Equine therapy, usually referred to as horse therapy, is a kind of therapeutic intervention in which horses are used as part of a treatment program for people with physical, emotional, or mental health disorders. Though many individuals ponder if this sort of therapy is supported by data, it is growing in popularity. The validity of equine therapy will be examined in this article, along with questions about the three types of horses and whether or not they can recognize a decent person.
Even though there is little study on equine therapy, the evidence that is now available points to its effectiveness. According to a review of studies published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, horse therapy improves the physical and mental health of people with a range of diseases, such as cerebral palsy, autism, and depression. Equestrian therapy was beneficial in lowering the symptoms of anxiety and depression in teenagers, according to another study that was published in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing.
Which Three Groups of Horses Exist?
Based on their temperament and conduct, horses are divided into three groups for equestrian therapy. These are classified into three groups: “hot,” “cold,” and “warm.” Horses that are “hot” are those that are highly active, enthusiastic, and easily aroused. On the other side, “cold” horses are less agitated, relaxed, and tense. “Warm” horses are in the middle and a suitable option for people who seek a healthy mix of action and tranquility.
The effectiveness of a patient’s therapy can be significantly impacted by the horse selection. For instance, a “hot” horse can be too overpowering for someone who suffers from anxiety, while a “cold” horse might not be stimulating enough for someone who suffers from depression.
Many people think horses are capable of reading people’s emotions and personalities. Although there is no hard proof to back up this assertion, there are anecdotal accounts of horses acting differently when near particular people. According to some experts, horses may be able to detect minute nuances in a person’s body language or speech that may have an impact on their behavior.
The bond between the patient and the horse is crucial to the therapeutic process in equine therapy. Creating a connection with the horse can aid in the development of trust, empathy, and emotional control. Whether or whether horses can feel a nice person, working with them has obvious therapeutic advantages.
In conclusion, people with a variety of physical, emotional, or mental health issues have an evidence-based therapeutic option in equine therapy. The evidence that is now available indicates that it may be useful in enhancing physical and psychological outcomes, while additional research is required to fully grasp its advantages and restrictions. It’s crucial to pick the correct horse for each client’s therapy, and horses can be divided into three groups depending on temperament and behavior. Horses’ importance in equine therapy is evident, and they can aid those in need of therapy even though there is no scientific proof that they can feel when someone is good.