Horses are our family
If you are reading this you will probably have some sort of connection with horses. Horses play a huge part in my life and I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for horses.
Interacting with horses has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Studies have also shown being around horses can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support and boost your mind, keeping us mentally strong
Whether you are helping an animal recover from an illness or feeding and caring for them etc, great satisfaction can be found in making a difference in an animal’s life. Part of the joy of working with horses is giving them a service that they cannot give themselves, so we are enriching both their lives and ours. It is proven that being around equines improves many aspects of people’s lives. Having great results for children with disabilities and autism, horses bring about a special type of stress relief and healing for young and old.
Caring for Horses
Caring for an animal companion can give us a sense of purpose and a feeling of empowerment. Since we all need to find meaning in our lives, this can help keep the blues away and reduce stress.
Socialisation is necessary for mental wellbeing so when we are around or working with horses, we are never far from making friends. There is no end to opportunities to make new friends, whether that is at the feed shop chatting about the latest riding tools and treats, or on a yard just mucking out and being around other horse riders or through business. All these chances of socialisation can keep loneliness at bay, which is vital for both mental and physical health.
Nothing beats getting to the yard to see your horse, they spot you from their field, their head shoots up, they start trotting towards you and call out to you this is true unconditional love and will instantly bring a smile to your face, reduce any stress you may be carrying from your commute, workday, or trip to the shops, and make you feel great about yourself.
During these times dopamine and serotonin, the feel-good chemicals are secreted in our brains making us feel happy and calm.
Horses are our happy place
Spending time with horses Improves self-esteem and riding a horse brings a sense of happiness because of the release of endorphins brought about by physical activity thereby lifting the mood and 
contributing to a sense of well-being. Even the simple tasks like getting all your equipment and riding aids ready and tacking them up gives you a lift.
Many feel that the emotional side of riding out-ways the physical, as it can be a great recipe for a positive mindset. It can give you a true sense of achievement and purpose all these factors can make you a much happier and more fulfilled individual.
Horse riding can provide much more than traditional physical exercise such as running, biking etc. It gives you that sense of peace and encourages you to appreciate the simple things in life. You take in your surroundings and are so much more aware when on a horse.
The buzz that you get from riding a horse can last for days, one good ride and you feel on such a high. Caring for a horse gives you a reason to get up and start your day on a positive note.
