If you’ve ever known the feeling of brushing a horse’s soft fur, tossing a saddle on a horse’s back, and grabbing the reins, you know the special feeling of riding or simply being around horses. A feeling like no other, but did you know there can be benefits to your mental and physical well-being?
You may have seen a horse before. Maybe in an equestrian center or a field on the side of the road. People of all ages benefit from horses. But what makes horses so special? Horses are very in tune with humans. Did you know that a horse can hear a human heartbeat from 4 feet away? Not only can they do that, in addition they can also reduce stress, boost confidence, improve balance, and even help with conditions like autism, depression, and trauma. However, does this work? Yes, horses respond to humans emotionally immediately, which makes you very aware of mindfulness, trust, and emotional control.
Horses play a major part in the healing process, both mentally and physically. According to wellpower.org, “Horses are exceptional therapy animals due to their heightened senses, particularly their awareness of non-verbal cues and energy. A horse may respond by being reluctant to work with someone who may be carrying anger or fear. A horse’s keen sense of perception allows them to respond to human emotions and intentions.” Horses are very emotionally connected to humans. They can be very hyper-sensitive to strong emotions, so it’s important to be calm and happy around horses. Some reasoning behind that is, “Both humans and horses emit electromagnetic energy from their heart, which is measurable and plays a crucial role in their interactions,” (wellpower.org).
In addition, a horse’s heart is 10 times the size of a human heart. It generates an electromagnetic field that is significantly larger. This expanded electromagnetic range can have a soothing effect on individuals, contributing to the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted programs. “It has been proven that working in close proximity to a horse can reduce our heart rate, it can reduce blood pressure, it can reduce the amount of cortisol (stress hormones), and it can also cause the feel-good endorphins to increase in us,” commented Plant. “So, by just being around horses, our moods are elevated and there is a physiological reason for that.” States wellpower.org.
Furthermore, horses are a great way to reduce stress or simply feel good from increased endorphins. When being with a horse, whether riding or simply doing ground work with them, you control the emotional environment around you. As stated in the quote, horses and humans both give off from their hearts. But horses’ hearts are ten times bigger than humans’, so their electromagnetic field from their heart is significantly larger, and can have a very calming effect on the people around them.
In conclusion, horses have a unique and powerful impact on both the mental and physical health of those surrounded by them. The information provided demonstrates that horses reduce stress, boost confidence, improve balance, and even help with conditions like autism, depression, and trauma. Equestrian care can improve responsibility and bring a surplus of confidence.