Why Therapeutic Riding?
A Physical Therapist Explains

Therapeutic riding programs are incredibly
motivating. The children are able to increase their
strength, balance, coordination body awareness, and
cognitive development through the movement
facilitated by riding. At the same time they are
having fun and feeling proud of their achievements.
The three dimensional movement a child experiences while
riding a horse actually simulates the same movement pattern
as a normal human gait pattern. For this reason,
therapeutic riding can be incredibly helpful in
assisting children to walk or improve their walking. I
have seen children involved in Soaring Spirit make
huge gains in all areas of development, because the
program is so fun and motivating.
Ann Rasmussen, Physical Therapist



A Parent's Perspective

My son, Nicolas, now age 6, has faced and still
faces many challenges due to his Autistic
Disorder and Cerebral Palsy. Before he began
therapeutic riding at age 3, he was unable to
walk. The traditional therapists that worked
with him at an adapted gymnasium had difficulty
getting Nicolas to engage in strengthening
activities. Kate Sutton and the Soaring Spirit
Therapeutic Equestrian Center were able to
provide Nicolas with strengthening exercises
without him even being aware he was working
– and he absolutely enjoyed every minute of it.
Being very sound sensitive, the quiet, serene
environment, and Kate’s gentle, reassuring
nature made Nicolas very comfortable. He
began walking before his 4th birthday, thanks, inv part to this valuable program.
Nanette Carrillo, RN

I Saw A Child I saw a child who couldn't walk, sit on a horse, laugh and talk. Then ride it through a field of daisies and yet he could not walk unaided. I saw a child, no legs below, sit on a horse, and make it go through woods of green and places he had never been to sit and stare, except from a chair.I saw a child who could only crawl mount a horse and sit up tall. Put it through degrees of paces and laugh at the wonder in our faces. I saw a child born into strife, Take up and hold the reins of life and that same child was heard to say, Thank God for showing me the way... - John Davies

Soaring Spirit is proud to be a NARHA
Center. NARHA is the national
Association which sets standards for
Equine Assisted Activity and Therapy
programs.

541- 514-6357