The secret to success is building a strong foundation of trust and mutual respect. This does take time but the alternative often leads to more complex and sometimes dangerous problems down the road.
Before you begin to work with a new horse I recommend having a vet check (including teeth) and a comprehensive hoof analysis by a trimmer or farrier to rule out any physical pain that might cause behaviour changes. If you notice stiffness in your horse, acupuncture, massage therapy and/or chiropractor work can also be highly effective. If you plan to ride, be sure to have a saddle fitter professionally fit your saddle and have a professional guide you on bit or bit-less options.
I also encourage all horse enthusiasts to abide by the 25 Principles of the Compassionate Equestrian, it is vital that we treat our horses as sentinel beings with the kindness and compassion we wish to receive ourselves.
I have developed my “10 steps to Consciously Connect” method based on 25 years of working with horses and the wisdom of dozens of colleagues and mentors (most notable Linda Kohanov of Eponaquest) I have been fortunate enough to study with. I don’t adhere to any one method, I love to pick out the golden nuggets that resonate with me and partner them with my own insights to create a fluid and organic approach. There is no perfect way and there are many right approaches.
These steps include what I have found to be the most impactful and effective tools. I will work to expand the steps as part of my mandate to “facilitate compassionate and cooperative relationships” amongst all beings. Working with horses is a holistic experience. Whatever your equestrian pursuit; personal, leadership and spiritual development will always be a by-product. This is why my approach focuses on the development and growth of the human as much or more than the development of the horse.
Here is a summary of the 10 Steps to Consciously Connect:
- Tao Time – Observe your horse in harmony with nature.
- Somatic Wisdom – Learn how to access the wisdom of your body and become congruent.
- Coherence – Use the language of breath to align and communicate
- Mutual Respect – Begin to form a relationship with your horse by practising this method of connecting.
- Horse language 101 – Understand the non-verbal vocabulary of the horse and use it to begin the conversation
- Zen Master – Learn how to actively relax your horse and release tension
- Space is the Place – Change environments and create spaces of possibility.
- Initiate the Conscious Connect power dial – Learn how to use your power effectively
- Embody your goals – Learn how to activate your somatic wisdom to activate your horse.
- Set up for success – Build new challenges at home to increase confidence outside the comfort zone.
Stay tuned for video content and an online course (all offered by donation) to help you understand the 10 Steps and begin to use them with your horse. I am also currently offering private or group sessions by donation on Salt Spring Island, BC for those who wish to explore their equine relationship. For more information on why I operate by donation please visit my gifting economy blog here or read more about it on my “about” page!
It’s a friendly universe, humans and horses all have unique gifts to offer and we must all help each other to ascend as one. #unityconsciousness
