What is mindful horsemanship?
Mindful horsemanship is the practice of paying attention and being aware of what we ask of the horse. The more we learn about our self and the horse the more aware we can be.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness means purposely being aware and paying attention to what you are doing in the moment.
When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we are sensing in the present moment rather than repeating the past or imagining the future.
Horses, ponies, donkeys and mule live in the now, time spent with them encourages us to be in the moment and focus on our connection with these incredible animals.
As you and your equine begin to create a peaceful connection with one another, you can communicate more clearly and without fear. You will discover that you are able to show more patience and fully listen to the horse’s needs once you discovered the power of living in the moment.
By being mindful of the horse’s thoughts and feelings as well as your own in the moments of interaction, when you are in the present with the horse, allows you to create a harmonious bond and strengthen your partnership.
This special connection allows horse and human to benefit for time spent together. The practice of mindfulness deepens our understanding of self and the horse, opening the capacity to make a positive difference in his world as well as your own.
Self awareness
Self-awareness involves being aware of different aspects of the self-including traits, behaviours, and feelings. It is a psychological state in which oneself becomes the focus of attention.
Equine behaviour offers us information. Sadly many do not want to know what the horse is thinking or feeling especially when it does not suit them. It is easier just to label the horse as having a problem than ask ourselves why.
Sometimes we need to change our thinking and become more responsible and aware of our actions and thoughts to better our partnership with the horse. To understand equine behaviour and motivation, we need to look at ourselves. We need to take responsibility for our own behaviour and expectations.
Benefits of practicing mindful horsemanship
- The care we provide and the methods of training we use can transform our relationships with equines. This can open the door to a deep meaningful connection. The more we learn about our equine partner and the things we ask of him the deeper we can connect.
- As pressure and expectations are lifted you will begin to discover a deep love for your equine partner as an individual being, creating more positive, relaxing, and pleasant experiences for both of you.
- The practice of mindful horsemanship is the foundation to building a solid connection with the horse. By being mindful of what we ask and how we care for our equines we can build relationships with meaning and deep connection, based on trust and understanding.
How do you practice mindful horsemanship?
- Discover your true self. Explore your values and motivation in relation to your partnership with the horse.
- Think about your actions from the horse’s perspective so that every interaction can benefit both human and equine.
- Learn as much as you can about how you are training your horse. The equipment you use and the choices you make when caring for your horse. The more knowledge you have the more mindful you can be when making decisions.
- Understand the individual equines needs, behaviours and how he learns. Look closer at how you meet those needs and where you can make changes to better your partnership.
- Learn the 5 freedoms and consider how you provide these in line with your individual values.
