Equi-archi-Wellness retreat

Abstract

Equine assisted therapies(hippotherapy) use the movement of the horse as an intervention strategy by physiotherapists and psychologists as part of an integrated therapy program to achieve functional outcomes. Equestrian therapeutic retreats are needed to reimagine the significance of horses in our society and provide efficient ways of healing. Pakistan’s rehabilitation facilities lacks in many spheres when it comes to providing architectural infrastructure for therapeutic healing environment where the synthesis of these three co-related domains is taken for-granted in such a healing process, (1)Sensory architecture, (2)Therapy for mind/body/metaphysical state and (3)Horses-human relationship. The architectural manifestation with translated therapeutic experiences is generated through incorporating the sensory design elements such as light, color, texture, pleasant use of smell and sound etc. Which provide sensually interactive healing of the human mind. Integration of natural environments with built spaces can provide meditative spaces like Bamboo trails/Zen gardens to enlighten the soul. Inspirations from a creature (horses) with enhanced sensory traits along with architecture can help people become more focused. Lack of focus is the root cause of anxiety and depression among most university level students (User group). The project is a designed equestrian retreat in NUST manifesting therapeutic programs for enhanced healing. This methodology can re-establish the significance of horses in our society. Thesis research conducted on an institutional level (NUST) suggests interesting ways of incorporating therapeutic facilities in an integrated network of co-related programs in its context. Where student psychology and their mental health is of primary concern.