Growing•Healing•Transforming
Our 501(c)(3) non-profit offers adaptive riding and equine-assisted learning to individuals with special needs and those on a personal growth journey, fostering empowerment within a supportive community. Why What We Do Works
Adaptive riding is a powerful tool that can transform lives by promoting growth, healing, and well-being in a holistic and engaging way. The
Science Behind the Work:
Immersion in Nature: Riding through the farm's outdoor environment, participants will be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. Tactile Stimulation: The physical act of riding a horse provides wonderful tactile input. Feeling the horse's movements, the saddle, and the reins can be incredibly soothing and organizing for the sensory system. Vestibular Input: As the horse walks, trots, and navigates the trail, the rider will experience gentle rocking and swaying motions. This vestibular stimulation can have a therapeutic effect, improving balance, coordination, and body awareness. Proprioceptive Feedback: The weight and resistance of the horse helps provide deep pressure input, which can be calming and regulating for individuals with sensory processing differences. This proprioceptive feedback enhances body awareness and motor planning. Multisensory Integration: By engaging multiple senses simultaneously - sight, sound, touch, movement - the Sensory Trail experience encourages the brain to integrate sensory information in a harmonious way. This can improve sensory modulation and overall sensory processing. The opportunity to bond with the horse and explore the farm's natural environment in a structured, supportive setting is sure to be incredibly beneficial for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with various disabilities and challenges. Key Benefits:
Physical Benefits
Improved Balance and Coordination: Riding a horse requires maintaining balance and coordinating movements, which can enhance overall physical stability and motor skills. Strengthened Muscles: The act of riding helps to tone and strengthen muscles, particularly in the core, legs, and arms. Enhanced Flexibility: Adaptive riding promotes stretching and increased flexibility through the various movements required to ride and control the horse. Improved Posture: Maintaining proper riding form encourages better posture and alignment of the spine. Sensory Integration: The movement of the horse provides sensory input that can help improve sensory processing and integration. Emotional and Psychological Benefits
Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem: Successfully riding and controlling a horse can boost confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment. Reduced Anxiety and Stress: The rhythmic motion of riding and the bond formed with the horse can have a calming effect, reducing anxiety and stress levels. Enhanced Emotional Regulation: Interacting with horses can help individuals learn to manage their emotions and develop coping strategies. Sense of Independence: Adaptive riding fosters a sense of independence and self-reliance as riders learn new skills and take on responsibilities. Social Benefits
Improved Communication Skills: Interacting with instructors, volunteers, and other riders can enhance verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Social Interaction: Riding sessions often involve group activities, providing opportunities for socialization and building friendships. Teamwork and Cooperation: Riders learn to work as a team with their horse and the people around them, fostering collaboration and cooperation. Sense of Community: Being part of an adaptive riding program creates a supportive community where individuals and their families can connect and share experiences. Cognitive Benefits
Enhanced Focus and Concentration: Riding requires attention to the horse, the environment, and instructions, improving overall focus and concentration. Problem-Solving Skills: Riders often need to think critically and make quick decisions, which can enhance cognitive functioning and problem-solving abilities. Learning New Skills: Adaptive riding introduces new challenges and skills, promoting continuous learning and cognitive development. Therapeutic Benefits
Emotional Healing: The bond between horse and rider can be therapeutic, providing emotional support and comfort. Motivation for Rehabilitation: The enjoyable and engaging nature of riding can motivate individuals to participate in other forms of therapy and rehabilitation. Personalized Therapeutic Goals: Adaptive riding programs can be tailored to meet individual therapeutic goals, providing a customized approach to therapy. Overall Well-Being
Enhanced Quality of Life: The combined physical, emotional, social, and cognitive benefits contribute to an overall improved quality of life for participants. Joy and Enjoyment: The experience of riding and bonding with a horse brings joy, fun, and a sense of adventure to participants' lives. Join us for an enriching experience where your child can connect with our gentle horses and explore the farm’s natural surroundings. Our structured, supportive setting promotes both physical and emotional development, making it incredibly beneficial for all.
