A student recently asked me, βIf horses can feel everything I feel, how do I keep them from feeling my nerves when I go to shows?β I was thrilled to have the opportunity to teach them about emotional regulation, especially in a way that benefits both rider and horse.
Itβs not about pushing emotions away but learning to accept and regulate them, especially through breathing. After our lesson, we practiced breathing exercises, and I showed them how powerful calm, intentional breaths can be for both themselves and their horses.
Afterward, I asked them what they noticed. They shared that the horsesβ heads lowered, their eyes softened, and there were signs of relaxation like yawning and releases. The students said they, too, felt calmer and more connected with their horses.
I feel so blessed to share this knowledge with the next generation in the horse industry.
Horses come with responsibility, and itβs our duty as horse owners to care for them before we even think about riding. Horses arenβt just about riding; we must prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being first. Everyone says, "It must be so fun to work with horses every day." It can be, but itβs also hard work, and itβs not always easy. Horses come with dirty work and big responsibilities, but I do it because I love these horses, I love the relationships Iβve built with them, and I cherish the people who have come into my life because of them. Thatβs why Iβm willing to go out every day and do the dirty work.
π Prioritize YOU: The Key to Thriving in a Crazy World πIn the whirlwind of life, especially as a small business owner in the horse industry, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the endless demands.But here's the truth: Self-care is not a luxury, it's a necessity.Guilt is a liar. Leaving your horses or stepping away from work doesnβt make you less dedicated; it makes you human.You canβt pour from an empty cup.If you donβt recharge, you canβt give your best to your business or your horses.Hereβs what Iβve learned:Slow down: Life isnβt a race. Take moments to breathe, reflect, and rest.Nourish yourself: Whether itβs a walk, a good book, or simply some quiet timeβfeed your soul.Embrace balance: Your horses and your business need you at your best, and that starts with YOU.Remember, when you take care of yourself first, everything else will take care of itself. Show up as the best version of youβbecause thatβs what your business and your horses deserve. π΄π
π Jolene and Hannah: A New Challenge! π
We're introducing Jolene to the world of jumping! π
Teaching a horse to jump is all about partnership and understanding. It's not just about the height of the obstacles but about building trust and challenging both horse and rider in a way that respects their unique bond.
Hannah and Jolene are taking it one step at a time, focusing on communication and mutual growth. We're so proud of how far they've come and can't wait to see where this new adventure takes them!
#railtrailstables #awequineservices #horsetraining #equestrianjourney #partnershipinmotion
Yoga and Gigong
π Thank you to everyone who joined us for yoga and qigong with the horses! π§ββοΈπ΄ It was such a peaceful way to connect with nature and the horses. πΏβ¨ A special thanks to Paul and Halina at Ordinary Pioneer
for facilitating today's wonderful session. πβ€οΈ
#YogaWithHorses #Qigong #NatureConnection #Mindfulness #OrdinaryPioneer #PeacefulMoments #Thankful
π§οΈβ¨ Rain or Shine, We Ride! β¨π§οΈ
This young rider shows us that a little rain can't stop us! Riding lessons with just a bareback pad not only improve balance and skills but also deepen the bond with our horses. And it's a perfect way to cool off on hot days! π§π
Join us for a lesson and feel the joy of riding in any weather!
#equestrianlife#ridingintherain #barebackriding #HorseLovers #motivation #rainorshine #cooloff #improveskills
Grateful to the parents who let their daughters embrace being horse girls. It's more than a passion; it's a journey that teaches resilience, grace, grit, strength, and so much more. π΄β¨ #horsegirllife #empowerment