Mastery of Self with Horses by Pamela L. Maynard, PhD

The reason horses make such great therapeutic facilitators is because of how they mirror our emotions. They are capable of picking up on our feelings and they reflect what they feel back to us. For example, if you are having a bad day and show up at the barn in a bad mood, chances are your horse will sense your mood and you will not have a great ride. There have been many times when I am in a bad mood that I will purposely take note of how I am feeling and decide not to ride that day. On the other hand, if you are aware of your feelings, going for a nice, gently ride can be exactly what the doctor ordered. 

These are perfect opportunities to work on your connection with your inner guidance and learn to trust yourself as a part of your personal growth and connection with your horse. Your horse is the perfect guide to connecting with your inner wisdom by quieting your mind and calming your body, and when you are completely relaxed and in a receptive state your horse will be calm and this allows you to listen to that still, quiet voice that emanates from deep within you. Let your horse teach you how to trust your connection to this infinite wisdom that every being has access to as long as they choose to be open to it. As you make this practice a part of your everyday life, you will feel more balanced, serene, and confident regardless of what is occurring around you. This is will assist you greatly in your riding as well as mastering your chosen life lessons.

Working on This Connection

As you trust and develop your connection to your horse and your inner wisdom and use it as the compass for your journey, your journey becomes less complicated and easier to navigate. You are in the flow of energy as you set your intention to be so. Walk your talk and be present in your now. Your horse wants to remind you that this cycle of leading by example are your strongest attributes in teaching others about being present in the moment and leading a more balanced life.