The Lacuna Factor Approach
Lacuna Factor is based on the principle that pausing on purpose can fuel forward momentum in life. Our approach is to support the whole individual/team in discovering unique opportunities, and achieving goals in employment, relationships, and self-discovery. Many of the concepts we use to ignite growth, innovation, and problem solving are based on concepts from the natural world that have been in place for millions of years. The programs weave together elements from systems theory, neuroscience, and wisdom from horses.
Systems Theory
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.”
― John Muir
Often we treat changes or challenges as problems to be solved, however they are not something to be fixed with linear steps. They are complex systems, which require a set of assumptions/principles that can act as guardrails for the process, so that we can manage it vs. fixing it. It's like treating the experience as an update to the operating system, vs only being in one program. We use methods such as Design Thinking or Theory U to guide the process, and the idea that small steps are often the most impactful.
Neuroscience
“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
― Victor Frankl
Neuroplasticity
Embodied Awareness
Mindfulness
Experiential Learning
Igniting growth and change by creating new beliefs and thought patterns that rewire the brain
Tapping into wisdom from the body by noticing sensations in order to access a deeper intelligence that can lead to new perspectives and insight
Taking time in the present moment and observing thoughts and feelings without judging them. This allows us to access parts of the brain that support inspiration, growth, and creativity
Finding opportunities to engage with the material often using senses and emotions to enable a more impactful and lasting effect. One of the models we use is the Kolb experiential learning theory, which focuses on the individual's learning process, allowing for critical thinking and real-world application.
Wisdom from Horses
"Horses help us to learn about ourselves, and to overcome our fears and limitations."
― Linda Kohanov
Horses have existed for 56 million years and not only survived, but thrived. Their culture and way of life is built around mindfulness and group collaboration through connection. We can learn from this and apply it to our own life in work and relationships.
Non-Verbal Communication
Horses use an electromagnetic field to communicate, and when they feel an emotion, it creates a physiological change in their body, which is communicated to the rest of the herd. This is their signal to react accordingly to a situation, whether it's to run from a perceived threat or that it's safe to lie down in a field. In their world, communication goes beyond what they can see and hear-- it also involves breathing, heartrate, energy and emotion.
Emotional & Social Intelligence
Horses have an expert ability to regulate their nervous systems and process emotions. This is not something most humans were taught, so just by being with them it can train our nervous system so we can feel what it's like to move back into a state of calm alertness, or coherence. The HeartMath Institute has studied this by measuring heartrate variability (HRV), and their studies show that we can also do this for others through co-regulation, benefitting the entire system.
Energy Management
Horses are prey animals and prioritize energy conservation in case they need to get to safety. They recognize that everything takes energy and resting is a valuable part of keeping the system in balance. They place value in being over doing.
Leadership
Horses have a culture and live by certain principles that allow them to thrive as a group. They demonstrate an ability to empower others through modeling behavior and are able to take on different roles in the herd as needed. We can apply many of these themes to our own relationships and organizations.
