What Is Equine Therapy?

Great Question!

Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy or horse therapy, involves interactions between individuals and horses to promote emotional, physical, and mental well-being.

Here are some examples of equine therapy activities:

1. Ground-Based Activities:
   • Grooming and Bonding: Participants groom and care for the horse, fostering a sense of responsibility and building trust between the individual and the animal.
   • Leading Exercises: Walking and leading a horse can promote confidence and communication skills.
2. Riding Sessions:
   • Therapeutic Riding: Under the guidance of a trained therapist or instructor, individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges can engage in horseback riding to improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength.
   • Vaulting: Performing gymnastic and dance movements on a moving horse can enhance flexibility and motor skills.
3. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP):
   • Talk Therapy with Horses: Participants engage in traditional therapy discussions while interacting with horses. The horse’s presence can create a calming and non-judgmental atmosphere.
4. Natural Horsemanship:
   • Building Leadership Skills: Learning to communicate with a horse using natural horsemanship techniques can teach leadership, assertiveness, and effective communication.
5. Team-Building Exercises:
   • Group Activities: Working together to accomplish tasks with horses can foster teamwork, communication, and trust within a group.
6. Sensory Integration Activities:
   • Sensory Trails: Creating trails with various textures, obstacles, and sensory elements helps individuals with sensory processing disorders improve their sensory integration.
7. Mindfulness and Relaxation:
   • Mindful Breathing Exercises: Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques while interacting with a horse can help reduce stress and anxiety.
8. Problem-Solving Challenges:
   • Obstacle Courses: Setting up obstacle courses that individuals navigate with horses can enhance problem-solving skills and build confidence.

It’s important to note that equine therapy is facilitated by trained professionals, including therapists, instructors, and equine specialists, who ensure the safety and well-being of both participants and horses. The specific activities may vary based on the goals of the therapy and the needs of the individuals involved.

MuMu is slated to become a key participant with the brand new organization called Equino Terapia SMA, located in San Miguel de Allende, in Mexico’s central highlands.