Bridging Hearts and Hooves

Bridging Hearts and Hooves ✨️Intuitive Equine Behaviorist ✨️
🐴
Digging deep to resolve behavior at its source or simply enhance your bond.
(1)

From Problems to Partnerships.
✨️Credendo Vides.✨️

28/02/2025

💎 Patience, Presence, and the Power of Adaptation 💎

Today, I was back after our initial session ,to help Scout’s family with her very 1st journey. Although she loads great we wanted a comfort blanket of a companion, but things didn’t go as expected. A small setback turned into a complete reset, and suddenly, we had to rethink everything.

Horses know. They pick up on our emotions, our urgency, our frustration. They know when today feels different from yesterday. And that’s why patience and self-control are crucial—not just in working with horses, but in supporting their humans too.

What we see is what we get. If we are anxious about the setup, the setup will crumble. If we hold our breath while asking a horse to step onto a ramp, they will hesitate or pull back. Working with horses means constantly tweaking our predator mindset—because if we don’t, they will look for ways to escape us, mentally or physically.

When the original plan fell through, I adjusted my approach. I didn’t leave it entirely to Scout to decide, but I found a way to guide her on softly and in a way that kept her relaxed. That’s what mattered most—not forcing, but making it feel right for her.

🙏I’m grateful for the chance to help Scout’s family today. And once again, I was reminded that true horsemanship isn’t about sticking to a plan—it’s about knowing when to change it.🙏

📖It’s rare in my life that I meet a horse I didn’t need to meet.And just as rare that a horse I meet doesn’t, in some wa...
27/02/2025

📖
It’s rare in my life that I meet a horse I didn’t need to meet.
And just as rare that a horse I meet doesn’t, in some way, need what I bring to the table.

Not every horse has a problem. Not every horse needs their problems addressed.

Today, I worked with Kara and her rising 4-year-old ex-racer—sweetest little thing. Talhah carries a few discomforts from his early life; even simple things like brushing and handling are still sensitive for him. But Kara’s wish is simple: to enjoy her horse, to brush him, to just be with him.

Talhah proved to be a great thinker, softening into things that initially tensed him up.
✨️And now, Kara and T can begin their journey together. I have no doubt—it’s going to be a good one.✨️
🌟Deep breath and only forward 🌟

Thank you for having us again Kara Jane Baird ❤️ 💖 💕

26/02/2025

💎Meeting Scout – A Lesson in Connection💎

Today, I had the pleasure of meeting Scout, a rising 4-year-old mare with a truly unique and special presence. Her deep need for connection made our session an incredible experience, alongside working on trailer loading.

She had some past experience, so today was all about seeing where she stood. In just under two hours—1 hour and 50 minutes, to be exact—we went from hesitation and doubt to a positive, willing response. It was a beautiful transformation, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work with another incredible soul and her caring owner.

Patience is a never-ending theme here, and Scout was a perfect reminder of why. We need the horse to load, but the horse doesn’t understand what, why, or how. Pushing them through isn’t an option—and even if it works in the moment, it will eventually unravel. Instead, we have to turn our ego off and our heart on.

Scout’s ability to listen and her desire to understand were outstanding. Most of our work was done through intention—one of the highest levels of communication. No pushing, no pulling. Just patience, softness, and a willingness to meet her where she was.

✨️What a privilege to be part of her journey! ✨️

23/02/2025

✨️Trailer Loading: Preparation & Communication✨️

A smooth loading experience starts long before you need to travel. Helping your horse feel confident with loading, driving, and unloading makes the process fair for both of you.

Today, I met Ev, the ex-racer, and his wonderful mom. Before even thinking about the trailer, I spent time with Ev in the stable—getting to know each other. He tends to stay mentally outside the stable, so asking him to load without first building trust wouldn’t have been fair.

Ev wasn’t dramatic, but he had doubts, starting the moment his mom repositioned the trailer. We worked through that first, then moved on. About 40 minutes later (though it felt longer in this lovely weather!), Ev stepped in with me Then shortly after, his trooper of a mom.

The key? Upgrading communication. Instead of pulling, we changed the forward cue to something softer and clearer. Now, Ev and his mom have the tools to make loading hassle-free.

If trailer loading is a struggle, make it routine—just like walking out for turnout. The more familiar it is, the less stressful it becomes. Every struggle is a conversation waiting to be had—improve the communication, and you’ll find the solution.

♥️Thank you for having me out—I can’t wait to see your progress!♥️

22/02/2025

They know... and I know they know.. .

❗️Out of Control—But Whose Control❓️Control is a tricky thing. We talk about it all the time—keeping a horse “under cont...
18/02/2025

❗️Out of Control—But Whose Control❓️

Control is a tricky thing. We talk about it all the time—keeping a horse “under control.” But what does that really mean? For many, control is about staying in charge, micromanaging every step, holding onto the reins (literally and figuratively). It’s human nature—we are predators, after all. But control isn’t always what we think it is.

A horse moves without your request? That’s already “out of control.” But whose control?
Theirs. Their mind, their body. Horses communicate in whispers—tiny shifts in energy, tension, balance—long before it ever reaches something we call a problem. But do we notice it? Or do we only react once it’s “really” out of control—bolting, bucking, rearing?

And here’s the real question: What are we actually trying to control? The horse? Ourselves? Our own fear of not being in charge?

It’s hard to let go, isn’t it? Bitless, ba****ck, a loose lead rope… the idea alone makes our control-wired brains panic. But here’s the thing—control isn’t a guarantee. It’s not a safety net. It’s just an illusion we cling to.

So maybe, instead of tightening our grip, we should ask ourselves—what if control wasn’t the goal at all?

⚠ This information is for personal reflection only. It is not meant to be applied in practice or shared with others as guidance.⚠️

💔 When your horse walks away....You step into the field, the stable, or even just their space—only to watch your horse s...
16/02/2025

💔 When your horse walks away....

You step into the field, the stable, or even just their space—only to watch your horse subtly (or not so subtly) create distance. Maybe they turn away as you approach, shift their weight to the opposite side, or leave entirely....

Distancing is Communication.
Horses don’t make these choices randomly. If they move away from you whenever possible, it’s not just about avoiding being caught—it’s about how they feel in your presence. Maybe they associate you with pressure, unpredictability, or expectations they don’t fully understand. Maybe they don’t see you as a source of comfort or safety.

This isn’t about blame or judgment—it’s about awareness. We may think we’re doing everything right, providing the best care and expressing love in ways that make sense to us. But for a horse, trust isn’t built through love alone—it comes from consistency and reliability.

What Can You Do?

✨️Reflect on your role. Do you always bring expectations, or do you offer moments of presence without pressure?
✨️Build reliability. Horses seek clarity and steadiness. Are you someone they feel safe being close to?

A horse that creates space isn’t rejecting you personally—they’re showing you how they feel in the relationship.
And the good news? With understanding, patience, and a shift in approach, that distance can turn into connection.

It’s not about making them stay—it’s about becoming someone they want to be with.

13/02/2025

❓️Did you know❓️

Self-awareness is about being present. We often ask our horses for attunement—expecting them to be with us, to respond, to stay connected—but how often do we truly provide that back?

Today, working with Derek and M, I was reminded of how much awareness shapes the conversation. Once I understood their relationship, everything became easier. M found comfort in Derek’s presence which i have not seen alot of before. Derek wants to listen, and M wants to be heard. That’s the perfect foundation for connection.

But awareness isn’t just about our horses—it’s about us. How we stand, breathe, move. The space we take up. The unspoken messages we send. When we start paying attention, it can feel overwhelming—like learning to ride, where suddenly every detail matters.
But whether in the saddle or on the ground, the more we tune in, the clearer everything becomes.

The best conversations happen when both sides are truly present.

✨️Proud of you boys ! ✨️

✨ A Fresh Breath of Connection ✨I’m beyond thrilled to see my clients find themselves with their horses—rediscovering fu...
10/02/2025

✨ A Fresh Breath of Connection ✨

I’m beyond thrilled to see my clients find themselves with their horses—rediscovering fun, trust, and a new energy in their relationships. Nyree and Poppy’s journey has been one of balance and understanding, and watching them grow together is truly inspiring.

When we listen, adapt, and let go of pressure, connection flourishes. This is what it’s all about!

05/02/2025

✨️It’s not about how much, but about how well.✨️

A spontaneous 10-minute session with Patch. No expectations, no plan—just an opportunity to listen.

He followed the moment I turned my back. Parked himself right where he needed to be. I hopped on, barely touched him to ask for a step towards the mounting block, then got off and did it again. And again.

What’s the point, you ask?

I got to sit on my boy today.
I got to feel how much lighter and more present he’s become.

This is the same horse who once was numb to my leg as well as to the rein work.
Now as soft as a thread, not a rope.

It wasn’t about going out riding or covering ground—it was about noticing the small shifts that change everything.

And isn’t that what connection is?
The little moments that show you just how far you've come.

🙌No matter where you are in your journey, take a second to pause and feel what’s already there. You might be surprised.🙌

02/02/2025

✨️Best Ponies, Best People ✨

What a day of growth, learning, and connection!

First, Olive—this special young girl, unique from top to bottom, gave me the chance to refine my energy work and deepen my understanding of horse worries. She had a tough session today, but oh, what a beautiful one. Every moment with her is a lesson, and I’m grateful for all she teaches me.

Then onto Nyree and Poppy, diving into their riding and exploring new tools together. And what a transformation in Poppy—from a sensitive bronc to a soft, stretched-down giraffe! Watching her and Nyree come together as one is simply amazing.

These are the moments that make it all worthwhile. Seeing horses and their humans connect on a deeper level is everything.

Ps: How perfect is this song... 😍

💥Control or Connection?✨️I’ve been scrolling through FB videos (as one does) and noticed a pattern—so many videos of pe...
01/02/2025

💥Control or Connection?✨️

I’ve been scrolling through FB videos (as one does) and noticed a pattern—so many videos of people having fun with their horses, yet almost all of them involve a struggle. Horses spooking at everyday things, pulling against the bit, rushing off before a canter, refusing to stand still… and riders just managing, pushing through, or holding on tight.

Somehow, this has become normal. We’ve accepted that fighting for control is just part of riding. But is it?

What if these moments aren’t just quirks but signs? Signs of a horse that isn’t mentally present, that is overwhelmed or unsure. A horse that needs something from us—not just stronger aids, but attention to their mind.

A truly present, connected horse doesn’t need to be pushed past things, held together, or micromanaged. Maybe instead of asking how to control them, we should be asking how to help them.

29/01/2025

While out on a walk today, i got asked why I don’t long rein Patch. He often sees us working the way we do and was curious.

For me, the answer is simple: I don’t find it necessary. The way I work allows my horse and me to communicate as clearly as if I were riding. I can feel every shift in him, and he can rely on my presence for support. That’s what matters to me.

I also prefer to be close, where I can guide and reassure my horse directly. If a horse isn’t ready to be handled up close, I believe the focus should be on building that confidence first, rather than adding distance.

✨️Every method has its place, but my priority is connection, clarity, and mutual understanding—and this approach works best for us.

Hope you enjoy our little, big progress video ♥️

Today on my drive, I saw a horse standing all alone in a giant field. It’s not the first time I’ve noticed him there, an...
28/01/2025

Today on my drive, I saw a horse standing all alone in a giant field. It’s not the first time I’ve noticed him there, and while I’m not here to judge why this specific horse is in this situation of isolation, it got me thinking.

It reminded me of a puzzling case I came across years ago, when I met someone who purposely kept their horse alone. Their reasoning? To get the horse used to being by itself and ensure the rider’s safety when leaving other horses.

But here’s the thing—horses are not solitary animals. They’re deeply social, relying on connection for emotional balance and security. While isolation may seem like it solves one issue, it often creates another. One day, that horse will meet a companion, and when that bond is challenged or removed, what we call “separation anxiety” can take over.

This doesn’t only happen to horses kept in isolation. Even those in a herd can experience it. The question is, who are they anxious about being separated from? A specific herd mate? A trusted human? Or the stability of their routine? The root is always the same—connection.

Forcing a horse to adjust through isolation or control might work in the short term, but shortcuts often backfire. True partnership with a horse comes from understanding their nature, respecting their need for connection, and building trust, not by working against their instincts.

So the next time we see behaviors like cribbing, stable anxiety, or frustration, it’s worth asking: is something missing in their connection to the world around them?

Let’s work with their nature and create relationships that are stronger, not more fragile.

27/01/2025

Come join us , one our session today! I got my Hat Cam back alive! So happy with my boy, massive progress 🙌👏

✨️Wisdom in the Moment✨️"I can't see a way through," said the boy."Can you see your next step?""Yes.""Just take that," s...
27/01/2025

✨️Wisdom in the Moment✨️

"I can't see a way through," said the boy.
"Can you see your next step?"
"Yes."
"Just take that," said the horse.

This simple yet powerful quote feels so true to me today. During my session with Olive and Patch, I was reminded that we don’t always need to have everything figured out. Sometimes, it’s about focusing on what’s right in front of us—one step, one moment, one connection at a time.

Horses are incredible teachers of patience and presence. They don’t ask for perfection or a master plan; they ask us to show up, to be honest, and to take things as they come.

Progress isn’t always a straight path. It’s the small steps—the moments of clarity, understanding, and trust—that build the way forward.

If the journey ahead feels uncertain, I encourage you to pause. Breathe. Focus on the next step. You don’t need to see the whole way through right now. You just need to trust that each small step matters.

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Videos

❓️Did you know❓️ Self-awareness is about being present. We often ask our horses for attunement—expecting them to be with us, to respond, to stay connected—but how often do we truly provide that back? Today, working with Derek and M, I was reminded of how much awareness shapes the conversation. Once I understood their relationship, everything became easier. M found comfort in Derek’s presence which i have not seen alot of before. Derek wants to listen, and M wants to be heard. That’s the perfect foundation for connection. But awareness isn’t just about our horses—it’s about us. How we stand, breathe, move. The space we take up. The unspoken messages we send. When we start paying attention, it can feel overwhelming—like learning to ride, where suddenly every detail matters. But whether in the saddle or on the ground, the more we tune in, the clearer everything becomes. The best conversations happen when both sides are truly present. ✨️Proud of you boys ! ✨️

✨️It’s not about how much, but about how well.✨️ A spontaneous 10-minute session with Patch. No expectations, no plan—just an opportunity to listen. He followed the moment I turned my back. Parked himself right where he needed to be. I hopped on, barely touched him to ask for a step towards the mounting block, then got off and did it again. And again. What’s the point, you ask? I got to sit on my boy today. I got to feel how much lighter and more present he’s become. This is the same horse who once was numb to my leg as well as to the rein work. Now as soft as a thread, not a rope. It wasn’t about going out riding or covering ground—it was about noticing the small shifts that change everything. And isn’t that what connection is? The little moments that show you just how far you've come. 🙌No matter where you are in your journey, take a second to pause and feel what’s already there. You might be surprised.🙌

✨️Best Ponies, Best People ✨ What a day of growth, learning, and connection! First, Olive—this special young girl, unique from top to bottom, gave me the chance to refine my energy work and deepen my understanding of horse worries. She had a tough session today, but oh, what a beautiful one. Every moment with her is a lesson, and I’m grateful for all she teaches me. Then onto Nyree and Poppy, diving into their riding and exploring new tools together. And what a transformation in Poppy—from a sensitive bronc to a soft, stretched-down giraffe! Watching her and Nyree come together as one is simply amazing. These are the moments that make it all worthwhile. Seeing horses and their humans connect on a deeper level is everything. Ps: How perfect is this song... 😍

KAJ Equine Another superb session with Kay Johnston , thank you again, the boys had a great time. Full of zen . 💆🧘‍♂️ #equinetherapy #equestrian #equinemassagetherapist

While out on a walk today, i got asked why I don’t long rein Patch. He often sees us working the way we do and was curious. For me, the answer is simple: I don’t find it necessary. The way I work allows my horse and me to communicate as clearly as if I were riding. I can feel every shift in him, and he can rely on my presence for support. That’s what matters to me. I also prefer to be close, where I can guide and reassure my horse directly. If a horse isn’t ready to be handled up close, I believe the focus should be on building that confidence first, rather than adding distance. ✨️Every method has its place, but my priority is connection, clarity, and mutual understanding—and this approach works best for us. Hope you enjoy our little, big progress video ♥️

Come join us , one our session today! I got my Hat Cam back alive! So happy with my boy, massive progress 🙌👏

✨️Freedom to Explore: Maverick’s Progress✨️ In earlier videos, Maverick often seemed stuck—frozen both in his mind and body. He wasn’t sure how to interact with his surroundings, which left him feeling disconnected. Fast forward to his latest session with his owner, and the change is clear: Maverick is now sniffing the ground, walking around with curiosity, and showing frequent releases. These moments may seem small, but they represent something much bigger—he’s starting to feel safe enough to explore and engage with the world around him. When horses feel frozen, it’s often because their mind is overwhelmed, and their body follows. Allowing them the freedom to interact with their environment helps them process their emotions, build confidence, and reconnect with themselves and their handlers. Maverick’s progress is a great reminder of how important it is to let horses explore rather than rushing them through. By creating space for curiosity, we foster trust, connection, and growth. Well done Derek and M 🙌👏

🌟 Progress and Healing 🌟 Today, I found myself reflecting on Patch and the incredible progress he’s made. From a horse who wouldn’t leave the stable at the sight of tack or a brush—shutting down in tension, swishing his tail, and yanking his hind end at me—to this sweet, sensitive giant I now know. Patch wasn’t introduced to the human world in a way that suited him as a sensitive boy. He used to hold so much tension, unable to process his emotions, and would bolt at the slightest unexpected movement. Now, he takes things at his own pace, communicates when he needs space and time, and trusts me to help him work through his worries. The last time we worked outside the field, was a couple of months ago, he was overwhelmed and tense. Now, he walks out with a loose neck and a mid- low head. If something worried him, he let me know. I addressed it, he processed it, and we moved forward—step by step, at his pace. This journey hasn’t been just about Patch. It’s been a healing process for me too. I’ve taken the time I needed to gain my confidence back, and I’m still growing. There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s not about pushing through or proving what I can do. It’s about what we can do together. When Patch is piling up tension two meters from the gate, it’s my signal to stop, listen, and work with him before it escalates. I want him to know he doesn’t have to hold it all in until it overflows. He can think, communicate, and trust that we’ll handle it together. This is the transformation I love seeing—not just in Patch, but in all horses. The moment they realize they can trust the other end of the rope and realize it’s a partnership, not a battle. Here’s to progress, healing, and connection—for all 🧡 Please pause for explanations and enjoy our shortish video ✨️😎✨️ ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Beautiful, 🥶 afternoon, ✨️ Had a great session with P and Merlin had good fun sniffing for 🐀 🙈 #bridgingheartsandhooves #behaviourist #coldweather #ice #winterhorses

✨️A Special Morning with the Next Generation✨️ This morning was nothing short of extraordinary! I had the privilege of working with three young girls and their adorable minis. Despite the freezing weather, they showed remarkable focus, an incredible willingness to learn, and were an absolute joy to work with. Throughout the session, we explored the basics of working with horses, emphasizing connection, patience, and understanding. The girls not only listened attentively but also applied what they learned with enthusiasm, proving that even the youngest horse lovers can build meaningful partnerships with their ponies. By the end of the session, I couldn’t help but marvel at how well-matched they are with their minis. It’s not every day you see such perfect pairs—it was truly heartwarming to witness. Moments like these remind me why I love introducing the younger generation to the world of horses. ❤️ A huge well done to these exceptional young ladies for their effort and spirit. I can’t wait to see where their journey with their ponies takes them!

Oh I do love when it starts to snow ❄️, magical! ❄️✨️❄️✨️❄️✨️❄️✨️❄️✨️ #bridgingheartsandhooves #mindfulhorsemanship #ConnectionOverControl #snowhorses #snow #horses #behaviourist

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