powerful impact a horse can have on a human. To most horse owners, riding is a soothing and remedial experience, but to disabled individuals, it can be a life changing form of therapy. One out of five Americans are born or develop a disability in his or her lifetime, many of which are incurable. Currently, there are over 56 million physically or mental disabled living in the U.S. alone (United States Census Bureau 1). Therapeutic riding differs from other forms of therapy because it connects emotionally
The Journey to Understanding Several years ago, when I was around 10 years old, I started on one of the most impactful experiences of my life; volunteering at a non-profit therapeutic horseback riding center. The Farm, as everyone called it, was a truly magical place where everyone was welcomed and respected. There was something incredibly serene about the Farm, lush green pastures full of beautiful horses, peaceful wooded trails to take the riders through; complete with colorful and creative
My first venture in physical therapy came at the Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding in San Juan Capistrano. The Shea Center specializes in Hippotherapy – physical, occupational, and speech therapy while the patient was on horseback. My role during the internship was mostly observational, I walked beside the patient as the therapist conducted the lesson. Nevertheless, I learned that physical therapy is a field where one can find a niche, be creative, and curate care for patients. Moreover, I was exposed