What is Equine-assisted Therapy?
Therapeutic riding is an equine-assisted activity for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with special needs.
Throughout the world, hundreds of thousands of individuals with and without special needs experience the rewarding benefits of equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT). A physical, cognitive or emotional special need does not limit a person from interacting with horses. In fact, such interactions can prove highly rewarding. For instance, experiencing the rhythmic motion of a horse can be very beneficial. Riding a horse moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human gait, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.
Whether it's a five-year-old with Down syndrome, a 45-year-old recovering from a spinal cord injury, a senior citizen recovering from a stroke or a teenager struggling with depression, research shows that individuals of all ages who participate in EAAT can experience physical and emotional rewards. For individuals with emotional challenges, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. For teams in the corporate workplace and any individual seeking better leadership, team building or communication skills, working with horses provides a powerful new paradigm.
Source: PATH International
My daughter has been coming to Divine Equine to help with her selective mutism and it has already made such a big difference in her life. She immediately felt at home with the animals and all the welcoming and warm staff and volunteers. The sessions are allowing her to feel special and respected in her own rhythm. Her confidence is starting to build in social situations. There's just no words to describe the connection and bonding between her and the horse (this connection continues even after the session!) and that is exactly what makes her want to talk louder and be heard. We are blessed to be part of this program and can't wait to continue the sessions. Thank you for your amazing work :)
- Anne, parent
My beautiful son is 15 and has mod/severe autism and a LOT of anxiety. New things are HARD for him (even good things). Since he has begun riding he has been much more regulated and flexible - even through COVID-19 times. He is learning to be more patient during transitions, communicating with the horses verbally to get him what he wants and truly understanding right/left concepts for the first time. Kristy has been great with him as have the volunteers. He always looks forward to his weekly ride time! I look forward to watching him make further gains in the future.
- Wendy, parent