Bonding is not only a key way to connect with your horse but it’s a great way to learn more about how your horse behaves in different situations. However, it is crucial to keep your interactions as positive and consistent as possible, allowing your horse to trust you. This will also allow you to be a better rider as you learn all the different signals your horse relays with their body language.
There are different ways of bonding that can help you get to know your horse much better, including:
Going for walks on foot with your horse. This allows you to build a much stronger bond and trust with your horse.
Grooming your horse requires close contact that can make your horse trust and be more comfortable around you.
As with any animal, you want to talk to your horse as they learn to get to know your voice and moods.
As you spend time with them, tune into them energetically so you can sense their mood. Open yourself to them so they can read and learn your energy as well.
It can take time for both of you to become comfortable as you learn to trust each other. This is why it’s important to take it slowly, giving your horse time to adapt. The more time you spend in the stable, grooming, talking, and going out for rides with your horse, the better your connection becomes and the more your horse will trust in you. You will begin to sense when they have had enough work and they are done. Also, when they need something or sense something— either in you or others in their immediate environment. Trust your instincts around them.
Keep in mind that you want to stay clear of the following:
Don’t allow your bad days to spill over into your interactions with your horse.
Don’t push your horse too hard to bond quickly. As with friendships, they take time to foster.
Don’t rush into your riding sessions until you feel comfortable and focused on how you and your horse are connecting energetically at that time.
Don’t overreact if your horse does not respond the way you expect.
Don’t ever have your horse go beyond their physical capabilities.
Instead:
Be positive, patient and encouraging to them
Be able to get off or stop if it doesn’t feel right. You have nothing to prove.
Be patient and err on the side of caution.
Be open to seeking out help and when in doubt ask someone for their help or perspective.
Be present in the moment and leave any doubts or concerns at home. They will pick that up from you.
The more even tempered you are around your horse the calmer he or she will be. They will trust in you knowing that you have their best interest at heart. Remember, this is not only a riding companion but a friendship and partnership where you both will become reliant on each other. As your horse looks to you to steer them in the right direction you will gain trust in your horse to protect you from danger should any arise unexpectedly.
The bond between you and your horse is one of trust, companionship, partnership and care. The more trust you create between the both of you the more enjoyable your rides together will be.
Here’s to creating a friendship like no other with your horse.
Carolyn Osborn
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