Work with horses may spur the development of emotional intelligence (EQ) in humans, says a study recently completed by the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture. A group of 11 nurses participated in a one-day workshop that involved experiential learning with horses; a control group of 10 nurses did not have this training. Pre- and post-study assessments of both groups revealed that the horse group’s EQ competency areas of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management all showed improvement.

These initial results, though not definitive, lay the groundwork for more of larger and more diverse populations of health-care providers.

Learn more about the study, here.