10/09/2024
"Why is the horses hoof not completely flat like my other shod/barefoot horse?"
A question I have been asked many times. The hoof has been trimmed flat or level to receive a flat shoe for many, many years. So why change what we do now?
Change occurs because it is forced upon us, or when we choose to change. I have come to realise that most humans change when not doing so becomes extremely uncomfortable. Fewer humans change because they choose to. I resonate with seeking a healthier, more abundant life, and this requires a more PRO-Active approach to embracing the need to change... and a 'growth mindset'....
The natural healthy hoof develops an internal arch which is mirrored in the healthy outer capsule. When unloaded, the domestic horses hoof, if allowed to restore and repair, might appear more arched than fully loaded, depending on the morphology and therefore hoof health score, size of the animal, moisture content, and metabolic health of the horse. This has been my observation and understanding to date.
I was originally taught to trim the hoof capsule completely flat to the detriment to the horse, in my opinion. I questioned the method I was invested in, and I evolved my knowledge and understanding, using my perspective as both body worker and podiatrist.
I combined this with a life long dedicated practice of integrating all my senses and connectivity to all that is, seeking to know, embrace and transform my own core wounds, and receiving higher wisdom, and this helped me integrate new information, and practice it safely within my vocation. As a result, I am able to achieve far more in terms of equine rehab, mentorship and the creation of educational material. When trimming and working therapeutically with horses (which I naturally do while trimming) I now leave what is needed for the horse to feel as safe and comfortable as possible and assist in the removal or transformation of whatever is hindering optimum balance and posture, with optimum nervous and circulatory system function in mind.
If one is in a healthy 'growth mindset', one naturally seeks information and facilitate embodiment by allowing the questions and answers to flow without resistance. This leads to wisdom, connectiveness and an abundant life...
The naturally, well developed curved hoof can absorb abrasive and bumpy surfaces, absorb shock better, leading to a smoother ride with less resistance. It utilises the energy stored for greater and more efficient functionality, fostering balance, longevity and well-being...
Can you say the same about you? 💚
Ask yourself, are you flexible or unyielding, can you bend or will you break under pressure? Do you leak energy? Are you balanced and centred? Are you 'well' and can you recognise this in your own body? What might we all learn from horses and what might they be mirroring in us?
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