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Sunrise EquiTherapy | Therapeutic Riding

The physical and psychological benefits of horseback riding have been documented for hundreds of years. However, it was not until the 1960”s that the medical profession began to consider the horse as a legitimate therapeutic tool for individuals of all ages with cognitive and physical disabilities. The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) was established in 1969 to set standards for the implementation of therapeutic riding. There were only four therapeutic riding centers and 60 members. Today, there are more then 25,000 children and adults with disabilities participating in programs at more then 700 therapeutic riding centers across the U.S. and Canada.

Individuals of all ages with diverse disabilities can benefit from equine assisted activities / therapy. It is a way for children and adults to discover a whole new world of freedom, responsibility, dignity and fun. Every aspect of the riding experience can be beneficial to the rider:

  • the relationship between horse, rider,
  • the movement of the horse
  • the smells of the barn, the hay, the horse, and the countryside
  • the feel of the horse - the warm body, the soft coat, the coarse mane
  • the visual and auditory experiences in the barn & surrounding countryside
  • the respect for the horse
  • controlling the horse
Most importantly it provides an overwhelming sense of accomplishment for all involved riders, volunteers, parents and instructors. Even the horses sense their responsibility.

The movement of the horse mimics the movement of the human body while walking. Because the horse moves in different directions, forward and backward, side to side, and up and down the rider reacts to the horse’s every movement. This rhythmic motion encourages better balance, flexibility, muscular strength and control.

The psychological benefits are many:

  • mastering verbal commands
  • controlling the horse
  • increased self-confidence and self-esteem
  • a sense of independence
  • development of patience and self-control
  • increased social development with the interaction of volunteers, therapists and instructors
  • sensory stimulation - the sights, sounds, smells of the environment
Riders benefit in MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT!!