About Us

New Day Equine Therapy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit therapeutic horseback riding program located in Ashland, Virginia, dedicated to providing therapeutic and educational programs for patients, survivors and families. Our goal is to provide an atmosphere to focus on mind, body and spirit.

New Day Equine Therapy offers a variety of individualized programs for men, women and children. Bruce Nachman, Certified PATH Instructor, brings over 40 years of professional experience in the horse industry to this program.

The program

The equine-based therapeutic program is grounded in research that demonstrates the positive effects of interactions with horses.  We create a personal experience for each student with the goal of improving overall wellness: mind, body, and spirit. 

Bruce develops the lesson plan based on the individual’s needs and comfort level.  The therapeutic experience starts with ground-based interaction with the horses and ponies and can progress as a student shows interest for more involvement, all the way to regular mounted lessons in the ring.

This program is for children and adults of all ages.

https://www.nbc12.com/2019/08/21/non-profit-ashland-offers-therapeutic-horseback-riding-cancer-patients-survivors/

About Bruce

Bruce has been in the horse industry for more than 40 years, a natural progression from his love of horses that began in childhood.

Bruce began taking riding lessons at age 7 and showed hunters and jumpers throughout his childhood. This became a passion, so starting in college he rode professionally and taught riders of all ages. His students includes some who have been with him for more than 20 years, and children of students who are following in their parents’ footsteps.

Through the years, Bruce has also taught clinics, designed courses for hunter trials, and judged local horse shows. He manages his own barn and is involved in all facets of riding, training, and horse care.

Why PATH* Certification?

After a family member lost her battle with cancer, Bruce asked himself, “What can I do to help?” After much thought and research, he decided to combine his love of horses with his desire to help those dealing with cancer. New Day Equine Therapy was started with the goal of improving the quality of life for those in the fight, and the family and caregivers that support.

Bruce earned his PATH certification after extensive training and teaching, so that he can provide equine-based therapeutic experiences for those dealing with cognitive, physical, and emotional difficulties.