EquiFriends - fostering emotional and social growth
Horseback riding does more than stimulate the senses and develop the body. The natural therapeutic experience and sense of achievement fostered by equestrian activities contributes to the emotional and social growth of the rider.
While improving and positively promoting posture, balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, self-awareness, confidence, concentration and independence, therapeutic equestrian activities stimulate muscle, brain and social activity in people who are challenged with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities.
The emotional benefits to the riders include:
- Independence and increased self-esteem
- Greater self-control
- Greater self-awareness and self-confidence
Riders also reap social benefits, including:
- Making new friends, both human and animal
- Improving social interaction and cooperation
- Improving attention spans and listerning skills
Whether emotionally and socially or physically and cognitively, horseback riders grow with the natural therapy of a horse's gait.