As a passionate horse lover and someone who truly believes in the life-changing impact of horse riding, I was thrilled to be invited to attend the British Horse Society's Changing Lives Through Horses showcase at Saddlers' Hall in London on Friday, October 4th, 2024. The event was graced by BHS Vice Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, and BHS President, actor, writer, and horse owner Martin Clunes. So, here's a little recap of that inspiring day.
Devotion to Horses: The British Horse Society's Noble Cause
The British Horse Society is known as the UK's largest equestrian charity, dedicated to care and quality instruction, as well as protecting equestrian rights. Their Changing Lives through Horses educational programme is designed for children and young people with additional needs (in the broadest sense) aged 5 to 25.
For participants with special educational needs, such as those who have neurodiversity or have faced trauma or exclusion from traditional education, this is a unique opportunity to learn about horse care and riding in a safe environment with the guidance of experienced and trained coaches.
The Therapeutic Connection Between Horses and Children
Over the past years, more than 3,200 children across the UK have gone through this programme in over 130 specialised centres nationwide. The benefits are numerous, from pure relaxation and learning responsibility to gaining new skills and confidence-boosting certificates. The best part is that the programme is always adapted to the individual needs of each participant and their schedule, providing great flexibility and not putting any pressure.
How the Healing Power of Horses Helped Me through Difficult Times
I first started horseback riding during the pandemic period and instantly felt that being in the presence of such powerful, majestic animals was a true pleasure that had a profound impact on my well-being. Horses are very intuitive animals that can sense human emotions and provide great comfort, stress, and anxiety relief, as well as even alleviate depression.
Lately, equine therapy has been getting a lot of attention, and according to studies by the University of Arizona, it is believed that it can regulate the nervous system and lower blood pressure and heart rates. So, it's not just about riding horses as a form of physical exercise, but simply being in their presence, caring for them, and feeling their stable heart rhythm can have profound calming effects.
Final Thoughts
This was a special opportunity to learn more about the British Horse Society, its mission, and the life-changing impact of the Changing Lives Through Horses programme. I was truly inspired by all the stories shared by the participants at the event, and it was especially great to hear the speech by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal. And, of course, I was excited to see one of my favourite actors, Martin Clunes, in person. That was the cherry on top of a great day, a perfect blend of inspiration, admiration, and passion for horses.
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