Horses Ease Pain and Promote Well-being: New Study
A recent study has revealed that interacting with horses can significantly reduce the perception of acute pain in participants. This discovery adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic benefits of equine-assisted activities.
The 'OverPonyMotricita' project in Italy is one such initiative, helping preserve functional motor independence and improve quality of life for people over 65 through horse interaction. This project, along with others like 'A Cavallo verso il Futuro' for young offenders and 'POP - Pony & Oncology Pediatric' for children with oncological pathologies, underscores the social role of horses and ponies in promoting well-being, as recognized by the Italian Equestrian Sports Federation.
Researchers, such as Katja König von Borstel, have shown that heart rate variability (HRV) synchronizes between humans and horses during interaction. This bidirectional synchronization of heartbeats, published in the journal iScience in 2024, suggests a profound physiological connection. Biofeedback from contact with horses can regulate heart rate and promote relaxation, influencing human physiological parameters positively.
The therapeutic benefits of horse interaction are becoming increasingly clear. From reducing pain perception to improving motor independence and aiding in the treatment of oncological pathologies, horses are proving to be valuable allies in healthcare. The synchronization of heart rates and the promotion of relaxation through equine-assisted activities highlight the potential of these interactions to improve well-being and quality of life.
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