Hippotherapy is much more than just interaction with horses. It is a carefully designed therapeutic process that combines the connection with these noble animals with specific activities to promote physical, emotional and spiritual healing Kambo practitioner training. In this article, I will take you through each stage of a typical hippotherapy session, from beginning to closing, so you can fully understand how this healing journey unfolds.
- Introduction and Initial Evaluation:
Each hippotherapy session begins with a warm welcome from the therapeutic team. During this stage, an initial assessment can be conducted to understand the patient’s needs, goals, and challenges. This helps the therapist personalize the session and select the most appropriate activities.
- Connection with the Horse:
Once the bond has been established between the patient and the therapeutic team, it is time to connect with the horse. The therapist and patient approach the horse, caress it and establish a relationship of trust. This moment is crucial to establishing an emotional connection and ensuring that the patient feels comfortable with the animal.
- Therapeutic Activities:
Specific activities vary depending on the patient’s needs and session objectives. They may include riding the horse, performing balance exercises, interactive games with the horse, coordination exercises, and more. These activities are designed to address areas of physical, cognitive and emotional development.
- Observation and Feedback:
During the activities, the therapist closely observes the patient’s reactions and emotions. Feedback is constant, and the therapist guides the patient through the exercises, providing support and encouraging confidence. The relationship with the horse is used as a mirror to explore emotions and behaviors.
- Integration and Reflection:
At the end of the activities, time is provided for reflection. The patient and therapist discuss what was accomplished during the session, how the patient felt, and what lessons can be applied in everyday life. This stage helps connect therapeutic experiences with daily life and encourages self-reflection.
- Closing and Farewell:
The hippotherapy session ends with a fond farewell between the patient and the horse. The bond built during the session is reinforced and the patient’s effort and participation is praised. The therapeutic team may provide homework or exercises to practice between sessions.
- Monitoring and Future Planning:
After the session, the therapeutic team can record the patient’s progress and observations. Future sessions are planned, considering the evolution of therapeutic needs and objectives.
Hippotherapy is a transformative process that takes place in a safe and collaborative environment. Each stage is designed to guide the patient toward healing and growth. If you are considering hippotherapy as a therapeutic option, don’t hesitate to explore further and discover how this unique experience can contribute to your overall well-being.