Talking to Horses

BeGood | Mar 18, 2010 |

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Want to know the most important aspect of the equestrian and horses relationship? It boils down to one simple word: communication.

That's right, communication. If rider and horse aren't able to send and deliver messages to one another – especially the right messages – than they're both going to end up awfully unhappy. It might not be the worst sort of unhappiness – the equivalent of being thrown in the ring or having your horse go barging into traffic instead of keeping to the breakdown lane.

But it's going to be a ride both you and your horse will wish had never happened. There's a direct relationship between the discontent of the rider and the discontent of the horse.

So what can equestrians and horses do to avoid this unhappy outcome?

Take a look at that first word again. Communication. You can communicate with your horse.

This can sound confusing or daunting at first but in truth you've been doing it all your life. Think about it. What's the heart and soul of your relationship with your wife or husband? Or your children? Or your parents? Or heck, even your best friend?

Communication!

It's no different with horses. You have to be clear with yourself about what it is you want and then you have to be clear with them about it. Horses are intelligent animals but their primary means of communication isn't vocal. They don't pull you aside and say, "Hey buddy. I've got a few concerns about how you're handling the reins."

And we don't pin our ears back when we're frightened or distressed!

But talking to horses matters. Your horse is reading your energy all the time. They can "feel" your fear and your tension – and they can just as easily "feel" your happiness and patience. They know when you're calm and centered and they know when you're frazzled.

They prefer you calm and centered.

So when approaching your horse, take a deep breath. Talk in low, reassuring tones. Let your eyes be deep and loving. When you climb into the saddle, don't immediately order the horse to start moving. Just settle in. Get comfortable. Let them have a moment or two to get comfortable with you. It's almost a law of riding – the closer and safer you feel with your horse, the closer and safer they're going to feel with you.

As you ride, be aware of the tone of your voice. Check your body's tension – release it with deep breaths. Keep a light touch on your reins. Horses are highly sensitive and don't need a lot of direction. A little can go an awfully long way with horses.

Animal communication matters. In a nutshell, you want to focus on sending them positive messages. You're the boss, but you want them to know that you feel a deep respect for their power and grace. You want the horse to remember that the two of you are in this thing together. And you do that by communicating!