Revisiting the world of horse training after having her first child, a woman found her self-confidence challenged by a spirited horse named Ace. Initially, her fears and self-doubt overwhelmed her as she struggled with Ace's reactive nature, leading her to question her abilities and eventually pause her training efforts upon learning of her second pregnancy. The journey, however, became a profound lesson in personal growth when she realized that her inner turmoil was the true obstacle she needed to overcome.
Recognizing her significant role in the training dynamic, she embarked on a path of self-discovery that transformed her approach to horse training. Ace's demands pushed her to delve deeper into her own psyche, encouraging her to become the calm and assertive leader he needed. This shift not only improved her relationship with Ace but also rekindled the sense of wonder and presence she experienced as a teenager working with horses.
Through Ace, she was reminded of the magic found in slowing down and embracing a child-like curiosity, a lesson that transcended horse training and enriched her life. The journey with Ace highlighted the deep connection between horses and humans, showcasing how these animals can reflect our inner selves and inspire us to grow. It was a testament to the transformative power of equine partnerships and the endless possibilities that arise when we open our hearts to the magic around us.
Fingers grasp the cool doorknob; one boot hits the step, then the other. The door closes firmly behind me as I push back, ensuring it’s latched.
A deep breath of cool fall air fills my lungs. I pause. I hear my kids inside playing with the sitter. A smile tugs at the corners of my lips, slowly making way for a big toothy grin.
It’s time! My time! As I walk out to the pasture, my gaze turns skyward as a flock of geese honk overhead, they’re flying low to the ground, and I know they’re heading to the water across the road. I close my eyes with the sun on my face and take another deep breath.
Freedom. Ace isn’t far now. His head rises from the grass as his ears prick in my direction. Hey buddy. Warmth fills my heart, it quickly spreads through my whole body, and I feel like I’m walking in an orb of warm golden joyfulness.
I’m home. Touching his neck, breathing deep into his shoulder and getting the biggest dopamine kick from his scent.
This is tranquillity. Ace sidesteps over to the fence to let me slide onto his back. We casually walk away from the herd, listening to the leaves fall gently to the ground while others crunch under hoof.
Deep inner calm. Sitting on Ace, I can’t believe I almost said no.
I almost allowed guilt, shame, overwhelm and stress to keep me trapped, small, exhausted and defeated.
Proud. Good boy, Ace. A gentle, loving rub on his damp neck as we finish our ride. Gratitude fills my heart as I see how far we’ve come.
Connection. Believing in myself. Connecting to my heart to know what I need. Trusting my soul to lead the way. Feeling more trust and connection to my horse than ever before.
Partnership. With peace in my heart and a gentle smile on my face, I grasp that cool doorknob once more and know in my soul I made the right decision.
It's my heart's prayer that you get to feel fulfilled and at ease with your time with horses, overcoming your struggles.Looking to connect with other horsewomen who are daring to Rise Up & Ride?
See you inside.
Now that I am aware of my previous training methods' errors, it's becoming a little difficult to balance sometimes knowing what role I should be in. Previously, I was all leader, more so a dictator. What I wanted to happen happened; it didn’t matter much if the horse wanted to or not...Now that I don’t want to be a dictator, I also want to avoid becoming too passive with my horse so he is walking all over me physically, or that I am avoiding every situation that makes him nervous. It is a fine line that seems so complicated at the start. Then I realized... - click to read on.
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