Equine therapy 2

An important and almost fundamental point in experiencing the success of this therapy is that the treatment is not seen as something expensive or inconvenient, it is not a sacrifice that has the reward of recuperation, but it is seen as something fun and enjoyable, so the predisposition of the patient is already won. As it is an outside treatment, it also favors interaction with the environment and gives a greater sense of freedom. We can say that, from the psychological realm, riding, equine therapy or natural medicine with horses improves self esteem and concentration in the people treated, which also has a lot of influence when it comes to rehabilitation from an illness.

On top of physical rehabilitation of which this therapy is capable of producing in people, the psychological help is fundamental as the simple fact of being able to control a horse is very gratifying. Although the effectiveness of this medicine has be proven on a multitude of occasions, it is essential that it be accompanies by other medical treatments. The first contact with the horse is fundamental for a good relationship and so it can be something special.  Mutual trust is essential.  Therefore, the main thing is not to be afraid and to stroke the animal to begin getting to know one another.

As we have said before, equine therapy is not teaching someone how to ride a horse.  It is much more than that. It consists in achieving harmony between the body, the movements of the horse, and the sensations of the person. Normally, the sick person will be placed on the horse's withers (the highest part of the spine) though, with time, the postures will vary to improve the balance and even the blood flow to certain body parts. Normally, the sick person is situated on the horse's withers, the place where the horse's spine is highest.  Later, other postures will be tried that favor blood flow, sensory stimulation and balance.

The number and length of times in contact with the horse is essential.  It should be progressive, beginning normally at 15 minutes, two times a week to be able to later work up to an hour in length.
For perfect coordination between animal and person you should try to keep in mind that, before riding, a session of warm up is necessary to condition the body to the exercise it is about to get. And after riding, it is also necessary to have a cool down for the horse.