Shelley's favourite occupation is horse riding

In OT week, your OTs are sharing their favourite occupations outside of work. This is Shelley's......

Horse riding is more than a pastime for me—From the moment I first rode a horse, I was captivated by the sense of freedom, trust, and connection that riding brings. Horse riding is more than a sport or leisure activity; it's an opportunity to establish a unique bond with an incredible animal. Riding allows me to immerse myself in nature, encourages me to stay present, and brings balance—both physically and mentally, it’s a way to find balance, connection, and purpose. Horses are highly perceptive, mirroring our emotions and movements, which has taught me to stay grounded and focused.

This love for riding evolved into something even more rewarding when I began using hippotherapy to help children. Hippotherapy uses the natural movement of a horse to support physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

When a child rides, the movement of the horse naturally mirrors the three-dimensional human gait, creating sensory inputs that mimic walking. These rhythmic movements encourage balance, coordination, and postural control. Through this approach, children can develop fundamental skills that improve their ability to navigate the world around them. It’s remarkable to witness children gaining confidence and strength through the simple, natural movements of a horse.

Hippotherapy is more than just riding; it’s a structured therapeutic approach that is deeply engaging and inherently enjoyable for children. The combination of physical movement, emotional connection, and the tactile experience of interacting with a horse allows children to focus on themselves without the pressure often felt in traditional therapy sessions. For some children, the horse itself becomes a trusted friend, helping them develop social and communication skills that are essential for daily life.

The horse’s rhythmic movements help improve postural control, sequencing, visual attention, motor skills and more. Engaging with a horse also nurtures confidence and emotional regulation, empowering children to build independence and resilience.

Watching these children grow and gain new skills while connecting with the horses is deeply fulfilling. Through hippotherapy, I’ve seen first-hand the transformative power that horses can bring to children. This combination of passion and purpose has made horse riding a truly fulfilling occupation in my life.