I know I am boring because I keep talking about the use of BREATH and BREATHE. It's probably the most used word I say in sessions - why because it is the one thing that does the MOST GOOD and it is also the most natural cue possible!
Breathe.
However it is also the most useful tool that is always forgotten about, and completely underrated. It is the cue that is most disregarded in everyday life and by horse riders and yet it is the tool that works every time.
The use of the breathe is not some airy-fairy imaginary, breath-y thing.
I know it is not a magic body position or a leg aid that gets amazing results - but very often the simplest and easiest of cues is the most effective and it definitely warrants at least a try!
Breath is Important because - Breath is the universal equine language. It’s the initial tell-all greeting between horses - don't believe me watch your own herd. They size herd mates as well as us up by the way we breathe and the emotions carried in our breath.
It is a major part of communication, connection, leadership and relaxation.
When our breath is shallow, our chest is inhibited and tight, our jaw becomes tight and our eyes tense. This sends a message of fear, hypervigilence, resistance and restriction. Our movements in our body display the message of nervousness to our horses because they are tight and not fluid.
Did you know that a change in breathing is the very first message your horse sends to you that things are not okay.
A horse taking shallow breaths, means he is tense. The majority of time if your horse is shallow breathing it's because you are too and the signals that you are sending to your horse are that he needs to feel concern. Your horse as a prey animal, and looks for the source of trouble, as he does so his poll gets tense in the process and his oxygen intake is impacted. His head comes up and our shoulders get tight in response, along with our hands on the reins. He feels restriction on his bit, and now he’s sure there is a problem, so he loses confidence. Then the rider gets more tense, more restricted in the body, more adversarial, and fear emotions kick in.
Can you see how this is all linked to how you breathe?
You can see where the ride is headed? And it all started with your breath!
Breathing is always the first cue!
That's why I always, always start with breathwork when working with horse and rider/owner, because breath is more than that first initial, literal cue, it is also the bridge for you and your horse to either relax or come apart.
Now do you see why breathe work is worth doing and paying attention to?
If you are struggling on the ground or in the saddle and you feel a mentor could help you further with your breathing, mindset, communication and confidence - get in touch.
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