Therapeutic riding is an emerging field in which horses are used as a tool for building communication skills, physical capabilities, social skills, and emotional growth.

Not only does this help raise their self-esteem but it also teaches them many other essential and sustainable life skills.

Research shows that students who participate in therapeutic riding can experience noticeable physical, emotional and mental benefits.

Because…………

The 3-dimensional gait of the horse closely simulates the movement of the human pelvis and is a valuable therapeutic tool. This movement and the warmth of the horse promote many physical benefits such as increased circulation, relaxation of tight muscles, strengthening of weak muscles, increase in pelvic & trunk mobility, development of balance & coordination and improvement in posture.

The principles of Equine Facilitated Learning are basic and easy to understand. The horse is the perfect mirror of the human that is (horses do not lie). The horse is looking to have feelings of safety and peace always. This is because the horse is a 'prey' animal always looking over its shoulder for the 'predator'. When the human begins to make conscious and appropriate requests, rather than demands of the horse, cooperation begins to happen. When a human waits for and notices responses of the horse to the human's communication then they are truly showing acknowledgement and respect for the horse. Trust and respect are earned with horses in much the same way as with people. The 'golden rule' applies to horses.