How can horses help with mental health?
In recent years, the therapeutic and wellness benefits of interacting with horses, and other equine animals such as donkeys and mules, have gained recognition in the fields of mental health. It is wildly accepted that time spent outdoors in nature has significant impacts on overall wellness and health, and generally speaking, this is an inherent benefit of any equine activity. However, in both Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), horses offer a unique and powerful avenue for promoting self-care, personal growth, and mental wellness. So just how can equine interventions can support individuals in their journey towards improved mental health?
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) for Self-Care and Mental Wellness
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) involves structured activities with horses aimed at personal development and growth. Through hands-on experiences in a supportive environment, participants engage in groundwork exercises, grooming, and problem-solving tasks, all while building valuable life skills.
EAL provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with horses on a deeper level, fostering empathy, trust, and emotional regulation. By working alongside these perceptive animals, participants can learn to manage stress, enhance communication skills, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness. The calming presence of horses and the rhythmic nature of their movements can also promote relaxation and mindfulness, offering a welcome respite from the demands of daily life.
The Benefits of Horse Therapy and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)
Research has shown that Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), or horse therapy, can have profound benefits to mental health and well-being. Peer-reviewed studies support several key benefits associated with these interventions:
Improved Emotional Regulation: Participation in EAL and EAP has been linked to reductions in anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of mental stress (Kemp et al., 2014; Nurenberg et al., 2015).
Enhanced Social Skills: Interactions with horses can help individuals develop and improve social skills, including communication, empathy, and trust, leading to greater interpersonal connections (Schultz et al., 2017; Gabriels et al., 2015).
Increased Self-Esteem: Engaging with horses has been associated with boosts in self-esteem and self-confidence, particularly among children and adolescents (Klontz et al., 2007; Lanning et al., 2014).
Stress Reduction: Activities with horses have been shown to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, contributing to overall well-being and quality of life (Trotter et al., 2008; Pendry & Roeter, 2013).
Positive Behavior Change: Horse therapy and EAP can facilitate positive behavior change in individuals with mental health concerns, supporting trauma recovery and improved coping mechanisms (Tallon et al., 2019; Kaiser et al., 2019).
By harnessing the healing power of horses, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. Whether through EAL or EAP, these equine interventions offer a holistic approach to mental wellness, promoting healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
