Horse Skills & Tips : Breath and Tension

 Tips for Resetting your Breathing and Releasing Tension at the Halt

Without realizing it, many riders hold their breath quite frequently when interacting with or riding the horse.

This unintentional simple act creates continuous containment of the horse due to the rigidity the human then carries in their body causing constant chaotic, miscommunication with the horse.

As we say, "The horse mirrors the human." The intentional act of learning to control one's breathing creates a release of rigidity in our muscles. This release is usually immediately mimicked in the horse's behavior and can be seen in displays such as him sighing, chewing, dropping his head, rapid blinking, passing manure, and an overall deflation of tension from his posture.

Here are a few tips to help you check-in with your own potential patterns and learn to create a safe space for your horse to learn in.

*Every time you halt- whether on the ground or from the saddle- conscientiously exhale.

*After you halt and exhale, assess your fingers for any Unintentional gripping creating a brace in you that will be mimicked by the horse.

*After you halt and exhale, notice if your toes are grounded in your boot, or scrunched up, creating a "gripping" and jockeying-up of your leg.

*As you prepare to halt- give yourself and the horse a 3-2-1 countdown to gradually decrease your energy as you soften (vs holding) your breath when you are communicating for the horse to transition into the halt.

*If coming to a potentially concerning area around the farm/trail/arena, talk (literally outloud) your horse through what you will/are asking of him. Notice if your words are rushed or if you sound short of breath. Adjust your energy and thoughts until your voice sounds like the way you would when speak or inviting a friend to something. (I'm not kidding- for decades I've watched people's emotions and energy change when they have an invitational feel vs are in a reactive anticipative state.)

*When you mount, the moment you are pushing off the ground or mounting block, be looking towards something up and ahead and talk outloud as to what you're looking at (something in line with your horse's head but about 5-10' higher than his ears). This will keep you centered and balanced without holding your breath creating tension when you seat yourself.

* When you mount, after seated, count out loud to three before you search for your second stirrup. Too many people have a mental urgency, creating physical tension, and increased energy as they literally hold their breath when trying to rapidly gather their second stirrup.