Nervous system regulation is the ability to move fluently between different states of arousal in response to stimuli and stressors. This means that when we encounter a change in our environment, like a stressful situation, we are able to respond appropriately and adapt so that we are not overwhelmed.

The definition of resilience is the capacity to withstand or recover quickly from difficulties or the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape. In the context of our nervous system, resilience is our capacity for experiencing stimuli or stressors and being able to move through the arousal and come out the other side into down-regulation without residual stress.

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Humans and horses are both mammals and therefore we can experience similar responses in our nervous systems as well as our experiences of stress, trauma, regulation, safety, and connection.

Our intention when spending time with and training our horses is to be aware of this regulation process in ourselves and our horses. To find and start from a place of safety and connection and then build resiliency as we progress through the exercises and activities together.

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