Learn more about what we do at Hooves of Heaven
Equine Experiential Learning
Equine Experiential Learning (EEL) is an education method which an individual or group uses to learn about themselves through observed interaction with horses. This approach is activity-oriented and focused specifically to each participant’s needs.
Participation in these activities can build social skills, life skills, communication skills, and personal self esteem. People are taught how to learn about themselves, their lives, and the world around them. EEL works well with people from all walks of life. from individuals desiring personal change to groups wanting to work more efficiently together to families searching for ways to strengthen their relationship. EEL can also be used to help people manage illness, stress and fear related issues, and emotionally trying times. Our goal is to use horses as a medium to reflect the attitudes and personalities of the participants. Lessons are taught through the actions of the horses and the participants as they work together to perform an activity. During this process, characteristics like teamwork, control and communication will be challenged. You do not need to know anything about horses to benefit, just focus your mind on the horse and the activity.
Here's an example of an activity we might use in a typical EEL session. The participant(s) will be put in a round pen with a horse and a obstacle over which the participant(s) must make the horse jump without talking to each other, the horse, or touching the horse in any way in a given amount of time. An open mind and out-of-the-box thinking is required because the participant(s) will be given a chance to talk and regroup before they attempt the activity again. At the conclusion, a series of open-ended questions will be asked to provide an opportunity for reflection and reinforce lessons to leave the sessions with.
“Horses mirror the energy and emotion we give off. They bring out the things we don’t want to talk about; the happiness, the sadness, all the aspects of emotions we face inside. You have to relax before the horse will relax. Once you get in touch with how you feel, then the horse will calm down. You have to get rid of your inhibitions before you’re going to portray to the horse “It’s OK.” For that to happen, you have to start working on you. ”
~ Chuck Mattke
Day Rides
Bring your family out for the day, saddle up, and go for a ride. If you've never ridden a horse, it's a great bonding experience and a chance to try something new. Maybe you're an experienced rider who is without a horse and you want a chance to get back in the saddle. Either way, we would be happy to set you up with a horse who will suit your experience level.
Trail Rides
With access to large acreages all over western Kansas, trail rides with Hooves of Heaven are truly an experience. We have trails that fit anyone from first-timers to the experienced rider. We will be posting dates, trail maps, and pictures for trail rides soon. Please check back as we continue to update the site.
Riding Lessons
Take advantage of our experience with horses and learn how to ride one yourself. We offer lessons in western riding and will try to make each lesson unique to the participant. There are so many things you can do with horses. We'll do our best to help you discover what you like best and teach you how to do it.
