For instance, even though I have the diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia, I decided to start volunteering at a therapeutic horseback riding stable which helps children and adults with various physical and mental challenges. I love being around the horses (I grew up riding horses) and since my grandson is on the autism spectrum, he has started riding there also. It is a win-win for me and volunteering there actually gives me more energy. I may be a little tired afterward, but it is so worth it! Think about where you might like to volunteer and give it a try. Check out the article below about a recent event where we went to demonstrate the benefits of therapeutic riding.
Painted Pony hosts Fun Day Sunday
painted pony
Posted: Sunday, November 10, 2013 11:37 pm
MONTICELLO, Fla.-- Horses got a new look at a Monticello farm during an event called the Painted Pony Fun Day Sunday. Organizers say the true cause behind the fun was to show people how animals can help improve lives. The bond between a horse and rider can be an experience like no other. For a veteran horse named Andrew, who is now 23-years-old, and a five-year-old boy developing a unique skill. It’s a win-win situation, a new purpose for Andrew and little Granger receiving therapy in return.
“Many of the mannerisms and the stemming autistic children have stop when they get on a horse,” says Jane Springer, grandmother of Granger.
Granger was learning and demonstrating how to ride a horse in front of a crowd at the event. He lives with a growth disorder. His grandmother says he is on the high functioning end of the autism spectrum, forcing him to overcome everyday challenges.
But Springer says horses like Andrew provide therapy to help strengthen his mind and body.
"His arm muscles when he pulls the horse this way and grips with the horse, it helps his legs, it helps his arms, it helps his coordination and helps with following directions,” says Springer.
"I think that when you get on a horse, you're able to forget for a little while that there is something different in you life,” said Karen Singletary, founder Hands and Hearts for Horses.
After hopping on a horse at young age, Granger hasn't looked back since. Now he is preparing for the therapeutic Special Olympics.
“Many of the mannerisms and the stemming autistic children have stop when they get on a horse,” says Jane Springer, grandmother of Granger.
Granger was learning and demonstrating how to ride a horse in front of a crowd at the event. He lives with a growth disorder. His grandmother says he is on the high functioning end of the autism spectrum, forcing him to overcome everyday challenges.
But Springer says horses like Andrew provide therapy to help strengthen his mind and body.
"His arm muscles when he pulls the horse this way and grips with the horse, it helps his legs, it helps his arms, it helps his coordination and helps with following directions,” says Springer.
"I think that when you get on a horse, you're able to forget for a little while that there is something different in you life,” said Karen Singletary, founder Hands and Hearts for Horses.
After hopping on a horse at young age, Granger hasn't looked back since. Now he is preparing for the therapeutic Special Olympics.
