Horse Sense

What does the horse sense? This can be experienced just by walking out into the pasture and observing how the horse responds to you.

A couple days ago, I went out into the pasture to get my horse. I had been thinking about his sore back and what kind of warm-up we should do to help relax those muscles. I had this whole thing planned out. He took one look at me a walked away.

Why?

I am a serious planner. I do not waiver from the plan, and I am like a dog with a bone when it’s time to implement the plan. This level of intensity is not appreciated by my thoroughbred, who has his own intensity, which needs no additional fuel. He sees me coming, senses this huge plan and feels immediately overwhelmed with my expectations. He would rather graze and hang out with his buddies.

Horses sense our energy and intentions. When we can step back and just be in the moment with no specific intention, we create space for the horse.

On the next visit to the pasture, I decided to just hang out with my horse. He came right up to me, put his head down for a rub and then just stood next to me for a few minutes. As I started back to the barn, he walked along with me. I imagine my space and energy felt safe and inviting.

S. Potts

Beezer, Scyther and Belle grazing on a sunny winter afternoon.