When Two Hearts Align: How Horses Improve Mental Health
Explore the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding and animal-assisted therapy, as this article reveals how interacting with horses can reduce stress, enhance emotional well-being, and nurture a sense of purpose.
When Two Hearts Align: How Horses Improve Mental Health
Date: September 3
Author: Kurdt Allan (as told by Katie Bandish)
The Therapeutic Power of Horseback Riding: Enhancing Physical and Mental Well-being
As we approached a private paved driveway surrounded by luscious green pastures, a participant pointed out something more majestic standing in those fields: horses. I had the opportunity to weave horse therapy into my journey as a Certified Peer Specialist. Having ridden horses for over 20 years, I shared how therapeutic they are for our physical and mental health.
“Horses have been a profound part of my journey to recovery. The way they mirror our emotions helped me be more self-aware and helped me navigate through my darkest times and find my way back to mental wellness after my suicide attempt in 2020.”
Horseback riding offers a range of therapeutic benefits for physical and mental health. Interacting with horses has a calming effect and can significantly reduce stress levels. Caring for an animal provides a sense of purpose and focus, diverting attention from daily stressors (Verywell Mind).
I introduced our participant, Courtney, to the barn’s trainer, Amanda, who was thrilled to help educate them about horses. We discussed how horses mirror our heartbeat and emotions, highlighting the importance of being in tune with oneself. When we brought out a gentle 6-year-old mare, the smile that exploded from our participant's face said it all: she was in love.
A significant aspect of horseback riding begins with education. I presented a box of brushes and explained each one’s purpose. Just as a soft brush gently smooths out a horse’s coat, practicing mindfulness can help smooth out the wrinkles in your day-to-day stress.
Additionally, we discussed horse body language. For example, when a horse pins its ears flat back, it means the horse is angry. When relaxed, a horse will lower its head, lick, and take a deep sigh. Horses have complex emotions, just like you and me!
During horse therapy, participants are able to graze and walk the horse around in the indoor ring using a lead rope. Grazing allows horses to eat grass freely outdoors, and a lead rope—attached to the halter on a horse’s face—allows you to guide them gently.
“This was the highlight of my week,” Courtney, with a bright beaming smile, expressed. “I mean, I was still counting, but it wasn’t as bad, and I didn’t get stuck at all!”
What she said confirmed what we know to be true: Horses are therapeutic for mental wellness. Courtney’s symptoms weren’t as prevalent while she focused on the horse and learned about interacting with it. “Being around horses made me feel safe, and I felt like I had a purpose in being there,” Courtney said.
Not only did being with the horse help with Courtney’s symptoms, but she was also flourishing socially while interacting with other riders at the barn—another area Courtney typically struggles with.
Studies show that equine therapy can improve one’s social and emotional skills, potentially because empathy and trust play crucial roles in the unique relationship between the participant and horse.
Animals have repeatedly proven effective in many types of recovery, which is why it is crucial for animal therapy to be included in peer support services.
Katie Bandish has been working as a Certified Peer Specialist at Mental Health Partnerships’ PeerNet Bucks for over two years, providing services to lower and central Bucks.
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