We strive to provide children and adults living with physical and mental limitations, a safe, enjoyable and growth experience.
Whispering Horse Therapeutic Riding Center is a community oriented, non profit organization, located at 253 Hampden Road in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts.
At Whispering Horse trained professionals, accompanied by volunteers, assist individuals with disabilities to achieve their independence through a variety of therapeutic goals, such as, cognitive, emotional, educational, socially, and behavioral.
Methods that utilize the strength of the horse's body with a variety of integrated therapeutic methods, have proven to be one of the most progressive forms of therapy for individuals with disabilities. These elements combined with the love, compassion and friendships shared between the horse and rider, fosters the perfect healing environment where nothing less than miracles can happen.
The mysteries surrounding these miracles is far too great for words to describe. They must be witnessed first hand and felt with the heart.
Whispering Horse wishes to thank their patrons for their generous contributions, continuous love and ongoing support.
Individuals on horseback, assisted by trained professionals and volunteers riders' enjoy a variety of games and activities designed for horseback which motivate the rider and provide opportunities of meeting physical, cognitive, behavioral and psychological goals. Riders will spend the majority of time on the horse; grooming and stable management skills are also incorporated when appropriate. See Benefits of Therapeutic and Hippotherapy.
The term Hippotherapy derived from the greek word, "hippos" meaning horse; in conjunction with the word therapy, meaning "treatment of a physical, mental or behavioral problem" Hippotherapy, differentiates from therapeutic riding whereas in therapeutic riding, specific riding and stable skills are taught. In hippotherapy the focus is geared towards the treatment. See Benefits of Therapeutic and Hippotherapy.
Physical - The movement of the horse has a dynamic effect on the body of the rider. The horse stimulates the rider's pelvis and trunk in a manner which closely resembles the normal gait of a human. This movement can be used to produce specific physical changes in the rider including, normalization of muscle tone, postural stability, improvement in balance and strength.
Sensory - Therapeutic Riding can address a variety of sensory integration issues. A smooth-gaited horse with a consistent pace provides establishment of rhythm. A faster paced horse provides increased stimulation to proprioceptive and vestibular receptors in the body, assisting with overall organization.
Emotional - Successfully overcoming fear and anxiety increases a rider's self esteem. A bond develops between the rider, volunteers, horse and staff and is an integral component of a positive emotional experience.
Cognitive - The horse provides riders with motivation to incorporate many new educational goals into their riding activities such as letter recognition and sequencing of tasks.
Social - Therapeutic Riding encourages individuals to interact with peers in a fun and challenging group activity.
