1. Take a Deep Breath
When you’re feeling tense or stressed, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to breathe. The same can be said for horses. If you sense that your horse is starting to become nervous or hyperactive, take a deep breath and encourage your horse to do the same. By slowing down your breathing, you can help your horse relax and feel more centered.
2. Provide a Safe Space
Horses feel safe when they have a defined area where they can retreat to when they feel threatened. This can be a stall, a fenced-in paddock or even a designated area in your barn. By giving your horse a safe space, you’re letting them know that they’re not alone and that they have a place to go if they need to regroup.
3. Reduce External Stimuli
Loud noises, sudden movements or flashing lights can be overwhelming for some horses. If you notice that your horse is reacting to external stimuli, try to reduce or eliminate the source of the issue. For example, if your horse is spooked by a loud noise, move to a quieter area, or use earplugs to block out the noise.
4. Try a Relaxation Technique
There are several relaxation techniques you can use to help calm your horse, including massage, aromatherapy and acupressure. These techniques stimulate your horse’s nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. If you’re interested in using relaxation techniques to calm your horse, consider working with a professional to learn more about the different approaches available.
5. Work on Groundwork
Working on groundwork exercises can help your horse become more relaxed and attentive. Groundwork includes activities like lunging, leading and desensitization, which help your horse develop better body awareness and coordination. By working on groundwork regularly, you can help your horse become more focused and relaxed, which can translate into more calm behavior under saddle.
6. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can be a powerful tool when it comes to calming your horse. By rewarding your horse for calm, relaxed behavior, you’re helping to reinforce that behavior and encourage it to continue. This can be as simple as giving your horse a treat when they remain calm in a stressful situation, or using praise and encouragement to help your horse feel more confident.
7. Stay Calm
Finally, it’s essential to remember that your horse looks to you for cues on how to react. If you become anxious, tense or nervous, your horse is likely to pick up on that energy and react accordingly. Try to remain calm and centered, even in stressful situations, and avoid reacting with fear or frustration. By staying calm, you can help your horse remain calm as well.
In conclusion, calming your horse doesn’t have to be a complex or difficult task. By using these simple techniques, you can help your horse feel more relaxed and confident, allowing you to enjoy a more positive and rewarding relationship with your equine partner.