Past Article:

Steps to Relaxation

To truly get the best from your equine partner, it is important to understand both his/her mind and body. You work with, not against their natural instincts. If you want a safe positive relationship with your equine friend, you have to spend time getting to know him/her. Over time you learn the subtle language of communication. When a suitable program is designed, taking into account the horse’s individual mind AND the structure and movement you have more success. Without relaxation, there will not be a good connection between you and your horse.

Relaxation can be broken down into four building bricks:
THE RIDER’S MENTAL RELAXATION
THE RIDER’S PHYSICAL RELAXATION
THE HORSE’S MENTAL RELAXATION
THE HORSE’S PHYSICAL RELAXATION
 

The Rider's Mental Relaxation

People ride for many reasons: A desire to bond with a horse. The physical challenges of riding. To provide a form of transport to see the country. To be in a competitive environment list YOUR reasons for riding. Five things to help you mentally relax:

• Compete at a lower level than the level you are schooling at home.

• Ride with other people whom you trust to be supportive.

• Play relaxing music en route to the barn, around your horse, or when you are riding.

• Visualize yourself riding well.

• Breathe evenly and deeply.

WHEN YOU MENTALLY RELAX YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PHYSICALLY RELAX...

The Rider's Physical Relaxation

Riding is not a strength sport. Five things to help you physically relax:

• Do some breathing exercises

• Do some stretching exercise

• Practice with less impulsion

• Ride a horse with less movement

• Ride for short periods of time

IF THE RIDER IS MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY RELAXED, THEY ARE ABLE TO HELP THE HORSE TO MENTALLY RELAX...

 
The Horse's Mental Relaxation

What makes a relaxed horse?

• A well managed barn.

• Understanding the horse’s mind

• The horse is a herd animal.

• They are creatures of flight.

• They have a pecking order.

IF THE HORSE PHYSICALLY RELAXES, HE CAN THEN MENTALLY RELAX.
 

The Horse's Physical Relaxation

Signs of relaxation - body language

• In the barn

• In the field

• When ridden
   

Follow a clear program to develop your own ability to ride and your horse’s understanding by working through the steps of training; relaxation, rhythm contact, suppleness and flexibility, straightness, impulsion, collection.

Relaxation is the first step!