- Encourages Emotional Regulation – Horses are highly attuned to human emotions, helping individuals become more aware of their own feelings.
- Helps with Trauma & PTSD – including PTSD from the cancer discovery and treatments.
- Boosts Confidence & Self-Esteem – Successfully guiding and interacting with a large animal fosters a sense of achievement.
- Reduces Stress & Anxiety – Interacting with horses has a calming effect and can lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels.
- Improves Focus & Attention – Especially beneficial for individuals with cognitive disorders (including side effects of chemo and “cancer brain” or “brain fog”).
- Enhances Problem-Solving & Decision-Making – Handling a horse requires strategy, patience, and adaptability.
- Promotes Mindfulness – Being with horses encourages individuals to stay present in the moment.
- Improves Motor Skills & Coordination – The movement of riding helps with balance, posture, and muscle tone.
- Enhances Core Strength – Riding strengthens core muscles, benefiting individuals with disabilities or physical injuries.
- Aids in Sensory Processing – Helps individuals with sensory processing disorders become more comfortable with touch and movement.
- Encourages Communication Skills and social anxiety.
- Builds Trust & Connection – Working with a horse fosters relationships and teamwork, useful in personal and professional growth.
studies about horse therapy
From the NFCR (National Foundation for Cancer Research):
A US published (2014) study on 20 breast cancer patients:
The conclusion was that horse therapy had positive effects on both physiologic and psychological measures, enhancing quality of life of breast cancer survivors. RESULTS suggest a new method for rehabilitation intervention strategies after cancer in a nonmedical environment
From Science Direct: Healing With Horses:
Fostering Recovery From Cancer With Horses as Therapists – ScienceDirect