The Three Bees Project, dedicated to creating a space for physical, mental, and environmental regeneration, leads an innovative initiative in Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL). This project aims to educate young people, support adults, and protect our environment through the remarkable connection between humans and horses.
EFL offers a unique opportunity for individuals to enhance their self-awareness, recognise unhelpful emotional states, and practise techniques that enable them to alter their responses to life’s challenges. This approach promotes emotional growth and development, leading to improved overall well-being.
EFL is particularly effective for adults and young people, helping them understand and acknowledge their feelings, explore communication methods, and develop self-advocacy skills. Central to this process is the remarkable sensitivity of horses to human emotions and energy. Horses, whose survival in the wild depends on their ability to read the emotional states of their herd, can sense and reflect the truth of our emotions, often before we ourselves are aware of them.
The ability of horses to communicate subtle shifts in our energy as we face various challenges provides immediate feedback, allowing us to adjust our behaviour and thinking patterns. This interaction not only fosters emotional insight but also creates a calming and enjoyable environment for participants.
Helen Watts, a qualified teacher with a fully enhanced DBS check and a Level 2 qualification in Equine Facilitated Interaction (EFI) from the Athena Herd Foundation, specialises in working with young people experiencing anxiety, depression, or communication difficulties. She emphasises that sessions are tailored to meet individual needs and can accommodate children aged seven and older.
Helen Watts shares her insights: “The horses are amazing. They know a person’s truth, even when it is unspoken. They accept where that individual is at, without judgement, and begin the work of helping them find balance. Sometimes it’s quite subtle; sometimes there is a huge shift in perspective. But it is always an honour to share the journey.”
EFL sessions with Helen are entirely non-ridden, and for those who may feel apprehensive around horses, initial sessions can be arranged to avoid direct handling or even entering the paddock. This flexibility ensures a comfortable and supportive experience for all participants.
Allen Watts adds: “I love animals and nature. I love our horses. However, I don’t understand how they do what they do. How they can have such a profound effect on people. It is quite simply… magic!”
Sessions can be booked individually, as a course, or on an ongoing basis without any commitment requirements. The initial session lasts one hour and costs £60, while subsequent 45-minute sessions are £45. Special arrangements can be made for shorter sessions if needed.
To schedule a session, please call or text 07788 880507 and leave a message. Helen will return your call as soon as possible.
