Does Equine Therapy Work?
Equine therapy is an innovative approach that integrates horses (or simulators) into mental health treatment. Sometimes, people call it equine-assisted therapy, therapeutic riding, or equestrian therapy.
With equine-assisted therapy, children can learn to accept others and themselves by working with horses or riding simulators. They gain a connection with the horse or simulator and can experience many benefits through its motions.
Research has shown that equine therapy can treat people with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. However, it goes further to deal with autism, ADHD, and many other mental health issues.
According to the Autism Parenting Magazine (2020), teenagers showed more calmness, self-esteem, confidence, emotional regulation, and assertiveness because of equine-assisted therapy. Sometimes, it only takes a few sessions to see improvements.
On top of that, equine therapy can reduce depression and anxiety through physiological changes. The children reduce their production of cortisol, which is a stress-producing hormone. From there, it can also add calmness to the situation, which can lower blood pressure. It also increases oxytocin release, a natural chemical that can promote positive feelings.
Horses are uniquely sensitive to other people’s feelings. They can also react to various subtle changes within their environment. Therefore, a horse can sense the teen’s emotional state, such as anxiety or depression.
Simulators (machines that mimic the riding of a horse) are frequently used by parents and schools, as well as therapists. However, they do not provide the emotional connection that a horse can. Still, it can relax and calm a distressed person, so they can talk about their feelings more adequately.
As a result, people feel accepted and find that their mental health improves with time.
The Advantages of Equine Therapy
More Self-esteem and Confidence. Teens learn how to stay calm, which can help them use their coping mechanisms. Through that, they gain confidence and self-esteem to be active members of society. They’re often more motivated in school and home life.
Improved Balance, Posture, and Mobility. Those who have posture, mobility, or balance problems may find that riding a horse simulator can help. The gentle and slow movements help children and teens find their center. They must sit up straight to avoid falling over. They then develop muscle memory to help them in everyday activities.
More Strength and Coordination. When riding a horse, you need coordination and strength. The simulator helps children develop that with time. Even a few minutes a day can build more coordination and help with fine motor skills. They also strengthen their core, which helps them sit up straight and have more balance while walking.
Better Communication Skills. Equine therapy can teach people how important nonverbal communication is. Though there’s no live horse to react, they can improve their mood, which helps them talk instead of getting upset or frustrated. Ultimately, they learn to pick up nonverbal cues from others and focus more on positivity than negativity.
Feelings of Calmness Instead of Worry. Many children and teens find that they worry all the time. When they sit on the simulator, they experience calmness. There’s a gentle movement that relaxes their minds and bodies. On top of that, it’s rhythmic and continues in a similar pattern. Those who have trouble concentrating find that the movement helps them focus for longer periods.
With that, they aren’t worried about not being good enough or doing something wrong. Ultimately, that’s why parents and teachers use equine therapy through simulators.
Trust. Equine therapy through a simulator can also help provide a sense of trust. Many teens and children experience abuse, abandonment, or trauma. When they are allowed to ride the simulator on specific days, it instills trust for the therapists and parents. You’re allowing them to do it, promising it, and following through.
Learn About REST by GAIT
If you’re looking for a responsive horse simulator, check out our Responsive Equine Simulator Therapy chair aka. REST.
GAIT, LLC
P.O. Box 6066
South Bend, IN 46615-6066
844.264.REST
Visit: https://restbygait.com/
External Links:
