Do you know what veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, inmates with emotional issues, and teenagers dealing with clinical levels of anxiety all have in common? They all respond more positively to equine therapy than antidepressants.
It’s true: horses sometimes make the best doctors and therapists.
We point this out because even though there are dozens of reasons to come visit a Colorado dude ranch – including the scenery, fun, and amenities – we regularly hear repeat guests say they find the four-legged friends they meet are calm and relaxing. Even if you’ve never been around horses before, you may just discover they are the best part of your trip.
Whether you’re getting over emotional pain, a sense of loss, or simply the everyday stress and burnout, a little bit of unofficial equine therapy might be just what you need. If you haven’t experienced this in the past, you might be wondering how it can be so positive. Here are a few of the details the experts point to…
Horses Form Bonds and Relationships With People
Maybe it’s because we’ve been breeding horses and working alongside them for thousands of years, but equines and humans are natural partners. Guests can see this for themselves by the way they develop a quick rapport with certain horses. Often, they have the sense of having been chosen by the animal rather than it being the other way around.
Working With a Horse Teaches You Responsibility and Assertiveness
Horses are big, powerful animals. They can be intimidating at first. You’ll quickly learn from riding them, however, that they expect you to take the lead. They’ll trust you to send them in the right direction and let you make decisions for both sets of bodies. That’s a great way to learn about responsibility and taking control, especially for kids and those who are looking for solid footing in their own lives.
As with canines, horses can recognize many aspects of human communication. They can understand many words, decipher facial and physical cues, and even read into a person’s tone of voice. That doesn’t just make them better companions, but also more receptive to changes in emotional state. If you talk to a horse in a calm, soothing way they’ll reflect the same qualities back to you.
Our Horses are Naturally Calm, Patient, and Friendly
It goes without saying that each horse has its own temperament and personality. At our Colorado dude ranches, we only pair guests with the friendliest and most patient equines. We’ll also ensure you know how to work with the horse you’re riding, so there aren’t any unnecessary missteps. That way, everyone can have a fun and positive experience that ends with positive memories for all.
Riding and caring for horses isn’t just fun, it can also be great for your emotional state. There’s a reason more and more counselors are getting involved in equine therapy and riding as a way of dealing with pain and stress. Horses can improve our moods in a way medications can’t.
Why not see just how great it is to be around horses for yourself! Contact us today to speak with one of our booking specialists and plan a Colorado dude ranch vacation that gives you the perfect mix of fun, adventure, and relaxation today! 1-866-942-3472
