"At first it sounded somewhat “preppy” or “privileged”, but now I see it as a natural extension of my own body. It is a mission and a challenge in life.
Let the horse's body carry you, and the movement doesn't stop - it will take you to your destination.
Like everyone else, the first time I mounted a horse I was hesitant, but as I gained experience I began really to enjoy the riding, which enabled me to fly even when my legs could not. On horseback, I use muscles that I cannot work in any other way (like those for keeping my posture), and it provides a combination of other things such as navigation skills, rhythm skills, and paying attention to the rules of safety.
I will conclude with the following thought: When I come to ride, I am figuratively and literally 'back in the saddle' again."
Nir Shefer, IDF disabled veteran
I am an IDF disabled veteran who is 100% wheelchair bound. For 10 years now, I have been coming to the Israel National Therapeutic Riding Association (INTRA) every week for riding therapy. Giora Shkedi, co-founder and co-director, has always treated me like a son, given me personal attention with a great deal of support and love and shown his professional skills as well.
Since I started riding, my posture, my speech and my self-confidence have all improved. After each ride, I am able to stand on the ground and walk a few steps. This fills me with a great sense of satisfaction. In addition, the people who work at the stables and help me with my lessons also contribute to my progress and success.
I am very attached to Smokey, my horse. No matter what I am doing while riding, no matter how much I wiggle around or shake, Smokey always stands still. I feel as if he really wants to help me as well.
Many, many thanks
Tomer Alalouf
"I have been riding at INTRA for many years, and I know all the horses and the people here. I love coming to the stables. The horses are a very important part of my life and they give me a good feeling.
Unlike people, the horses never look at me strangely and they don’t care about my appearance. When I come to the stables, the first thing I do is give the horses some sugar cubes and carrots.
When I ride, I feel free and I enjoy the sea air.
After riding, I feel better in many ways. I feel more confident walking. It is easier to go up stairs, and easier to use my left hand. When I come to the stables, I see in my horse, Chicka’s eyes that she is happy and excited to see me (perhaps because she knows that I bring sugar cubes...).
On rainy days when I don’t have a lesson, I feel really sad. I am less stable, I miss everyone as I’m very attached to my instructors and I particularly miss the horses."
Kfir Levy
Therapeutic Horseback Riding: Three Personal Reflections