Research has shown that equine assisted therapy improves patients' postural balance, self-esteem, and mental health. The horse's nonverbal cues, such as how a person holds his hands, are very sensitive to human emotions. This helps children realize how important non-verbal communication is. Additionally, this therapy encourages a child to connect with nature and improves his/her self-esteem.
One of the most appealing aspects of equine assisted therapy
is that it can benefit clients of all ages. Many clients of equine therapy are
hesitant to engage in any physical activity, but they will engage in this type
of therapy. They also benefit from sensory stimulation, which is difficult to
achieve in other forms of therapy. A trained mental health professional will be
able to assess the client's needs and help them decide if this type of therapy
is right for them.
A therapy horse can also engage clients who may not normally
participate in activities that require human interaction. Equine-assisted
therapy has been proven to be effective for many clients. The horse's gentle
nature, keen observation, and willingness to listen to clients help
equine-assisted therapists engage patients who would not otherwise be able to
fully participate in such activities. During the sessions, the client receives
a variety of sensory stimulation that can help the client cope with their
condition.
The human-equine connection is a natural and caring one.
Studies have also proven that children who interact with equine-assisted
therapy horses become more resilient and more willing to engage in challenging
activities. In addition to improving patient self-esteem and self-confidence,
children who engage in equine-assisted therapy also increase their capacity for
impulse control and behavioral regulation. This bond has been shown to improve
a child's quality of life and help him/her cope with difficulties in a more
healthy way.
Among the many benefits of equine assisted therapy is the
immediate feedback it provides its participants. The horse gives feedback that
can be helpful in addressing clients' goals. Moreover, the client gains a sense
of accomplishment when they successfully communicate with the horse. And the
therapy also teaches participants how to better interact with the horse, which
can help them to better deal with their emotional and mental health challenges.
In addition, equine-assisted therapy can also be a way to learn how to express
themselves in a more effective way.
Another benefit of equine assisted therapy is that it can
improve both physical and psychosocial health. Moreover, it can help with the
rehabilitation of a patient with multiple sclerosis, such as those with
cognitive disabilities. As a result, equine therapy improves the quality of
life of a patient with various challenges. It is one of the most common
therapies in the world. But, it is not without its limitations.
