ABOUT US
What we do and why
“Horses and children, I often think, have a lot of the good sense there is in the world.”
– Josephine Demott Robinson
At our center we believe that Equine Assisted Services offer a pathway to healing for children and communities.
Imagine a life without full control of your muscles, a life where every step and every gesture is a challenge. Now imagine getting on a horse, feeling the warm rhythmic motion loosen your tight muscles. Imagine finally understanding that movement need not always be difficult.
At the Healing with Horses Zimbabwe Equine Assisted Centre we work with a lot of children who have cerebral palsy. CP is a weakness or lack of muscle control that originates in the brain with the result of stiffness, slowness, shakiness and difficulty in balance.
The Key To Therapeutic/Adaptive Services On Horseback
Therapeutic / Adaptive Services On Horseback
The key to therapeutic/adaptive services on horseback lies in the movement of a horse.
As a horse walks, its center of gravity shifts in three dimensions, closely resembling the movement of the human pelvis during gait.
The Movement of A Horse
The warmth of the horse in conjunction with this movement helps riders relax and teaches their muscles the rhythmical patterns of walking.
Their muscles are strengthened by increased use and the exercises stimulate coordination, concentration and memory.
Horses motivate children
Horses naturally motivate children to move, explore and touch.
This natural desire and the reciprocal interaction from a non-judgmental accepting being creates a feeling of safety, achievement, confidence and above all joy in our riders.
The therapeutic/adaptive services experienced on horseback are not just for people with CP. Children and adults living with autism, down syndrome, vision impairment, post-traumatic stress disorder, physical and emotional abuse and depression can all benefit from sustained interaction with horses.
Our Vision
Healing with Horses Zimbabwe, in partnership with Mind the Gap Africa, is a registered Zimbabwean non-profit Trust. We work free of charge with under-privileged children with disabilities, special needs, or who are in need of rehabilitation from trauma and abuse. It is our vision to provide the environment for people with disabilities and special needs to realise their self-worth and to take their place in the community with confidence, pride, and ability.
