In the past, horses were used for many activities. Instead, it has been known to take advantage of its morphology to treat some diseases in humans.
According to specialists in Equine Assisted Therapy, riding practice transmits rhythmic impulses. They are directed from the back of the horse to the rider's waist, passing through the spine and expanding throughout the body. These cause positive results in those pathologies that affect the motor or muscular apparatus of our body. Psychologically, therapists believe that the horse's galloping movements serve to restore self-confidence.
What is equine therapy?
Equine therapy is a therapy that complements traditional treatments. This type of Equine Therapy Australia uses horses to provide people with special needs with new benefits.
This therapy is personalized since the objectives are set by the team of professionals based on observation, interview, and previous diagnosis. During the sessions, work is done to improve physical, sensory, mental, emotional, and social development.
The team that intervenes during the sessions is made up of a professional (psychologist, physiotherapist, or teacher), a monitor specializing in riding (who handles the horse), and a volunteer who supports the professional.
Equine Therapy Sunshine Coast also takes advantage of the horse's body temperature. The difference in temperatures helps to stretch and relax the muscles and ligaments. Psychologically, the psycho-affective area is worked on, and it is used for early stimulation.
Another principle highlighted by therapists is the transmission of a locomotor pattern that is equivalent to walking. Riding a horse allows working with people in wheelchairs, developing stability between the trunk and the head.
Physical and psychological benefits of horse therapy
According to the therapists, horse-assisted therapy offers many physical and psychological advantages for both adults and children. If you want to attend an Equine Therapies near Me session, we recommend that you consult your doctor beforehand.
So, here you summarize the physical benefits of equestrian therapy:
- Improve balance
- Control posture
- Strengthen muscles
- Improves neuromotor coordination
On a psychological level, it also favors:
- Increases self-esteem and self-confidence
- Stimulates attention, concentration, communication, and language
- Develop self-control
- Promotes respect for animals and nature
Equestrian therapy modalities
Within Equine Assisted Learning, there are different modalities to practice it. Each of them focuses on various aspects based on the physical and mental possibilities of the people who attend.
It consists of a series of physiotherapeutic exercises performed on top of the horse. As mentioned above, it takes advantage of the horse's heat transmission, rhythmic impulses, and the transmission of a locomotors pattern.
It is one of the most used therapies. It consists of the patient's adaptation to the riding of the horse, and the affection with the animal is stimulated. The environment where it is practiced, and the people who participate are also involved, whether professionals or family members who accompany the patient.
It is the riding itself but adapted to the needs of the person riding the horse. For example, adaptations are made so that you can climb the animal or while riding it.
It consists of performing exercises on top of the horse. It favors the balance and the coordination of the extremities.