Horse Learning- Giving you and your horse a gift

 

I've recently had quite a few older horsemen reach out in response after seeing some of the videos I have been posting, sharing "what" it can look like when we offer the horse time to think, search, and try. It has been the stimulus for private conversations with equine professionals worldwide as they struggle with their teaching abilities to convey (i.e. get owners to believe and commit to) the "how" to offer/give oneself permission (and the horse) time to observe, learn, experiment, try, process, grow, and evolve on their horse-learning journey.

I empathize with equine enthusiasts trying to squeeze more activities into already heavily burdened days full of responsibilities and demands.

As another year ends, I thought it appropriate to offer a gentle reminder to give yourself what I consider the kindest gift one could bestow upon you and your horse- remove all expectations, anticipations, or assumptions from anything equine-related.

During the time you can dedicate to your horse, please remember:

• "Success" does not equal the number of tasks accomplished.
• Quality does not occur from mindless/distracted/chaotic interactions.
• Do not allow unasked-for critical/judgmental boarders/barn owners/trainers' opinions to sabotage your horse time.
• It is okay to take things slowly.
• Learning to "be" mentally present and emotionally centered with the horse teaches him far more than mindless sessions.