The saying ‘There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a (hu)man’ made famous by Winston Churchill is one many of us can attest to. Interacting with horses has long been associated with numerous mental health benefits, enhancing happiness and overall well-being. Scientific studies and anecdotal evidence highlight the profound impact these animals can have on our mental state. Ahead of World Happiness Day we look at how horses impact our own wellness.
Stress Reduction
Horses help reduce stress in multiple ways. Their rhythmic movements and steady presence can have a calming effect, similar to meditation. A study by Washington State University found that children who interacted with horses for just 90 minutes a week exhibited notably reduced stress hormones compared to those who did not participate. This reduction in stress hormones can help mitigate future mental health issues by lowering cortisol levels. The act of grooming or simply being around horses can lower blood pressure and heart rate, promoting relaxation. Additionally, the bond formed with a horse can release oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of trust and well-being. Spending time outdoors in natural settings while riding or caring for a horse also contributes to stress relief by enhancing mood and reducing anxiety.
Enhanced Emotional Intelligence & Social Skills
Horses, being highly intuitive animals, can help us develop better emotional intelligence. Because horses rely heavily on non-verbal communication, interacting with them encourages us to become more aware of our body language, emotions, and subtle cues. This helps individuals enhance their ability to read and respond to the emotions of others, fostering empathy and deeper connections.
A 2014 study published in Anthrozoös, a journal specializing in human-animal interactions, found that participants engaging in equine-assisted learning programs showed significant improvements in emotional regulation, self-awareness, and empathy. This suggests that regular interaction with horses can enhance emotional intelligence, making people more adept at managing their own emotions and understanding those of others. Equine-assisted therapy has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating various psychological disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major depressive disorder.
Working with horses requires patience, clear communication, and trust-building. Riders and owners learn to regulate their own emotions to effectively communicate with their horse, which in turn improves self-awareness and impulse control. These skills can translate to improved human interactions, as we become more attuned to the needs and emotions of others in social and professional settings. Through equine-assisted therapy, participants have reported improvements in teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution skills, further enhancing their social development.
Increased Confidence & Self-Esteem
Interacting with horses has been linked to boosts in confidence and self-esteem. A 2019 concept analysis by Sharon White Lewis indicated that equine-assisted therapy outcomes include increased well-being, quality of life, trust, self-efficacy, and pleasure. Additionally, studies have shown that working with horses can enhance confidence, self-esteem, and assertiveness in teens living with depression and anxiety.
Horses help build confidence through the development of new skills, goal achievement, and overcoming challenges. Learning to ride or care for a horse requires discipline, patience, and resilience. As individuals improve their riding abilities or successfully communicate with a horse, they experience a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing their self-worth. The responsibility of caring for a horse also fosters a sense of purpose, which can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with self-doubt or low self-esteem.
A 2017 study published in The Journal of Experiential Education found that equine-assisted activities improved self-efficacy in participants, demonstrating that interacting with horses fosters a belief in one's ability to succeed. This self-efficacy translates into other areas of life, boosting confidence in both social and professional settings.
Ahead of International Happiness Day, we want to recognize the invaluable role horses play in boosting our mental well-being and happiness. Their ability to reduce stress, enhance emotional intelligence, and foster confidence makes them powerful companions. At Aloga Equestrian, we are dedicated to supporting you and your horses in the everyday, working to ensure their ultimate comfort and your peace of mind while using our blankets. Whether through structured equine-assisted therapy or everyday riding, the presence of horses enriches our lives in countless ways. We understand the impact they have on our daily emotions and it reminds us of the simple joys that come from working with these incredible animals.