Have you ever wondered how your mood affects your horse? When it comes to looking after your horse, how you feel and think has a big impact. Whether you’re handling, grooming, feeding, or riding, your mood affects your horse’s mood too. Here’s how keeping a positive mindset can improve every part of your horse’s care from on the ground to in the saddle.
On the ground
Horses are sensitive to our emotions and are very intuitive. If you’re stressed or anxious, your horse will likely pick up on those feelings and become stressed themselves. On the other hand, if you’re calm and relaxed, your horse will mostly respond better and feel more comfortable around you.
Research conducted by the Royal Veterinary College has explored ‘how human stress impacts horses. Their studies found that horses can experience increased stress levels when their handlers are stressed, highlighting the importance of a calm handler’. (Source- Royal Veterinary College - Veterinary Behaviour)
When you handle and groom your horse, your mood comes through in your actions. If you’re feeling rushed or frustrated, your horse might become nervous or uncomfortable. Take your time and stay patient. Grooming is a great bonding experience if you approach it with a relaxed attitude. Instead of rushing through, use this time to connect with your horse and allow them to enjoy this time together. Also, when bringing your horse in from the field, a calm and unhurried approach helps ensure they’re relaxed and ready for the ride.
Feeding is another area where your mind matters. Horses thrive on routine, so a stressed or hurried feeding routine can cause anxiety and may even create digestive problems. Approach feeding with calmness and consistency to make mealtime a relaxing and enjoyable time for your horse.
In the saddle
When you’re in the saddle, your mindset sets the tone for how the ride will go and how well your horse learns and responds. If you’re frustrated, your horse may become confused or resistant. Having a clear plan with goals for the week, month, and season helps keep training focused and effective. Incorporate a variety of exercises to keep things engaging and celebrate small successes to build your horse’s confidence. By staying positive, patient, and organised, you create a supportive environment where your horse feels comfortable and eager to learn.
A study from the University of Bristol, show that building trust and maintaining a positive relationship significantly impacts a horse's responsiveness and well-being. A supportive and patient approach helps strengthen this bond, making training more effective and enjoyable. (Source - University of Bristol - School of Veterinary Sciences)
Hacking can be a great way for both rider and horse to relax and enjoy time together outside the arena. To make the most of your hacking, plan your route carefully, choosing bridleways that are safe and enjoyable for both you and your horse. Consider bringing a friend along to make the ride more enjoyable and to provide extra support. If your horse tends to worry about new places, it’s helpful to ride with a more experienced horse that is comfortable in various environments. This can provide reassurance and help your horse build confidence. By planning and considering your horse’s needs, you create a positive and enriching experience that benefits both of you.
The symbolic relationship between our mind and our horse’s mind means that how we feel can directly affect how our horse feels. By approaching each aspect of care with patience and positivity, you not only improve your horse’s comfort and happiness but also strengthen the bond you share.
Want to make the most of your time with your horse? In our next blog, we’ll share 10 Ways to Help You Stay Calm and Enjoy Your Time with Your Horse. Discover practical tips to help you stay calm and relaxed whether you're on the ground or in the saddle.
