Open Space Ranch -- Better Living Through Horses

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Parent Category: Travel Info

Category: Travel Feature

Published on Saturday, 25 June 2011 15:21

Written by Laura Blum

If you've visited Israel, you've done the big wows from the Wailing Wall and Safad to the ancient fortress of Megiddo. Now find inspiration just horsing around. The Open Space Ranch in Kfar Shmuel offers therapeutic horseback riding for people with emotional or physical challenges, and rivals the holiest sites for sparking awe.

Founded by a veterinarian who served in Israel's elite Matkal unit, the ranch is especially known for its miracles with autistic children. But adults also come in for the Open Space treatment, from the shell shocked to the terrorist attacked. Dr. Ofer Komrovski's horse cure -- a mix of riding and tending animals in nature -- has also made great strides among children with ADHD, cerebral palsy, retardation and behavioral problems.

Youth at risk are yet another Open Space charge. Where others see barnyard animals and a dusty corral, Dr. Komrovski envisions the means for integrating people from diverse backgrounds. It began more than a decade ago, when he invited underprivileged kids of Ethiopian descent from nearby Kiriyat Yearim Youth Village to come ride horses on his farm, free of charge. Their parents initially balked. No longer. Now many of their sons and daughters are riding-therapy instructors at Open Space, having earned certification at the reputable Wingate Institute.

Dr. Komrovski's main magic pill involves connecting with a horse. People of all ages learn how to listen to the horse and to overcome their fear through movement. Riding gives them physical and spiritual empowerment.

Open Space's big push for personal, community and social change carries echoes of moshav (co-operative village) ideology. Here, though, developing independence and cooperation is doctor's orders.

Make a pilgrimage to this rehabilitation ranch near Ramla in Central Israel, and watch four-legged beasts perform wonders. Meanwhile, have a peek at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7hN2ZonxQw

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