“There is something about the outside of the horse that is good for the inside of man,” Teddy Roosevelt is credited with saying. It is especially true of the benefits of therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs, the disabled, the autistic, as well as troubled teens.
Horses for Healing is a therapeutic riding center in north Auburn that has been serving the community since 1997. It is registered with PATH International, the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International to promote safe and effective equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs. Patients with cancer, cerebral palsy, depression, Down syndrome, learning disabilities, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, spinal cord injuries, head injuries, Attention Deficit Disorder, stroke, visual impairments and other ailments have been benefited by therapeutic horseback riding. The Special Olympics now includes equestrian events.
It is not only the thrill of being up on such a wonderful animal, but the feeling of being free to go places and the sensation of motion that stimulates the bones, muscles, and organs of the body and inspires self-assurance that helps to normalize the whole body system. Hyperactive youngsters settle into the rhythm of the horse’s walk. Weak muscles gain strength and give the body balance and self-confidence and self-esteem are instilled. Joy enters their world.
If you or someone you know could benefit from Horses for Healing, please consider referring them to our program. Although the economic climate has had an impact on our clientele and much of our funding has been cut, we have strived to keep our fees as low as possible. Lessons are $35 each in a six-week session, with a break of one week in between each session. Additionally, we are offering a one session partial to full scholarship to prospective riders who might not be able to afford a complete session. Click here for a scholarship application which you may want to pass on to interested parties.
Horses contribute a tremendous benefit as a form of physical and mental therapy to aid and inspire the disabled to become enabled. There is something about the horse that is good for the inside and outside of humankind. Thank you for your time and any referrals that you consider appropriate.