If you’ve ever been around horses, you probably already know how amazing these creatures are. They’ve been our buddies for thousands of years, and today we’re still riding, working, and even healing with them. Scientists have started to notice that there’s something special going on when we’re with horses, and they’ve got the facts to prove it. So, in case you think equine therapy is basically just fun, let’s take a proper look at the neat ways our bodies change when we’re hanging out with our equine pals.
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Your Heart Says “Ahhhh”
First off, your heart rate and blood pressure will chill out when you’re around horses. This is thanks to our body’s relaxation mode, the parasympathetic nervous system. Studies have shown that being with horses can seriously mellow us out, leading to a more relaxed state and overall good vibes.
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Feeling the Love
Oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone,” helps us bond, trust, and empathize with others. Guess what? Hanging with horses can make our oxytocin levels go up! This is likely why we feel so connected and safe around our four-legged friends.
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Bye-Bye, Stress
Cortisol, the stress hormone, plays a big role in how our bodies work, like managing our metabolism and immune system. When we’re with horses, our cortisol levels go down, which means we’re less stressed out. This can help lift our spirits, ease anxiety, and make us feel better overall.
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Boosting Your Immune System
Scientists have also found that being around horses can give our immune systems a helping hand. We know that sounds a bit like some nonsense of the sort used to sell kale to the unwary, but it’s true. One study showed that people who did equine-assisted therapy had higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an important antibody that keeps us healthy. So, horses might just be helping us fend off those nasty germs!
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Keep Calm and Pony On
Horses are super in tune with our emotions and body language. So, when we’re with them, we learn to be more aware of our feelings and how we’re acting. This can help us keep our emotions in check and be more mindful of how we’re feeling. Plus, it’s great for our mental health and self-awareness.
There you have it! Horses aren’t just beautiful and majestic; they’re also helping us feel better in mind, body, and spirit. Science is backing up what we’ve always known: horses are truly amazing. Whether it’s lower stress levels, feeling more connected, or even boosting our immune system, there’s no denying that horses have a unique effect on us. So, next time you’re near a horse, take a moment to appreciate the incredible bond between humans and our equine pals.
It’s also why our equine team are some of the happiest people you’ll ever meet.