Your problems are none of your horses business...
We’ve all had those days where life piles on stress, frustration, sadness, even excitement and then we head to the stables. But here's a truth bomb that might change the way you approach your horse time:
Your problems are not your horse’s responsibility.
As humans, we carry our emotional baggage everywhere we go. But when we show up in front of our horses, we need to recognize that they are incredibly sensitive beings. They pick up on our moods, our energy, our tension and yes, even our drama. That means if you show up moody, short-tempered, or distracted, your horse notices.
Horses Mirror Us — For Better or Worse
You may have heard the phrase, “your horse is your mirror.” But do you truly understand what that means?
Horses reflect the energy we bring to them. If you’re regularly bringing negativity into the barn, don’t be surprised if your horse starts avoiding you, shutting down, or acting up. Even something as seemingly minor as slamming a bucket or yelling at a light switch can shift the vibe in your horse’s world.
That reflection might come as avoidance, tension, resistance or in some cases, complete shutdown. Worse still, over time, they can become desensitized to your presence, and that's heartbreaking.
The Over-Caregiver Trap
There's another side to this: the over-caregiver. If you constantly look for something wrong like a tiny scratch, a slight limp, a "maybe he’s tired today" moment - it could be that you're unintentionally using your horse to validate things that do not need to be there.
Some people unknowingly seek excuses not to train or engage, turning minor issues into major ones. This pattern isn’t about the horse, it’s a reflection of what's going on inside the human. Horses are resilient, capable creatures. Over-nurturing can limit their own ability to develop physical and emotional strength.
When Strength Becomes a Barrier
Some people bring a different kind of baggage, one wrapped in intensity. If you're physically strong, emotionally guarded, or quick to control, your horse will react accordingly. They may become braced, shut down, or confused.
Often, this kind of strength comes from self-protection. And while confidence is a great asset in horsemanship, constant tension is not. Your horse deserves clarity, softness, and presence, not someone who is emotionally elsewhere or unknowingly projecting their strength and stress.
Train Your Mindset, Not Just Your Horse
Of course, life happens. Grief, loss, trauma - we can't control everything. But when you step into the stable, try to be aware. Don’t let your brain use horse time as a dumping ground and instead, allow it to be your reset button.
Horses are powerful teachers. If we approach them with awareness and intention, they can help us become more present, more balanced, and more grateful.
Every Moment With Your Horse is a Privilege
Remember, just being near horses is a gift. If you’re lucky enough to own, ride, or even visit with them, you're already rich in ways that really do matter.
So protect that space.
Let your horse time be sacred.
Be mindful, be present, and bring the best version of yourself to the barn.
Ready to Bring More Positivity to Your Horsemanship?
🌐 Learn with me at getgoodwithhorsescourses.com
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And remember, if you're ever stuck, unsure, or just need clarity, reach out. I'm here to help.
Thanks for reading and as always, keep getting good with horses. 🐴
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