The Value Of Subtle Communication
Who at this point hasn't heard the term horse whisperer? I smile when people ask if I am a horse whisperer. I actually tell them it's the horses that whisper in MY ear! My job is to listen closely.
Horses only shout at us when we don't recognize those subtle communication efforts.
I should know, listening to horses is a major part of my work. A flick of an ear, the glance of an eye, a difference in muscle tone, a shift of the body, the stomach starting to gurgle, the lip finally relaxing, a content sigh.
On the other hand - the eye widening ever so slightly, holding the breath, the subtle start of a brace, the leaning away from me or towards me, a worried look, the nostrils suddenly flaring, the switch of the tail, a tightness in the rib cage - all meant to communicate.
As a prey species, horses typically do not want to show us when they are hurt or not feeling well. They are not hiding it for any other reason than showing signs of weakness in a predator-filled world is against their survival instinct. It's how nature designed them.
So when they DO show us signs - a lack of performance or changes in behavior - we need to take it seriously. It is their ONLY way of communicating to us that all is not well in their world.
Riser - one of my "clients" - is a great example. He is one of the most generous horses you will ever meet. You ask and he delivers. But his body does not always cooperate. He has had some serious medical issues - from injuries to Lyme Disease. So when you have a horse like him, you have to pay attention. Luckily, his owner is very attuned to him.
For instance, the first outward sign that all is not well is typically a slight change in behavior. He just doesn't seem as "sparkly". His eyes have a little less life. He doesn't have his usual sense of humor (which is actually a big red flag because he has a big sense of humor). His coat may look a bit more dull. He still gives you 100% percent, but his owner just knows he is not right.
Paying attention to all the little things has enabled them to address things sooner. They now can employ different strategies to support him in a much more proactive manner and it has helped Riser to stay healthy and vibrant. You know the saying: one stitch in time saves nine.
Today, Riser is in excellent shape, has been more sound than ever and he is back to being ridden. Which is such a huge relief to his owner. He is back to his antics, including being his funny and opinionated self and happy with life. You really can't put a price on that after so many years of trials and tribulations.
Not every horse is generous like Riser. Some horses let it all hang out and you know immediately when things are awry. Others are very stoic and just do their job until one day everything comes to a screeching halt. So I don't want you to think the worst every time your horse acts differently. But I do want you to pay attention when you see subtle changes. Too many times we think a horse is acting out when in reality they are trying to tell us that they are in pain, or not feeling well.
So what are the benefits of seeing those subtle signs?
- You can address things earlier before they become major.
- You can take a proactive approach vs being reactive.
- You can prevent injuries or even lessen the severity of them.
- You will increase his performance.
- You will improve his overall well-being.
- Your horse will develop a deep trust in you because he will know you hear him.
- Your connection will deepen.
- You will increase your own awareness and knowledge.
- You become a more intuitive rider/trainer.
- Your training and riding program can be tailored to your horse's individual needs.
It's really amazing how such a seemingly simple skill can have a profound effect on your relationship with your horse.
If you are interested in finding out how bodywork can benefit your horse, give me a call. I'd love to hear from you.