The Benefits of Equine-Assisted Therapy For People With PTSD
Did you realize that nearly 4 percent of American adults suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Often times, people with PTSD suffer from intense bouts of panic and even disturbing thoughts. If you are one of the thousands of PTSD sufferers, you know all too well how hard it can be to shake these feelings. This is why engaging in activity that can take your mind off of the trauma you have experienced is a must.
While there are a number of different therapies used for people with PTSD, equine-assisted therapy is one of the most effective. The key to having a great experience with a horse is allowing seasoned professionals to help you out. Read below to find out more about the benefits of equine-assisted therapy for people with PTSD.
Learning How to Handle Anxiety
Perhaps the most common and debilitating ailment people with PTSD have is extreme anxiety. This anxiety can surface for a number of different reasons. Without the right tools and mindset, you will struggle to control your anxiety. If you feel yourself spiraling out of control with anxiety, equine-assisted therapy may be a viable option to fix these issues.
The interactions with a horse will be based solely on their actions and how they react to you. This means you can focus solely on the horse instead of getting caught up in your own thoughts. Getting a break from the trauma of the past is one of the main reasons why so many PTSD sufferers choose equine-assisted therapy.
A Great Tool For Emotional Development
Often times, people who have PTSD are a bit withdrawn and have a hard time maintaining relationships with friends and family members. Feeling like you are emotionally regressing is not a good place to be, which is why finding a way to cope with this issue is something you need to focus on. If you are looking for a way to build a relationship that is based solely on trust and respect, then equine-assisted therapy is a great option.
By taking care of a horse over a period of time, you will start to develop a relationship with this animal. For years, people have used relationships with animals of all kinds to get the love and loyalty they want in their life. Working with a knowledgeable professional is the only way to ensure you get a great horse-riding experience during your therapy.
A Great Way to Get Some Exercise
When trying to focus on something besides their anxiety, PTSD sufferers will often exercise. If you are tired of hitting the gym to get in your daily dose of physical activity, then equine-assisted therapy may be a great fit for your needs. When riding a horse, you will have to focus on keeping your muscles tightened and your balance right. This means you will feel like you have had a workout once the ride is over.
Looking For a Great Place to Ride?
In the Bay area minutes from San Francisco, there is a wonderful coastal horse facility named Ocean View Stables. Now that you know more about the benefits of riding a horse, it is time to take action. With the help of the team at Ocean View Stables, you can have a great riding experience.