Developing a new mindset

One thing I have struggled with from the very beginning of my journey is developing a new mindset, or in other words, thinking like a horse during every moment of our play sessions. It is so easy to start thinking like a predator, or start getting ahead of your self, and you're horses abilities. I think it is really important to make sure you're doing things FOR the horse, not for your own personally wants, or to him.

What I just wrote is something I have struggled with myself big time. A few weeks ago, Mirka told me that Blaze shouldn't even be ridden right now, (because he has no back muscle). This was a true test whether I was doing things FOR him, or doing things because I WANTED too. Because I love to ride, and I found myself struggling because I wanted to improve things under saddl such as trot, canter, lead changes). Isn't it amazing how selfish we become when it comes to our wants? And our horses needs? Usually we put our wants before our horses needs, and I've done that allot. And it has really jeopardized my relationship with some of my horses, (in the past.)

So, how do we change this? By developing a new mindset!! Having someone be straight up with you, learning how IMPORTANT the horses needs are before your wants. Learning to TRULY care about how your horse feels about you.

Why is this so difficult?
Because we usually look at horses as some sort of entertainment, a hobby, something fun for us. How many people truly look at a horse as you would a friend? you wouldn't ask you're friend to do something for you if they were sick, or in pain right?
I think the secret is learning how to treat your horse like you would your best friend. And of course, no friendship is perfect, friends fight and have misunderstandings. Just like you will with your horse, but you will learn to work together.

This is something that Mirka has really helped me change about myself, and I'm still working on it. Never ending self improvment right?

Something to lick and chew on!

Naturally
Hannah