Harness the Therapeutic Power of Horses
In addition to teaching traditional horseback riding skills, we focus on the emotional, behavioral and psychological benefits of horseback riding. Many of 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 student can be challenged to learn how to ride a horse, but also learn critical life skills in the process.
Our program has three main focuses:
- Before a student rides, everyone learns basic horsemanship. This includes recognizing and learning to read horse behavior, basic anatomy, tack parts, and feeding. They also learn safety: approaching, haltering, tying (safety knots), leading and grooming, identifying body parts and hoof care.Β
- Every student will also learn how to ride a horse. This includes balance & posture, understanding their horse’s gaits (walk, trot, and canter), mastering the leg, seat, hand cues for communicating, and building a trusting relationship with their horse.
- Perhaps most importantly, we teach mindfulness and critical life skills, like how to reduce anxiety, regulate emotions, build self confidence, social and communication skills and more. We also spend a lot of time working on mastering gross and fine motor skills, language development, and following directions.
Riding horses involves a unique repetitive motion that activates various parts of the brain. The child’s body moves in sync with the horse’s 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 riding 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 equestrian 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 learn management techniques and reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Increased confidence and self-esteem: Successfully riding and partnering with 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 a deeper connection with oneself and the nature around them.
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 awareness.- 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 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 gross & 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 and challenging you on this enriching journey with our gentle and intuitive horses.
Contact us!
Join us to experience the healing power of horses! To learn more about pricing and registering for horseback riding lessons, please fill out the form below and we will get back in touch with you as soon as possible!