Why Use Horses?
Therapeutic riding can be beneficial to almost anyone with any kind of special needs. The benefits of therapeutic riding fall into three categories – physical, mental, and emotional. Instructors employ a variety of physical tasks that help improve balance, muscle strength, flexibility, joint movement, and posture. Since horseback riding is exciting, adrenaline flows and endorphines are produced in the body which causes the riders to experience feelings of well-being which may last for days. This effect can be said to enhance the quality of life for the rider. For individuals with mental or emotional disabilities we work with teachers, parents and the riders to set specific goals. The unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. The horse is used as a motivator to increase language skills, improve ability to follow instructions, increase attention span and other similar goals. These new skills and attitudes are carried over into the school, home, and workplace. Most lessons utilize exercises and games to keep it interesting for the riders, but it is actually a form of therapy. Games incorporate eye hand coordination, verbal skills and lots of laughing!
There is an entire army of battle-scarred people in this world who have overcome tremendous challenges through the use of horses. Somehow, when people are placed on a horse they become whole again. We believe that the worst aspect of facing adversity is surrendering control. Sometimes we are unable to control the havoc that injury, illness or fate has caused in our lives, but we can control our beloved equine partners. A mere flick of a rein or a tap of our heel and we can control a 1,000-pound animal. The cadence of our horse’s gate becomes a soothing lullaby. Our horse trots and we find balance. Our horse canters and we rediscover purpose. Our horse gallops and our hearts soar. We are unbound by pain and unbridled by regret. With each stride, our horses lift us up emotionally, physically, and mentally and these are joyous feelings.
Our Guests
These are a few of our friends who have become a part of our family here at High Praise Ranch. They’re lives have been transformed through riding as the undoubtedly changed ours.
Mary
Mary is a treasure to all who meet her. The joy and excitement that comes while riding a horse brings a beautiful smile to one’s face.
