Why do we partner with horses?
There is increasing evidence of the benefits that result from the horse-human connection.
- Horses are intelligent, highly social animals that primarily use body language to communicate. As herd animals, they depend on connection and relationships for safety, security, and emotional well-being.
- They are sentient beings, making intentional decisions based on the physical and emotional state of those in their environment [8].
- Having lived alongside humans for centuries, horses have developed the ability to recognize human emotions based on facial expressions, body language, vocal tone, heart rate, and breathing patterns [2,9]. This relationship thus extends past mere familiarity to one that is based on emotional connection.
- Researchers have found that “simply being in the presence of horses can result in physiological, social-emotional, and mental benefits” [10].
At Helping Horse, our programs are based on the evidence that the horse-human connection opens the door for impactful benefits and skill-development.
there's even More evidence!
Reduces Stress
A relationship with a horse has proven to reduce stress. When humans interact with horses, their heart rate and blood pressure can decrease, and their cortisol (stress hormone) levels can drop [2,9]. Even non-verbal riders and unmounted participants connect in deeply emotional and spiritual ways with their horse.
Benefits Physical and Psychosocial Health
The rhythmic movement of the horse mimics human gait patterns, which can help in improving physical balance, coordination, and strength [4]. Additionally, the sense of independence and achievement from learning to ride can have positive psychosocial effects, such as increased self-esteem, trust, social competence, self-worth, agency, and confidence [2,6,10,12,13].
Engages Individuals with Autism
“Horses can create a calming environment and provide sensory input that can be beneficial for individuals with autism. The interactions have the potential to improve social engagement and communication skills” [1].
Provides Opportunity for Mindfulness
Engaging with horses allows one to practice mindfulness - a “practical way to rehearse being in the moment, both calm and present, which is the only effective way to learn to communicate with the horses successfully” [6]. Horses mirror our emotions and state of being which allows for self-reflection and stress management [6].
The immersive experience of a session at Helping Horse brings participants fully into the present moment within a safe space where they can feel at ease, relax, and focus on the joy of communication with a sensitive and responsive animal.
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