forms of self-care. #WisdomWednesday #SelfCare #RestAndRenewal

Thanksgiving often focuses on gratitude and togetherness, but for some, this season can feel heavy. Strained relationships, loss, or loneliness can make it difficult to connect. If this resonates with you, know you’re not alone. Gratitude doesn’t need to be about grand gestures or perfect moments. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet, simple things—like the steady, grounding presence of a horse. This Thanksgiving, allow yourself to redefine gratitude. It might be a kind word, a moment of peace, or the companionship of an animal. Gratitude is not about what should be but about noticing and embracing what is. #WisdomWednesday #Gratitude #Thanksgiving