Healing Power of Horses for Veterans




Naturally Savvy show

Summary: When a veteran returns from service, he or she can be damaged physically, mentally and emotionally.When a veteran returns from service, he or she can be damaged physically, mentally and emotionally.  It's extremely important to get these individuals reconnected to themselves and their loved ones.  Veterans often feel a loss of value and purpose. However, their greatest contribution may lay ahead in life.  The Boulder Crest Retreat (BCR) is one organization that provides Horse Inspired Growth and Healing (HIGH) and other therapeutic activities for its PATHH Programs (Progressive and Alternative Therapies for Healing Heroes). Suzi Landolphi, staff member at BCR, has witnessed firsthand just how healing horses can be for veterans. The energy coming from the horses is so incredible; overpowering in a positive way.  Why are horses such great animals for this type of healing? For one, they believe in teamwork, just like the veterans. They don't want to live alone (or even in a stall). Rather, they prefer to stay together as a way to keep each other safe, also similar to the mentality of veterans.  Suzi says that as humans, we often have "too much brain, not enough heart." The horses set a standard of inter-dependence, not co-dependence. They provide a connection to authenticity and allow the veterans to begin to trust themselves once again. Listen in as Suzi shares more about what BCR does, as well as why it's so essential we take care of our veterans.