30/01/2026
When humans spend time with horses - especially in a calm and non-pressured way - a range of physiological changes can occur 🧠🐴
Here’s what research and clinical observation show:
🧠 Nervous system regulation
Many people experience a shift out of fight/flight and into a calmer, more regulated state
Breathing often slows and deepens
Heart Rate Variability (a marker of nervous-system flexibility) can improve
💙 Hormonal & neurochemical responses
Beneficial neuroendocrine effects have been associated with reduced anxiety and improved mood
Reduced cortisol (the primary stress hormone) has been observed in some studies
Oxytocin may increase during positive, relational interactions, supporting feelings of safety, trust and connection
🫀 Cardiovascular effects
Lower heart rate and blood pressure has been reported
These effects are associated with relaxation and parasympathetic (rest-and-restore) activation
🧘 Body awareness & regulation
Horses often encourage slower movement, grounded posture and present-moment awareness
This can enhance interoception - the ability to notice internal bodily signals
🌿 Emotional and psychological flow-on effects
Reduced anxiety and tension
Increased sense of safety and connection
Improved mood and awareness
✨ Importantly, these effects are context-dependent.
Safety, consent, relationship and attunement matter. When interactions are rushed, pressured or stressful, the nervous system can respond very differently - for both the horse and human.
This is why Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT) should always place a strong emphasis on safety, relationship, nervous-system awareness and ethical, horse-centred practice