Healing Rhythm - Riding Horses to Health
Service Offering
Therapeutic Horse Riding for children and teens with learning, social and/or emotional difficulties - often diagnosed with ADHD; Asperger Syndrome (AS) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); eating disorders; addictive behaviour.
Introduction
Stories about human-animal bonds or interaction have found their way into books and films time and time again. White Fang, Flicka, The Incredible Journey, Lassie, Spirit, Free Willy and so on. That animals touch us emotionally is undeniable. And we are at last beginning to give due recognition to the important role animals play in the human healing process.
All over the world there are thousands of therapy organisations bringing animals to patients, or patients to animals. Dogs, cats, potbellied pigs, tropical fish, dolphins, horses, gorillas, elephants, pigeons and more, have all either been deliberately employed to aid people in the healing process; or spontaneously acted in a benevolent, healing and sometimes lifesaving manner towards humans.
As to horses, for literally thousands of years man found ways to use horses for his benefit. When we no longer needed them to fight in wars or to work our lands, we turned to sport and recreation, to entertainment. In time we woke up to the therapeutic benefits of horse riding.
Context
Recorded evidence about the value and benefits of horse riding for people with special needs goes as far back as 1875. In earlier years these benefits were noted as improved balance, strengthened muscles, increased suppleness in joints and a marked improvement in morale. In the 1980’s specific studies conducted confirmed this.
In time the positive effects in psychosocial terms were noted and included improved self-confidence and esteem, motivation, attention span, spatial awareness, concentration, listening skills, and interest in learning and verbal skills.
Today there are many organisations across the globe offering horse riding to people experiencing learning, emotional and/or social difficulties; or with special needs. It is known by different names for different approaches or different purposes. With Hippotherapy, for example, the horse influences the rider, while with Therapeutic Riding the horse and rider may mutually influence each other. On a global scale the Riding for the Disabled organisation is probably the best known.
Healing Rhythm is about the healing process that the act of horse riding brings on a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual level.
Ilse offers equine therapy sessions for children and teens with emotional and/or learning difficulties, often diagnosed with ADHD, aspects of AS and/or ASD, eating disorders, addictions; often lack self-confidence and self-esteem and struggle with social interaction.
On a purely physical level horse riding is healing and here’s how. Because a horse’s movement is multi dimensional, the rider’s whole body is involved in the movement. At the same time riding stimulates or activates the vestibular system in the inner ear and the activation of this system helps the brain stem, cerebellum, and limbic system with sensory integration. In a nutshell, horse riding stimulates the whole body and an extremely important area in the brain which leads to better physical ability (coordination and balance), academic performance; as well as improved ability to adapt more easily both socially and emotionally.
“This type of therapy does not teach the child specifics like reading and writing but rather teaches the brain to organise itself and function better, resulting in the child reading and writing more easily.” – Engela
“For children with learning problems the riding improves the child's ability to follow instructions, listen and respond, and most importantly it improves their self-esteem. Their self-esteem improves because here they are controlling this mighty beast, so they feel that in some way they can also gain control of themselves.” – Megan
"Horse riding is a major achievement for anyone, so even more so for a child that has been told so many times that there is something "wrong". They feel a sense of independence and pride which comes from learning a new skill." – Laura
“The child becomes more instinctive in day to day activities, as they have to be when riding a horse; they also seem to connect emotionally with more ease. The connection with the horse helps the child tune in to his own emotions and instincts better.” – Daniel
Ilse’s Approach & Philosophy
To be aware of goal and process and flexible enough to adapt and respond to what the individual presents in the moment. And to be brave enough to allow what needs and wants to happen, to happen. Blindly sticking to a lesson plan when an individual (horse or human) presents something else which needs addressing is futile and negates progress.
To provide a safe and loving space for each participant to experience the healing energy and rhythm of the noble horse – no judgement, no criticism, and also no nonsense. This means setting clear boundaries, remaining unsentimental and not engaging in or reacting to any attempts to manipulate.
To be ever aware and respectful of the horse’s well-being. When horses become part of the therapy process we have to, perhaps more than ever, consider their physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Booking Information
Each participant’s situation and ability is taken into consideration. Some will have no influence over the horse to start with but this may change, others will be given responsibility from the onset, but some sessions may be dedicated to more passive experience of the horse’s movement. Some sessions may be spent out of the saddle altogether.
It is highly advisable to commit to a minimum of 8 consecutive weekly sessions to give your child the best chance to truly benefit from this therapy. Please contact Ilse for current rates, any further information or bookings.
Please supply your own safety helmet.
Feedback
"My son is a special needs child diagnosed with ADHD and aspects of Aspergers syndrome. After several agonizing therapies and months of evaluations I took him to Ilse. He had no belief in himself or his ability to do anything. Ilse worked with him and through her extraordinary gift and resonant wisdom, his muscle tone improved visibly. More importantly, his aggression, frustration and sense of ineptitude seemed to evaporate. Ilse has a truly profound gift." - Barbara
"While I was still a teenager Ilse opened my eyes to the world of horses. I personally experienced her wisdom and unique touch in sessions with her and her horses. I wouldn't have my deep appreciation and understanding of horses if it weren't for Ilse." - Kendra
