Herd Observation

It often surprises people when I initially tell them that I do not ride either of my horses. Not long ago, I did not see any value in being at the barn to do anything other than ride. So, what changed that mindset?

𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐫𝐧.

The more time I spent at the barn NOT riding (i.e. barn chores, assisting with Summer Camp or lessons), the more I observed horses in their element during all hours of the day.

There is SO much we can learn about horses from outside of the saddle. I am not talking about groundwork, but rather, just simply observing what is happening around you with your 5 senses.

Hence, why the foundation of my Equine-Facilitated Learning program is based in herd observation. We will get up close and personal with the horses; however, it may not be during the first or even second session.

“𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐞”.

Fellow equestrians, I urge you all to carve out at LEAST 5 or 10 minutes each week to solely spend time with your horses. Take away the expectation to ride during that visit and just observe them in their most natural state. What do you notice?

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With H.O.P.E.

Diana Bezdedeanu