I never imagined how life changing EEC would be for me.
When Eurico and his team first came to the Longrun farm I was intrigued. The idea of horses as healing sounded like the perfect way to help people. I have been in therapy battling mental health issues half my life and have been riding horses much longer. I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to experience the EEC program. It has connected every part of my life in a way that has allowed me to heal and grow faster than I ever have before.
The first thing I noticed about EEC that makes it different from other therapies is that I am finding the answers I need. The horses mirror my emotions without judgement and react honestly allowing me to see what steps I need to take. In one session Eurico and I walked to the sanctuary herd and the horses ignored us. As I slowly started talking and opening up, the horses began to approach us one by one until we were the center of attention. I realized I was putting too much pressure on myself to talk and speak perfectly. It was very different arriving at that answer myself with the calm encouragement of the horses then if someone had just told me.
Another thing I find extremely helpful is that during the sessions I am taking action. During one session I brushed Luckman and felt the satisfaction of the dirt falling off his coat along with his enjoyment. But, I was also experiencing letting go of people pleasing and feeling the joy of being clean of the negative belief. Later in the session, I walked an obstacle course with Destiny. We conquered cones and a raised pole to reach the goal of releasing people pleasing. Along the way I also conquered a fear of displeasing people and not feeling good enough. In both exercises I didn’t only learn about my people pleasing but I felt what it was like to overcome it and let it go.
The horses are not the only thing that has made EEC special for me. Eurico, Alexandra, and everyone who works with them have been incredibly kind and supportive. Eurico has been accepting, patient, and compassionate, creating an environment where I feel safe. Eurico has also taught me numerous techniques that have been invaluable to my healing. It is the guidance of these incredible people that has made EEC a positive experience for me.
During my first session I did not speak. I was mute with almost everyone. Now, I’m able to talk with my coworkers. I feel more confident and self compassionate. My growth was possible because of my experiences with EEC. I still have a long way to go to become my best self but I’m sure Eurico and the horses will continue to push me to do what I’m capable of.
— Sam