From Moshi

You know that horses are flight animals, right? I’m sure you do. It means that we naturally run away from danger. Our size and our speed are our best defenses, so we like to RUN when things get scary.

Humans have this amazing ability to do things in spite of their fears. Jane says that courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is being afraid and doing your job in spite of your fear.

It’s okay to be afraid. It’s natural and most of the time it’s smart. It’s only a problem if it stops you from doing what you want to do.

Jane helps me overcome my fears by being a good leader. I know if she gives me signals that say I am safe, then I can believe her and relax. She gives herself signals too. She makes sure she breathes deep and releases tight muscles. Sometimes she even sings to relax us both. She has lots of tools to help her overcome nervousness and fear.

What do you do to relax your horse, and yourself? Do your fears get in the way, or do you deal with them in a manner that really works for both you and your horse?

I hear your horse is looking for you at the barn! Are you on your way out to ride?

Your Friend, Moshi