Programme summary
The first session you come to HEAL is a chance to meet and connect, so that the HEAL™ Method facilitator can create a programme based on the needs of the student. These programmes are often 10 weeks in duration.
The HEAL™ Method
The HEAL™ Method
THE FIRST CONNECTION IS BREATH
At HEAL Aotearoa, connection begins before instruction, before riding and before words - with breath, presence and relationship
HEAL sessions are tailored to each student - no one programme is the same.
breath * presence * relationship
HEAL can create small whānau and school groups of 4, as this would be based on a preapproved bespoke HEAL™ Method programme.
Every session is based on the HEAL™ Method, which allows the facilitator to create a bespoke programme to the student.
There is no one-size-fits all, and we avoid labels.
HEAL’s job is to work with what is in front of them on the day the student enters the gate.
Available HEAL™ programmes
We offer a range of bespoke HEAL Method programmes, including:
Click each link above to find out more about our programmes.
We also create bespoke small group programmes for up to four. Please contact us directly using the inquiry form and we will be in touch to explore how we can work together for a small group.
BREATH as CONNECTION
a DISTINCTIVE HEAL™ practice
This is inspired by the significance of hā - breath - within te ao Māori and the hongi, where the sharing or exchange of breath acknowledges relationship and interconnectedness.
The opening practice of HEAL centres on breath: slowing down, becoming present and allowing a respectful connection to form between human and horse.
HEAL does not replicate the hongi; rather, it respectfully draws on the principle that breath can mark the beginning of connection. For those who communicate differently, this creates a powerful non-verbal starting point: you do not have to speak to begin to connect.
Grounded in te ao Māori & aligned with Te Whare Tapa Whā
The HEA L™Method is born in Aotearoa New Zealand and understands wellbeing as relational and whole-person.
Its philosophy is informed by values including:
✤ whanaungatanga - relationship and belonging
✤ manaakitanga - care, dignity and respect
✤ kaitiakitanga - responsibility toward horses, whenua and environment
✤ ako - reciprocal learning
It aligns naturally with Sir Mason Durie’s Te Whare Tapa Whā model: taha tinana (physical), taha hinengaro (mental and emotional), taha wairua (spiritual), taha whānau (family and social), with whenua as the foundation.
The HEAL™ Method aims to support the whole person in relationship with others, horses and the natural environment.
Connection & belonging
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Regulation & trust
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Confidence & capability
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Communication & boundaries
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Presence & self-awareness
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Connection & belonging ✤ Regulation & trust ✤ Confidence & capability ✤ Communication & boundaries ✤ Presence & self-awareness ✤
Love notes from our community
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"My daughter has been coming to Horse Sense for a year and a half and absolutely loves it. Her confidence has improved and she always looks forward to her lesson. Eve is a great teacher. Would highly recommend."
— HEAL Rangatahi Client
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“It has been amazing to see how much our 3yo’s confidence has grown since starting at HEAL . Not just during her riding sessions, but in other areas of her life too. She is becoming much more resilient and willing to try new things, even when they are challenging. Evie is incredibly patient and encouraging. Every session is different and follows whatever pace is needed that day. The sessions are really flexible. One session our daughter really wanted to try and ride on a different horse that day and Evie happily saddled up the second horse just so she could give it a try. On other days, our 1yo has also been able to join in with her big sister. The horses at Horse Sense are talked about endlessly in our household and have brought our girl so much joy. It’s clear she has developed a special connection with the horses and genuinely loves being there. Can’t recommend the kaupapa highly enough."
— HEAL Anxiety Programme Client
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"Had the pleasure of meeting Evie & the gentle giant Moose today. My daughter flourished in her 1st session today and Evie was absolutely amazing. Her way with kids, mannerism and adapting to make them feel completely comfortable really made a huge difference and it allowed my girl to shine. She had the best time and we will definitely be regulars. I highly recommend her and her beautiful horses who just make you fall in love with their presence."
— HEAL Rangatahi Client
HEALn Begins with Connection
Connect directly with Evie, founder of the HEAL™ Method and learn more about how we can HEAL™ the world one session at a time.