Both she and colleague David Bates say riding and equine therapies especially seem to help patients with mobility problems, including those who use wheelchairs. "Riding gives them back their independence," Van Buren said. "Instead of being forced to look up at people they can sit tall and look straight ahead. It's a very empowering feeling to be on a horse." Speech therapy would appear to be at odds with horse-related activities, but Van Buren explained why studies have shown it can help everyone from autistic children to military veterans. "Such individuals are often highly sensitive to noise and adverse to touch," she said. "Through consistent, rhythmic movements, riding and equine therapies help to organize their central nervous systems and cause their head, neck and trunk to gently move and strengthen." In order for novice riders to experience such benefits, the researchers say it helps to have professional help, since proper seating position is key. A non-aggressive approach also is needed, "letting the horse's movements move your body," Hakanson said. As for the horses in the parade, they too have been receiving special stress-reduction instruction. Lynn Rasch, coach and choreographer of the Equestriennes, who will be appearing in the parade, said normally 250,000 guests attend a presidential inaugural parade. "They're expecting over two million spectators for the Barack Obama parade," Rasch said. Van Buren believes this important moment in American history is appropriately observed with horses, given their long-standing contribution to the nation's heritage. She said, "When you see horses in a team, especially really beautiful ones that have been well groomed and cared for, it makes your spirit sing and gives you goosebumps." Related Links: |
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