Self-Regulation & Perseverance
As we head into our second week of Horsemanship, we are beginning to add complexity to the skills we have been working so hard on. Last week, we were primarily focused on getting to know our horses, communicating with each other and developing our confidence to create the best environment for our peers and our equine partners. This week, we are pushing those skills further through the introduction of formation movements that are new to both campers and their horses. Everyone seems up to the challenge!
Horses and humans are both creatures of habit. Oftentimes, this means that if we are struggling to communicate, our horses will recognize that and do what they know, not necessarily what is being asked. Last week, we focused on giving them clear and direct instructions to complete the tasks that we needed them too. This varied from turns, to slowing down, or speeding up with the hopes that in unfamiliar situations, we would be able to confidently ask for what we need and our horses would be able to respond. As we’ve worked on the formations, we’ve learned that it is also difficult for our horses to understand things in the same way it can be difficult for us.
When we are learning new things, the process often involves us having to be patient with ourselves and being cognizant of the way we are treating others. When we’re frustrated and are not patient with ourselves, our horses can recognize that and get frustrated as well. This cycle can cause both the rider and the horse to need time to regulate. Taking some deep breaths and calming yourself and your horse down is a good way to reset before you try again.
When we’re frustrated with ourselves, it can also cause us to be frustrated with other people around us. We can be short with them, we can say things we don’t mean in an attempt to control something when we can’t control the one thing we want to. A good question to potentially ask your camper is, what are some ways you can communicate with others when you are feeling stressed? Some possible answers, may be asking for space or for help. Advocating for yourself is an important step in taking care of yourself and in this case, your horse.
As the week continues, we will be applying our communication, teamwork, and regulation skills as we focus on working our way through obstacle courses and on our trail rides.