Working with autism on the farm Many of the participants at Hidden Acres are on the autism spectrum. Each comes to us with unique gifts and abilities. While each person with ASD experiences the world differently, sensory processing issues and communication challenges are common obstacles. Specifically, the rider may have different degrees of difficulty experiencing one...
The past two years have been difficult. Without doubt it had has been an unprecedented time of separation. In 2020, the pandemic kept many of us from our family, friends and workplace. Those who lost a loved one suffer the greatest separation as they search for meaning in that loss. While we are almost back to some degree of...
Working on a farm makes it easy to follow the rhythms of nature and the changing cycles of the seasons. Right now we are surrounded by the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of nature preparing to slow down, end the time of growing and begin the time of rest and restoration. The horses’ winter coats...
Brushing and grooming a horse is an easy activity that anyone can learn. There are a few specific grooming tools (brushes) which are used in specific ways in order to clean the horse from head to tail and condition its coat and long hair (mane and tail). The task itself is simple: to get the...
Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center has an exciting new addition to our list of programs we would like to share. Since 2010 the core mission of Hidden Acres Therapeutic Riding Center has been the dedication to improving the minds, bodies and spirits of children and adults with physical, developmental, and emotional challenges through the benefits...
At Hidden Acres, the goal of all our human-equine interactions is an attuned, connected relationship. We believe that all healing and growth take place within the context of healthy relationships. The features of a healthy, attuned relationship are rhythm, reciprocity, shared attention, and being present in the moment together. Let’s look carefully at this picture...
One of the guiding principles at Hidden Acres is that all healing and growth take place in the present moment within the context of the attuned, connected relationship. Our primary goal in all horse-human interactions is the promotion of a healthy relationship. Bettina and Tim Jobe of the Natural Lifemanship Institute state that good...
What do we see happening in this picture? I would venture to say “more than meets the eye.” How is this tiny young girl controlling the 1,275 lbs. body of our 17 hand American Warmblood? How are they connected in such a way that the girl is able to influence the huge horse and direct...
What is it about horses that we find so compelling? What do horses have to offer us that is unique and healing? Interacting with horses creates an environment which is sensory rich, non-verbal and present centered. Engagement with a horse is a mindful, right brain activity which allows for the exploration of feelings and emotions in...