Horses have a long history of collaboration with humans, from being an early mode of transportation to assisting with farm work. In recent years, these powerful creatures have taken on yet another impressive role as aided therapy animals. Horses have become an important partner for many occupational therapists. Their impressive resume does not end there, as many health professionals consider horses to be excellent additions to cancer patient therapy. This practice, known as equine therapy in Victoria, can be carried out in a variety of ways. From walking alongside a horse to riding atop one, equine therapy can have profound effects on both cancer patients and their loved ones.
Still have reservations about equine therapy? Here are five reasons why you should try it:
1. Fostering a deep connection, whether you love animals or not
Bonding with an animal is simple for some people. Some people are naturally drawn to animals of all kinds, while others avoid them. Horses are one of the few animals that work hard to connect with humans. Horses respond to patients in unusual ways, such as mirroring their emotions. Horses are even known to sync their heartbeat with their rider (or walker), fostering a strong bond.
2. Physical rehabilitation
Not all aspects of equine therapy are psychological. This one-of-a-kind therapy is also beneficial to physiological measures. Hand-eye coordination and low-impact exercise are two of the many benefits of caring for a horse.
3. Empowerment
Equine therapy can be an extremely empowering experience for cancer patients, whether it is learning something new or having the ability to do something on one’s own. Patients who participate in this type of therapy frequently express a sense of control and the ability to overcome fear and nervousness.
4. Less anxiety
It is difficult to pinpoint the precise reason why patients feel less anxious after participating in equine therapy. Perhaps it has to do with a sense of empowerment. Perhaps it’s the physical activity. It could even be the special bond formed with the lovely animal. Regardless of why patients experience less anxiety after equine therapy, feeling more relaxed and clear-headed is something that most cancer patients could greatly benefit from.
5. A much-needed change of scenery
Hospitals are an incredible network of resources and teams. Without them, society would be devastated. As amazing as they are, their sterile corridors can often feel like a prison for a long-term patient. Many wonderful therapies can take place within the walls of a hospital, but equine therapy is not one of them. Patients must travel to a green and fresh location for this type of therapy. Getting some fresh air in a wide-open field can be rejuvenating in and of itself. The green pastures provide an opportunity to tune out all disease-related thoughts and live in the moment.
Will it work for everyone?
Therapy with horses can be a good option for adolescents and adults, especially those who have had negative therapy experiences, dislike talk therapy, or find it difficult to put feelings into words.
“I love equine therapy for kids and teens who find office talk therapy intimidating and uncomfortable. ”Sometimes, just brushing the horse while talking changes the entire experience for them,” Devoille says.
She also recommends the approach for anyone looking to address relationship issues, social skills, or family dynamics, because equine-assisted therapy allows you to practice building a relationship, which can transfer to relationships outside of therapy.
It goes without saying that therapy with horses may not be the best option if you have allergies or a strong fear of horses. (However, if you want to overcome a fear or phobia of horses, gradual exposure can make a big difference. Just keep in mind that exposure therapy requires a completely different approach.)
Hamer Equine Assisted Learning (H.E.A.L.) provides physically and psychologically safe experiences with horses. We give participants the opportunity to explore issues that are bothering them or simply to enjoy being in the space with the horses. to learn more about what we do Please visit our website by clicking here.