Horseback Riding Program

Harness the Therapeutic Power of Horses

 

In addition to teaching traditional horseback riding skills, we focus on the emotional and psychological benefits of horseback riding. These often involve the behavioral and emotional support we provide. Our students come to us with anxiety, low self esteem, depression and lack of emotional regulation skills. Horseback riding provides not only fun, outdoor activities, where the child can be challenged to learn how to ride a horse, but also learn critical life skills in the process.

Horseback riding involves a unique repetitive motion that activates various parts of the brain. The child’s body moves in sync with the horses gait and this constant need to adjust and maintain balance has a calming effect on the brain, making it easier for riders to regulate their emotions. Students work one-on-one with our certified teaching instructor, to learn riding skills, while also practicing mindfulness to become more self aware, and also enhancing the bond with their horse. Through this approach, riders not only gain the physical benefits of horseback riding, but also emotional, social, and cognitive benefits as well.

What differentiates us from a traditional riding program are the horsemanship skills we teach, but also the behavioral and emotional support we provide, setting students up with the foundational skills needed to navigate the world, grounded, confident and with a firm footing.

Social and Emotional Benefits:
  • Emotional regulation: The rhythmic motion of horse riding has a calming effect on the brain, making it easier for riders to regulate their emotions, helping individuals manage emotions and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Increased confidence and self-esteem: Successfully riding and controlling a horse fosters a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-confidence.
  • Enhanced social skills: The program encourages communication and teamwork, as participants often interact with instructors, peers, and the horses themselves, improving social interactions and relationships.
  • Sense of responsibility: Caring for and riding a horse instills a sense of responsibility and discipline, as participants learn to understand and meet the needs of their equine partners.
  • Mindfulness and presence: We teach breath work and mindfulness which is incorporated throughout the lesson. Students are taught how to “be in the moment”, promoting mindfulness and a deeper connection with oneself and nature.
Physical Benefits:
  • Improved balance and coordination: Riding a horse requires maintaining balance and coordinating movements with the horse, which strengthens core muscles and enhances overall body coordination.
  • Enhanced muscle tone and flexibility: The act of riding works various muscle groups, promoting muscle tone and flexibility, particularly in the legs, back, and abdomen.
  • Cardiovascular health: Horseback riding is an excellent form of moderate exercise, contributing to improved cardiovascular health and stamina.
  • Refined motor skills: The repetitive actions involved in riding, such as guiding the horse and adjusting posture, help refine fine gross and fine motor skills and overall dexterity.

 

Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment where participants can thrive physically, socially, and emotionally. We look forward to guiding you on this enriching journey with our gentle and intuitive horses.

Lesson cost

$115/lesson

Scholarship rate

$85/lesson

Or $320 for package of 4 lessons.

 

Contact us!

Join us and experience the healing power of horses! To learn more about registering for horseback riding lessons, please fill out the form below and we will get back in touch with you as soon as possible!

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    ✏️ Mark your calendars! 📆

    Giving Tuesday is just around the corner on December 2nd. Share some holiday cheer with the same enthusiasm that Desi shares hay!

    Speaking of hay, this is a wonderful opportunity to help us raise funds for a new barn. Together, we can ensure that our horses remain comfortable during inclement weather and provide a safe haven for any future horses with health challenges like our now-retired Sunbeam.

    You can donate directly on our website at any time by visiting the following link- foxmoonfarm.org/donate/
    ... See MoreSee Less

    ✏️ Mark your calendars! 📆Giving Tuesday is just around the corner on December 2nd. Share some holiday cheer with the same enthusiasm that Desi shares hay!Speaking of hay, this is a wonderful opportunity to help us raise funds for a new barn. Together, we can ensure that our horses remain comfortable during inclement weather and provide a safe haven for any future horses with health challenges like our now-retired Sunbeam.You can donate directly on our website at any time by visiting the following link- https://foxmoonfarm.org/donate/Image attachment

    Sometimes the unexpected has a way of hopping into our lives. For the first time since our program was founded, we welcome six equines to the farm. Joining our three horses and two mini donkeys, is Bunny... the horse! 🐰

    Rescued by Kiele, who was smitten by her willing nature and kind eyes, Bunny is already blazing trails not only as a new member, but also as the youngest to join our herd at 6 years old! Bunny is a petite, 15.3 dark bay Thoroughbred mare, who is eager to have a stable place to land after bouncing around mystery auctions for the past three years.

    She has already shown her sweet nature with a few of our young kids and we are confident that she is a wonderful addition to our program, as she blossoms into her second career after the whole racing gig didn't work out (and we're sure glad it didn't)!
    ... See MoreSee Less

    Sometimes the unexpected has a way of hopping into our lives. For the first time since our program was founded, we welcome six equines to the farm. Joining our three horses and two mini donkeys, is Bunny... the horse! 🐰Rescued by Kiele, who was smitten by her willing nature and kind eyes, Bunny is already blazing trails not only as a new member, but also as the youngest to join our herd at 6 years old! Bunny is a petite, 15.3 dark bay Thoroughbred mare, who is eager to have a stable place to land after bouncing around mystery auctions for the past three years.She has already shown her sweet nature with a few of our young kids and we are confident that she is a wonderful addition to our program, as she blossoms into her second career after the whole racing gig didnt work out (and were sure glad it didnt)!Image attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment

    We have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. As we express our gratitude, we want to especially recognize our clients, families, friends, volunteers, donors, and our wonderful herd of horses.

    Our horses play a vital role in our Equine Assisted Learning programs, and we also cherish the opportunities for nature-based learning throughout our farm. This year, we would like to honor the Native Mattaponi and Rappahannock nations, whose heritage has significantly influenced the land where we have built our incredible organization. By celebrating the history of everyone involved, we strengthen our community.
    ... See MoreSee Less

    We have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. As we express our gratitude, we want to especially recognize our clients, families, friends, volunteers, donors, and our wonderful herd of horses.Our horses play a vital role in our Equine Assisted Learning programs, and we also cherish the opportunities for nature-based learning throughout our farm. This year, we would like to honor the Native Mattaponi and Rappahannock nations, whose heritage has significantly influenced the land where we have built our incredible organization. By celebrating the history of everyone involved, we strengthen our community.
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    Healing, Learning, and Growing Together: Empowering Lives through Horses, Community, and Wellness.