Impact on the Balance of the Autonomic nervous System (ANS) During Equine Assisted Executive Coaching As Measured by Simultaneous Heart Rate Variability ((HRV) in Horses, Coach and Client

The authors will present research findings from an IRB approved study measuring Heart Rate Variablity (HRV) in an equine assisted executive coaching session. This pilot research study examines the physiological relationship, in coaching sessions, between coach, clients and horses. There is little research on physiological aspects of coaching interventions. Heart rate variability is a unique approach to looking at the simultaneous responses of horses and humans. This research follows a series of heart rate variability (HRV) studies where findings indicate that therapeutic interventions with horses improve not only the psychological state but also the physiological systems of humans during various aspects of interaction. When there is a balance in the autonomic nervous system as determined by HRV, research has demonstrated that there is more clarity of thinking, focus of attention, increase in confidence, improved decision- making and reduced stress and anxiety.   

Equine assisted coaching falls within the realm of animal-assisted therapies within the mind-body domain of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). Scientific evidence for CAM practices is often limited and this lack of reliable data makes it difficult to make informed decisions about using integrative health care.  This research study addresses that lack by examining the physiological relationship in coaching sessions, between coach, client and horse.  It also has a side effect of exposing clients to the therapuetic effects of animals and nature.

This paper presentation compares and contrasst the practice of equine assisted coaching with equine assisted therapy and share the results of the heart rate variability findings as well as address the implications for executive and health coaching.