Health & Travel - Horses are Special Friends that Help Heal

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Horses Help Physical, Mental, Emotional Health

With 2/3 of working adults saying that work causes a lot of stress, and 40% say that work affects their health - we need all the help we can get. Enter stage left.....a horse. Did you know that horses were partnered with humans for therapy written about by Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician between 460-375 B.C.? It's also noted in the 1600's that physicians applied horse therapy for physical & mental sickness.

Because horses have similar social behaviors to humans, especially in areas like interacting & responding to others, it's easy for us to connect with them. As you observe them mimicking your movements or feelings, you'll get a sense of calm and, feel like somebody really understands you.

You can be tired, stressed, angry, or a little depressed. If you give horses a try, they can help change those feelings. Spend time with your horse buddy - brush him/her, really talk to him, and walk with him. Before you know it, you'll feel a little lighter and a little happier. Your worries will begin melting away as you focus on the moment - just you & your new special friend.

I volunteer at a therapeutic horse facility - it's super fun and it helps keep me de-stressed & refreshed. That's a Win-Win.

FYI: If you can't afford riding lessons, ask about volunteering. You don't need to ride to experience healing. If you need therapeutic riding or non-riding lessons for a diagnosed condition, there are programs that help with costs.

What Health Conditions Can Horses Help With

Therapeutic benefits include: Improved physical strength, cognitive functions, confidence, independence, social skills, communication, trust, perspective, impulse control, and understanding boundaries.

Anxiety, Stress, Depression

Develops from past experiences and/or future fears. It can be paralyzing & cause depression. Horses reallty help stress/anxiety by calming the nervous system.

Mental Health, Behavioral Disorders

PTSD, ADHD, autism, eating disorders, substance misuse, abuse, etc. Horses are comforting, consistent, calming, and keep us focused on the present moment. Both horse & human can nurture each other.

Non-Riding Options

Interactions like brushing & walking also provide you with many health benefits.

Children & Dependent Older Adults

Reading out loud to animals improves sharing & social skills. It also lowers behavioral problems & anxiety since animals are non-judgmental.

Aging Adults

Horses offer a life purpose, helps treat arthritis, and encourages social connections.

Other Conditions

Cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, spinal cord injury, head injury, and more.

Bottom Line for Wellness

• If having a pet doesn't fit into your daily schedule - no worries. Befriend a horse or a friends dog. A weekly visit will still bring about healing & improved wellness. Since my last precious dog Benny passed, I'm blessed by taking my friend's dog for walks.

• Did you know that horses as well as dogs are an approved "Service Animal" according to the American's with Disability Act?

• Plan your next health-infusing mini retreat by spending time with a horse friend. It'll do wonders for your entire being.

I mean come on.....who wouldn't like this little poof-ball?

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