Journey Into Animal Narnia
Whether I was lying on the floor for hours with the family dog or exploring the “green tunnels” of the East Coast forests, I have always, always, always gravitated toward nature and animals. These environments served as a playground, a sanctuary, and a place of peace and solitude at different points in my life, and the animals I interacted with in these spaces became some of my closest companions, confidants, and teachers.
As a social work graduate student, I study the profound impact that animals and the environment have on human health and wellbeing, not only to reflect on my own experiences, but to find ways to support others.
The Wood Between the Worlds
Throughout history humans have always relied on nature for survival. Humans actually prefer being close to living organisms and landscapes through emotional connection. A theory known as the biophilia hypothesis says humans have a dependence on nature which extends beyond material needs to include physical, mental, and medical wellbeing needs. Our brains are hardwired with a predisposition to pay attention to animals and the surrounding environment. The concept of human-animal-environment interactions (HAEIs) – intentional, mutually influential exchanges between animals, plants, and/or nature, are increasingly used by mental health professionals to enhance the health and learning of youth experiencing a range of clinical and social needs
Family Fun Place
When I arrived at Smiling Goat Ranch last spring, one of the first things I noticed is how intentionally and effectively HAEIs are built into every session.
- A veteran may come to experience sensory work and not only synchronize his breath with the deep breathing of the horse, but tune into the trickling of the water in the stream, the quaking of the aspen trees, or the calls of the mourning doves.
- A child on the autism spectrum might be working with the recreation therapist in the sandbox, only to be greeted by a friendly cat who provides an opportunity to practice social engagement skills.
- An adolescent might take the goats out for a walk in the neighborhood and learn about the importance of exercise, self-care, and responsibility.
Heal the Whole Family
These sessions provide a much-needed divergence from “traditional” forms of interventions that might take place in an office setting or may not appeal to some populations. Each family or individual who visits the ranch comes with a different set of needs and interests, and the environment and animals at SGR enables each session to be truly unique.
My time as an intern here has reflected what I’ve found in research and what I’ve experienced myself all my life: animals and the environment facilitate healing, growth, and wellness in ways that are fundamental to our being and allow for us to reconnect to ourselves and those around us. Smiling Goat Ranch is a one-of-a-kind program that serves as a model for how to effectively integrate HAEIs into practice and support a diverse group of people, and I can only hope that more programs follow in their footsteps.