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Arriving in New Zealand
- December 6, 2024
- Personal
After South Korea, I returned to Japan for my flight to New Zealand.
I spent the night in a hotel waiting for my flight. On the last day, I went shopping and met friends for dinner. Most of the night was a bonding session, making our connections more permanent through the App LINE. Our more serious discussion was about ASD and the new ideas that were coming out of the research. We all felt pleased that the situation for clients on the spectrum was receiving more help.
Until this three-country trip, I had been in semi-retirement, but I continued working overseas by giving lectures and workshops. After October 7th, I began helping clients in Israel who had been traumatized by the devastating events of that day. Most of my clients are soldiers, their families, and survivors of the Nova Festival. I believe that we can assist people in the early stages of trauma before they develop chronic PTSD. My methodology is based on collaborating with horses to provide a somatic experience that helps individuals relax, allowing them to form new attachments and positive emotional experiences. My EAS program is called “Transcending Trauma,” and we now have four other therapists working to support our, unfortunately, many clients.
I hadn’t given much thought to the teaching and learning aspects of the subject, even though I have a granddaughter with a severe type of autism. However, my journey through three countries awakened my previous knowledge of the subject. It encouraged me to update myself, realizing there was much more I could do for people on the spectrum. My work with trauma also helped me understand how lonely and isolated individuals with ASD can feel and how they can become casualties of PTSD.
During my journey, it became evident how intertwined professional growth and emotional connections can be. Teaching practitioners allowed me to share my knowledge while simultaneously learning from the rich experiences of autistic children and adults I met along the way. Engaging in this deep exchange prompted me to revisit my previous notes, which seemed outdated as my understanding evolved.
I recently participated in an intensive workshop on autism led by the dedicated practitioner Dna Wells, the founder of Equipotential, with the invaluable support of practitioner Devon Tretheway. Dna, an Olympic-level three-day event rider and horse trainer, and her colleague Devon, a skilled show jumping competitor, emphasized the powerful impact of equine-assisted services. Their commitment to providing quality equine experiences for individuals facing challenges and disabilities resonated professionally and emotionally with me. My time in New Zealand, filled with learning and connection, will forever remain unforgettable.
The workshop brought together fourteen committed participants from various regions of New Zealand, all eager to develop a more cohesive therapeutic approach to the equine-assisted services (EAS) programs they offered in their local communities. I had the opportunity to share insights about my principles of practice and methodology, mainly focusing on individuals on the autism spectrum (ASD) and those who have experienced trauma. Dna and Devon ensured that Equipotential created an environment where every detail was thoughtfully considered, allowing us to gain the maximum benefit from our time together at the center. The atmosphere fostered connection and collaboration, highlighting our shared passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. It was an inspiring experience reinforcing the importance of compassionate care in our practices.
The pinnacle of this journey arrived on the last day when we engaged in groundwork with the horses. In those moments, a genuinely magical bond formed between participants, instructors, and volunteers, creating a shared connection that transcended words. These memories will resonate deeply within us all.
Note that both Dna Wells and Devon Tretheway are members of HETI. Dna and I serve on the HETI ethics task force committee, where we played a crucial role in creating the document “HETI Ethical Guidelines.”
Following the workshop, my adventures continued as I traveled to the South Island with Devon. Our days were filled with breathtaking experiences. We soared across majestic mountains, navigated the stunning landscapes of Milford Sound, enjoyed rides in a cable car, and reveled in horseback riding, which took us to new and wonderful places.
Each moment allowed us to immerse ourselves in New Zealand’s spectacular scenery, reminiscent of the enchanting settings from “The Lord of the Rings.”
We sailed on Lake Wakatipu, marveling at the magnificent surroundings while forging deeper connections with each other and the stunning environment—this journey beautifully combined professional insights with emotional depth, leaving an indelible mark on my heart.
Reflecting on my journey, I feel compelled to share my experience at a Kiwi sanctuary. Despite the relentless downpour, Devon and I visited the sanctuary and ventured into the twilight zone. I was fortunate enough to catch glimpses of four Kiwi birds. While the darkness obscured their colors, their distinctive shapes were unmistakable. This experience truly encapsulated New Zealand for me. Although I may not have explored every corner of this remarkable land, what I encountered left a profound impression. I am deeply thankful for the people I met, the diverse flora and fauna I witnessed, and the breathtaking landscapes that define the Southern Hemisphere. Each moment reminded me of the beauty and wonder of this unique island nation.