“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” – Winston Churchill
If you’ve ever looked into the eyes of a horse, you understand the healing power that horses have. It’s not a mistake why so many children and adults with disabilities find that horses help them heal. Here’s the different ways that horses make a difference in the lives of those living with disabilities.
1) Coordination is gained through riding: Horses are at the center of some incredible stories when it comes to aiding those with disabilities. Horses have helped individuals suffering from conditions such as multiple sclerosis, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injuries learn how to gain better mobility of their body.
2) Horses are highly sensitive to the emotional state of individuals: Horses are a prey animal, which makes them extra sensitive to the emotions of those around them. It’s not rare for a horse to understand how someone feels before they understand their own emotional state. Horses use this knowledge to either engage or back away from a situation or person, which can help someone with disabilities better understand their emotions.
3) Horses sooth the soul: Handicapped riders learn how to relax and unwind from spending time with horses. From grooming to riding, every part of equine therapy is soothing.
4) No judgement: For those who suffer from a disability such as autism, horses provide great comfort. In a way, they act as a “safe person” as they are unable to judge. There have been reports of kids with autism speaking their first words after equine therapy.
There’s no doubt about it, horses are good for the soul! If you want to find a facility near you that offers equine therapy, click here.
