The history of Equine Assisted Therapy goes back as far as the ancient Greeks, where physician Hippocrates wrote about the therapeutic potential of horseback riding. Therapy riding then became more integrated in the 50s and 60s. 

Even if we are not seeking this as an actual therapy in a qualified centre, horses can give us some amazing support outside of the actual sport of horse riding. We find ourselves spending just that little bit longer in the yard, grooming or feeding the horse when there are things on our minds or we are not feeling great, I am sure every equestrian can relate to that. But why is that? 

Being in the presence of a horse can offer a sense of peace and calm.

There is no judgment in relation to our behaviour or emotions. A horse can act as a mirror and will react depending on the way we display movements or emotions; this teaches us self-awareness and forces us to be aware of and control our emotions. 

I am certain we all experienced this when getting angry in the saddle and receiving certain feedback from our horse.

Horses display a safe space where many people, equestrians and non-equestrians, can allow themselves to feel vulnerable. In therapy, horses can be used as a reference tool to discuss memories or difficult experiences and help with working through them.

As we all know, horses require work and the simple responsibility of feeding, watering, grooming and exercising, which can be very therapeutic, it helps to establish structure and a sense of reason to be. And then there are the little achievements we get from being around them, which will boost your confidence and self-worth. 

The feeling you get when coming out of the show ring a foot taller, after everything you trained so hard for is finally coming together, or just the first time your rescue horse is letting you touch them.

It is amazing to see the positive changes in people when being around horses. And there are some amazing programs out there where people can avail of Equine Assistant Therapy.

I am currently finding myself in a situation where I am stretching out my morning and evening duties in the stable, and I find that I return calmer and more relaxed to the house.

We are so privileged to be around these amazing animals, who teach us so much about ourselves along the way.