“Understanding When to Dismount During a Horse’s Spook”

Many equestrians face the dilemma of whether to stay mounted or dismount when their horse becomes frightened or spooks. It’s a situation where conflicting advice is often given, with some suggesting that remaining mounted shows leadership, while others believe that dismounting can be the wiser choice. Let’s delve into this and shed light on a perspective that prioritizes safety and the well-being of both rider and horse.

Firstly, it’s essential to clarify that a horse’s reaction to a scary situation is not a battle; it’s a response to fear. Horses, like humans, can get frightened or anxious, and their spooking is a natural instinct to perceived threats. So, when faced with a spook, it’s crucial to understand that the horse isn’t attempting to challenge the rider’s authority but is genuinely afraid.

The decision to stay mounted or dismount during a spook depends on various factors. Remaining on the horse while effectively calming it down can indeed exhibit strong leadership and confidence, which reassures the horse. However, here’s an alternative perspective:

If both the horse and rider are feeling overwhelmed by fear and are unable to manage the situation while mounted, dismounting might be a prudent decision. By doing so, the rider can step away from a potentially dangerous situation and take charge from a safer vantage point.

It’s important to note that stepping down isn’t about conceding to the horse or giving in to fear. Instead, it’s a strategic move to ensure safety and regain composure. Once on the ground, the rider can focus on calming the horse, regaining confidence, and then resume control with a clearer mindset.

Being a leader isn’t about bravely staying mounted despite overwhelming fear. True leadership involves making decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of both horse and rider.

In the end, every situation is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What’s crucial is recognizing the limits of one’s abilities in a tense moment and making decisions that prioritize safety and a positive outcome for both horse and rider.

Remember, it’s not about who “wins” or “loses” in this scenario, but about fostering a relationship of trust and understanding between the rider and the horse.

Why Our Brain Warns Us About Things We Want to Do – Unveiling the Fear of Riding

Introduction: In our journey as equestrians and coaches, we often encounter a peculiar phenomenon – the fear of riding. It’s a perplexing paradox: why does our brain sound the alarm bells when we’re about to engage in an activity we love so dearly? In this post, we’ll delve into the psychology behind this warning and explore how to overcome it.

1. The Ancient Brain’s Role: Our brains have evolved to prioritize our safety and survival. In ancient times, quick decisions meant the difference between life and death. This primal instinct, while immensely valuable in the past, can sometimes create unnecessary fear in modern scenarios. Riding a horse, although generally safe, can trigger these primitive warning signals.
2. Fear of the Unknown: Riding, especially for anxious equestrians, often involves stepping into the unknown. New horses, unfamiliar environments, or challenging maneuvers can make our brains cautious. It’s essential to acknowledge this fear, understand it, and work with it rather than against it.
3. The Power of Visualization: One effective technique to conquer the fear of riding is visualization. As a coach, you’re well aware of the importance of mental preparation. Encourage your students to visualize themselves confidently and safely riding. This not only eases anxiety but also enhances performance.
4. Gradual Exposure: Gradual exposure to fear-inducing situations is another key strategy. Just as you build a connection with a horse, building trust within ourselves is crucial. Start with small, manageable challenges and progressively increase the difficulty. This approach helps to reprogram the brain’s warning system.
5. The Role of Hypnotherapy and Self-Development: Your experience in hypnotherapy and self-development can be a valuable asset in addressing the fear of riding. These techniques can help individuals uncover the root causes of their fears and provide effective strategies to overcome them.
6. Community Support: Don’t underestimate the power of a supportive equestrian community. Your Facebook groups and membership groups, like “Horse and Health” and “Happy Horse Hub,” offer a safe space for equestrians to share their fears, seek advice, and receive encouragement. Building a supportive community can be a powerful antidote to the fear of riding.

Conclusion: In the world of equestrian coaching, understanding the brain’s warning signals is crucial to helping anxious riders get back on their horses. By acknowledging the role of our ancient brains, practicing visualization, and gradually exposing ourselves to fear-inducing situations, we can conquer the fear of riding. Your experience and expertise, combined with these insights, can make a significant difference in the lives of many equestrians.

Investing in horse knowledge is a wise financial strategy. Many horse owners find themselves facing problems and challenges that can be costly to resolve if they lack sufficient knowledge. By understanding your horse better and being equipped with the right knowledge, you can not only save money but also ensure that your horse remains healthy and happy.

It’s important to realize that, like all living beings, horses can experience various health issues. By learning about horse anatomy, nutritional needs, and their daily care requirements, you can prevent many common problems. You can also identify signs of health issues early and take action before they become serious, saving you both time and money.

Furthermore, knowledge of horse behavior and communication can help you build a strong and trusting relationship with your horse. When you understand what your horse is trying to tell you, you can address behavioral challenges or fears in a way that is gentle and effective.

So, invest in your horse’s well-being and your wallet by increasing your knowledge about horses. It’s a win-win for both you and your four-legged friend.

You will get a lot of knowledge for very little money in Happy Horse Hub!

Happy Horse Hub!

Get well in your mind with horses!

That horses are the path to better mental health is something we’ve always known.

How calming is it to just be with a horse, in the stable, in the stall, or in the pasture? They have a unique ability to help us reduce stress and clear our minds.

Today, horses are even used as ‘therapists’ who can guide our thoughts in the right direction.

Someone who uses horses in therapy is Frannie Chara. Listen to this podcast where she explains how it works.”

In today’s fast-paced world, finding solace and healing can come from unexpected sources. For centuries, horses have played a significant role in human history, not only as companions and transportation but also as therapeutic partners. In this blog post, we’ll explore how equine therapy benefits individuals dealing with anxiety and stress while shedding light on how it provides a newfound sense of appreciation for older horses.

The Healing Bond: Horses have an innate ability to connect with humans on a deep emotional level. This unique bond between humans and horses has paved the way for equine-assisted therapy. By working with these majestic animals, individuals experiencing anxiety and emotional challenges can find a safe space to heal.

Equine therapy sessions often involve various activities with horses, such as grooming, riding, or simply spending time together in a natural setting. The presence of these gentle giants helps alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and emotional well-being.

Older Horses Find Purpose: One of the remarkable aspects of equine therapy is the positive impact it has on older horses. As horses age, they may no longer be used for traditional riding or competitive purposes. However, equine therapy gives these aging horses a new lease on life.

In therapy sessions, older horses become valuable partners, offering their wisdom, patience, and calming presence. They show participants that age is no barrier to making a meaningful connection. For these equine seniors, it’s a chance to feel appreciated and valued once again.

Conclusion: Equine therapy is a testament to the incredible healing power of horses. It not only helps individuals cope with anxiety and stress but also grants older horses an opportunity to continue serving and being cherished. The bond formed between humans and horses in these therapy sessions is a testament to the enduring connection between our two species, reminding us that healing can come from the most unexpected places.

Please listen to my interview with Ana VidMar who use her horses in therapi:

Noll intresse för ekonomi!

Jag har nyligen gjort en undersökning i gruppen om vad folk gärna vill höra om! De ville höra om allt annat än ekonomi…..

Där var en del roliga inslag om att man alltid hade råd med en vojlock till och hästen fick alltid hö och en själv fick nudlar:)

Det förvånar mig verkligen, då jag tycks höra hela tiden: Jag har inte råd!!

Är det då något som du gärna skulle vilja, tex åka på tävling, ta lektioner, vara med i min medlemskapsgrupp, men inte har råd, tycker jag ju personligen att man kanske skulle se över ekonomin lite.

Inte så att hästen eller du lider, men jag tror att många hästägare lägger ut en förfärdelig mäng av pengar på vissa saker som kanske inte är så nödvändiga. Kan man då få över lite till något av det man gärna vill, så tycker jag det skulle vara drivkraft nog:)

Lyssna här på min podcast, där vi har en debatt om försäkringar och hur man kanske kan spara en del där!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1xHWH90RkdoKqZObH3t19i…

Do you have a heart for horses?

Well I think so if you have a horse or just like them. I have had a heart for horses since I was a little girl and I have no idea where it comes from. My parents were not interested in horses, while my whole life has been horses! Job, hobby, free time, everything. One who also has a heart for horses and who, even though she has given up a lot in her life to be with the horses, is Marina Parris. Listen to this podcast where she talks about her life with horses.

No wonder I wanted to start collaborating with her and we have created a fantastic membership group where we intend to teach people about the horse’s needs and communication with them.

I have interviewed many fantastic horse people, so please subscribe to my podcast, so I have the opportunity to continue this work, to support horse people who work for the good of the horse.

Riding a horse can be an enjoyable experience, but it is important to prioritize safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when riding a horse:

1. Wear appropriate safety gear: Always wear a properly fitted helmet that meets safety standards, as well as sturdy boots with a heel and close-fitting clothes.
2. Get to know your horse: Spend some time with your horse before riding to get to know its temperament and behavior. This will help you anticipate any potential issues while riding.
3. Check your equipment: Before you mount the horse, make sure that the saddle, stirrups, reins, and other equipment are properly adjusted and secure.
4. Start slowly: If you’re new to riding, start with a slow and gentle ride to get used to the horse’s movements and gain confidence.
5. Maintain control: Keep your horse under control at all times, and be prepared to use your reins and voice commands to steer the horse.
6. Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings, and keep an eye out for other riders, animals, or obstacles in your path.
7. Stay alert: Be alert and attentive while riding, and don’t let distractions like music or conversations distract you from your horse.
8. Practice good riding posture: Maintain good posture while riding, and use your core muscles to stabilize your body.
9. Stay hydrated: Bring water with you and drink regularly to prevent dehydration, especially on hot days.
10. Know your limits: Don’t take on more than you can handle, and always listen to your body. If you start to feel uncomfortable or tired, take a break or stop riding altogether.

Now we are almost in the month of December.

The cold starts to set in and in some places it gets muddy, slippery and dirty.

It’s hard to keep your spirits up in these dark times, so that’s why Christmas was invented.

It’s fantastic to see all the Christmas trees in the gardens and lights in all the windows. It gives us a little coziness and anticipation.

While we had the farm in Sweden, we have for many years had a Christmas market and Lucia train. It also creates an expectation. It’s fun and you meet a lot of people.

Arranging a Lucia train does not require much, so anyone can arrange it. You just have to have the will and make up your mind. Then you have to contact a few people who want to join and most of them show up, if nothing else to watch.

It is about doing things in winter that bring expectations and joy. It doesn’t have to be perfect but can give reason to practice new things, for example riding in the dark.

Everything has to be practiced and you can get a lot of pleasure out of it later, because anyway, it’s easier to pull yourself together and get it done if you have a nice event to look forward to. You can also practice riding with one hand and train the horse to wear a riding blanket. If you have a purpose and a goal, training becomes fun.

I have also driven Lucia with my horses and then you can have a few in the carriage. It’s always fun to have the family with you and there can also be a little baskets with fluff buns and hot chocolate.

Being with other horses and people creates community and that is what we all need.

Today I thought I’d go over some facts about leather.
Several people have asked me how to know that it is quality or not.
It is not always so easy to see through if you have not worked with it, and even for an expert it can sometimes be difficult to determine straight away. There are so many synthetics out there today and very well made, so it can even be hard to tell if it is actually genuine leather or leather.
Why does it have to be real leather then, if synthetic is just as nice and good?
Genuine leather and leather is still much more durable than synthetic and leather and leather “breathes” so it is much more comfortable to wear whether it is bridle saddle or gloves. If you have, for example, a synthetic saddle, you should know that you can get very hot in the bottom if you ride a lot. The synthetic is synthetic and in my opinion you should not use it either for yourself or for your horse. Yes, but don’t you think about the poor animals that have to die, just because you want real skin and leather? No, the animals are slaughtered anyway because people want something to eat. I personally think it’s better to use the skins instead of going to waste.
How can you then determine whether it is quality or not?
A safe bet is to choose English or Swedish leather, you can never go wrong there.
What is it due to?
First of all, the animals were raised in a harsher climate, with a lot of rain and snow, and therefore from birth have a more durable solid skin to protect themselves. If you take, for example, a buffalo hide, which many believe is a sign of quality (advertised), it has lived a life in warmer climates and therefore has both thinner skin and porosity to be able to sweat and ventilate the body.
If you buy, for example, a bridle or a saddle from India, you can be sure that the leather is dry and it is simply not possible to lubricate it smoothly. It will crack and break in no time. It can be difficult to see the difference when you have so much you can paint on and make it look “real”, but if you are used to it, you will feel it right away. You should feel it. If it is flexible and smooth, it is almost certainly good quality.
You can also see and notice it in the price, because compare a saddle from India and from England, and the English one probably costs twice as much.
It is better to buy good used than new and cheap!
A lot can also depend on the tanning, and they are very good at that in Sweden and England.
So ask in your store what the country of origin is for the goods, then you have at least taken a step on the way.