(Part 2) Creating Openness and Growth in the Horse/Rider Relationship

Equestrian Voices

When it comes to riding, more often than not the focus is placed on the horse - what are they doing, how are they feeling, what can we improve with them, etc. But we all know that the horse is only 50% of the equation - the other 50%? You: the rider. So why does it always feel like focusing on yourself, especially out of the saddle, is somehow selfish or irrelevant in terms of your time and effort? In the second of this two-part podcast, host Caroline Culbertson continues her conversation with Dr. Paul and Justin Haefner of Riding Far LLC to discuss the human part of the equation. Specifically, how being self-actualized and self-regulating can have a wildly positive influence on how our horses respond to us (and their environment) both on the ground and while being ridden.

During this continued conversation, Caroline, Dr. Paul, and Justin also discuss:

• Why investing in yourself as a self actualized person is also an investment in your riding.

• The mix of patience and process in the horse/rider relationship.

• How truly powerful it can be when a trainer claims both their place and their competence in the larger industry.

• The way in which disintegration can exacerbate moments of fear or tension in the saddle, and how to overcome it.

• The Polyvagal Theory (we’re getting very technical and we love it!) and how it applies to riding.

• The difference between a “brilliant” horse and a horse that just doesn’t self regulate very well.

• How a horse’s job is more than what it does in the ring, and why that’s important to keep in mind.

• Why every rider has a responsibility to be aware of their ability (and their horse’s ability!) to self regulate in a given situation.