Working with the horses has helped me…gain more confidence in my actions and feel surer of myself. I experience PTSD, insomnia, and ups and downs with depression and anxiety…I’ve tried many other forms of therapy, and this has been so effective so far, unique and unlike anything else I’ve tried. Working with the horses and instructors has re-opened some areas I’ve suppressed recently, and I know this will be such a benefit to my mental health in the long run, as it is crucial to address those things if you want to heal. I’ll definitely be recommending the program to other Veterans! The program team, the instructors, have also been incredible. You can tell that they really care about our experiences.
This program really makes you leave all your own issues at the gate. You have to focus on your horse and kind of being “one” with him. He can tell when your mind is elsewhere. Learning all things horsemanship is such a wonderful experience. I feel like I’ve already learned SO much and cannot wait to continue! This has truly been a blessing.
Paige is 7 years old with low muscle tone but we've noticed a huge improvement in her posture and core strength since she started riding last October. Paige's favorite part of riding are the Volunteers. They ease her anxiety at the beginning of each lesson. The Volunteers are truly special with hearts of gold. We like to arrive about 20 minutes earlier than our lesson starts to meet them. They always interact warmly with her, show interest in her and immediately gain her trust. I can't imagine her lessons without them. As soon as they show her that they care, her confidence shines and she's ready to ride! We feel so blessed to have found this program and are extremely thankful to the Camacho Family, the Volunteers and Staff who make this program so special.
Norah has been riding with SoléAna Stables since the beginning and we feel very blessed to be a part of this great organization. Over the years, we have seen Norah improve in subtle incremental ways. For example, Norah has always struggled with opposites, left/right, inside/outside him/her, etc. Therapeutic horse riding has helped Norah have a stronger grasp on those concepts. This translates into personal care skills like putting her shoes on the correct way and with her speech and communication with her family and others. We want to send our heartfelt thanks to SoléAna Stables, the teachers and countless Volunteers who make this all possible for our daughter.
On Saturdays, we ride! Powers can’t wait to put on his cowboy boots and head to the barn. On the way there, we talk about who he thinks he’s going to ride that day. Biscuit is his favorite response right now! Powers loves riding, and we love watching him. Since starting at SoléAna Stables, Powers has shown increased independence and focus. He has had the opportunity to participate in HLSR Top Hands Horse Show. The pride and happiness on his face as he received his trophies was palpable. SoléAna Stables as an organization has made us feel like we are a part of a family. A family that is supportive and accepting. We look forward to many more days at the Barn!
