Introduction
The Horse, The Heart, The Hand, To Heal
Instead of visits to the office, today’s psychologist and talk therapists, along with their patients are spending their sessions visiting with horses. The unconventional settings of using the horse in the barn or pasture is the beginning of a growing clinical approach called equine-assisted therapy. By learning to understand and handle horses patients are able to work through difficulties and feelings, along with other problems they may experience every day. Learning to connect and handle horses requires patience and determination. Whether the patient is working to get through a diagnosis of mental illness or living with a physical handicap a successful session with handling a horse can result in developing many life skills. There is a gentle energy that exists within all horses. When learning hands on horsemanship with close, individual, guidance those skills can develop and grow.
Can you imagine having to live your life in a wheel chair? or never being able to leave your house? Maybe you know someone that was born with a physical impairment or was in a car accident that caused a serious disability. Many returning war veterans have sustained injuries that are beyond description and are life altering. An activity called Equine Therapeutic Riding has proven to give excellent benefits to people of all ages and those suffering from all kinds of injuries or illnesses.
An injury, disability, physical or mental handicap does not have to keep a person from mounting a horse. Being atop a horse can be a therapeutic experience by improving balance, strength, co-ordination and flexibility. Most of all the enjoyment of horseback riding is uplifting and fun and over time can build a rider’s confidence. The clinical benefits will vary from each individual, so give the Stables a call and set up an appointment for an evaluation at 413-339-8582 or 802-238-4028.
