The Benefits of Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy or Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) involves the use of horses to increase emotional growth and physical agility. Riders gain a better understanding of their own feelings, behaviours and patterns through the riding experience with their horse. Riders also improve balance, muscle strength and flexibility.
Riding builds confidence, improves communication and provides insight into rider’s responses to the world around them. The greatest amount of therapy in a session is achieved through non-verbal communication by the horse. The horse behaviour mirrors the emotions and behaviours of the riders around them.
Euqine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) builds skills in problem solving, work ethic, personal responsibility, teamwork, confidence, attitude, emotional growth and relationship building.
To learn more about Hippotherapy, visit the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association.
— Anne Nikon, Chief Operating Officer at WJS Canada