Horseback riding is probably the last thing that comes to mind when talking about mental health therapies. Nonetheless, equine-assisted therapy is becoming a popular therapeutic option with a slew of advantages.

Horses can assist people in overcoming obstacles, trauma, and anxiety.

An activity with horses may not appear to be the same as chatting with a therapist because it is a leisure sport and, for many people, a new experience. Still, the research shows that those who suffer from anxiety or trauma might find horses to be their best companion and therapist on the road to recovery. Learn more about hamerequine assisted learning

Getting Through Horse Therapy’s Obstacles

When confronted with horses’ alluring power, it’s natural to assume they can’t handle sensitive concerns like trauma and anxiety. Some people are afraid about failing to handle a horse on their first try. Some people believe that horses are easily frightened and might become harmful rather than helpful.

A delicate creature sits alongside that forceful attitude, providing a mirror into one’s psyche. Because one ride may be enough to demonstrate the breadth of their assistance. The advantages of equine-assisted therapy range from anxiety reduction to helping a person recover from a traumatic experience.

In a single session, there are two therapists.

Equine-assisted treatment can be divided into two categories. On one hand, this type of therapy requires the supervision of a medical practitioner, such as a psychotherapist. Then there’s the horse, which has become a popular therapeutic animal. While other animals can bring relief and companionship, horses have a significant benefit.

Horses have the ability to replicate their handlers’ emotions when they interact. They instantly break down the barrier between them and the people who seek therapy by replicating their feelings and providing feedback.

Deeply feeling and firmly encouraging trust

Horses are a conundrum in and of themselves. They are massive beasts that are both strong and awe-inspiring. They are, however, extremely sensitive to the point where they may know exactly what you are feeling—sometimes even better than you do.

This is because horses are herd animals who are sensitive to the feelings of others around them. As a result, they reflect these feelings in order to respond appropriately to the scenario.

Horses, it turns out, also represent some attributes and traits that people who suffer from anxiety and trauma do. They’re wary and sensitive creatures, as though they’re continuously on the watch for a threat. People who have experienced trauma and have unhealed wounds are familiar with this sensation. Horses can also be quickly startled if not handled correctly, which is something that individuals with anxiety can relate to, especially on bad days.

What Does Equine-Assisted Therapy Entail?

The range of activities available is what makes this approach so appealing. Some people think it’s just about riding horses, but clients may get a lot out of the experience.

On some days, clients can ride the horse and let the rhythm help them relax physically and mentally. On other days, the client can just share the space with the horse without touching or interacting with it in any way. The therapist selects how the activities will flow, as long as it follows the client’s overall therapeutic flow.

Life Has Less Anxiety

Anxiety can be reduced in a number of ways with equine-assisted therapy. During the lessons, you can experiment with a variety of techniques. Cognitive therapy, interactive activities, and play therapy are three aspects of this therapeutic method.

Cognitive Therapy

is a type of therapy that involves the use of the mind to solve problems.

This element of the therapy makes use of the horse’s ability to detect danger and to be hyperaware of his surroundings. When this happens in the context of anxiety therapy, clients can communicate their feelings and then process them with the therapist.

They can discuss about anxiety in a safer and detached manner by focusing on the horse’s anxiety. This is sometimes required, especially for people who do not feel ready to face their own fears. They may even be more daring in confronting topics with which they are uncomfortable. It’s because they can concentrate on another person’s emotions and examine them without feeling overwhelmed or humiliated.

Therapeutic Play

For children or individuals who require an outlet for their feelings other than verbal expression, play therapy is frequently used in counseling. Play therapy in an equine-assisted therapy setting allows kids to participate in fun activities such as horseback riding. This style of therapy may also include storytelling, which allows the client to explore storylines that may touch on their own feelings without putting them or their anxieties on show directly.

Activities that are Interactive

Therapists can also help anxious clients open up to new experiences without taking away their control. Grooming horses or riding them are two examples of equine-assisted therapy activities. The idea is for the client to be able to go at their own pace while still being stimulated to recover.

Trauma Recovery

Horses are among the greatest animals for trauma and PTSD therapy, according to research. When it comes to these difficulties, trust is crucial, but horses, like humans, have a delicate relationship with it.

Other animals, such as dogs, can trust humans right away and form relationships from there. When it comes to horses, the entire connection has the potential to sow the seeds of future relationships. They must strive with their human companions to build trust, or they will continue to feel threatened.

Individuals who have experienced trauma have a similar story. Trust is difficult to regain after a big trauma; it necessitates healing and reconnecting at one’s own time. Equine-assisted therapy creates a firm footing for both parties to find peace by combining a horse’s ability to provide feedback and be sensitive to others with the slow but steady establishment of relationships.

It’s difficult to find comfort and healing, especially in circumstances of anxiety and trauma. Small steps, accomplished with a friend who shares your vibe, can, however, be the most significant advancement possible.

For more information about Melbourne Equine Therapy, call Annie on 0411 549562 or go to www.hamerequineassistedlearning.com.