Equine therapy, also known as Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT), is a treatment that involves activities with on and around horses in order to promote physical, occupational, and/or emotional growth. Far beyond the physical benefits, the emotional interaction with horses can help people build confidence, communication, trust, social skills, and perspective on a variety of levels. Studies have shown that this type of therapy has been especially helpful in persons suffering from ADD, Anxiety, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Dementia, Depression, and many other health related conditions. From a physical therapy standpoint, riding horses can provide immediate results in the areas of increased circulation, strength, balance, and mobility. Horseback riding requires the use of the rider’s core muscles, such as the obliques and abdominals, as well as upper and lower body muscles as the rider learns to direct the horse and practice proper riding posture. For anyone looking to improve their physical strength, balance and mobility, who is not a fan of treadmills and barbells, they just may find equine therapy a perfect match.
Hive Therapy is excited to partner with Jay Lane here in St. George and his Whispering Trails Riding Center. Although Jay prefers to be called a facilitator rather than a therapist, he is certified with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) to assist people with equine activities and therapies. According Jay, the horses do most of the hard work. Jay works with people of all ages interested in exploring the benefits of equine therapy. He has decades of experience and a passion for helping others through his horses.
Contact Jay at Whispering Trails Riding Center
(435) 705-4285
Available by appointment Weekdays 8 AM – 5 PM and Saturday’s 8 AM to Noon. Jay can meet you here at Hive Therapy for a consultation during these hours or meet you at his riding center stables on Riverside Drive.