The horse as a partner

Employing horses to teach people is no foreign concept. There are many people around the world drawing on the unique attributes of our equine friends to provide opportunities for personal growth and self discovery. In particular the lessons we can learn from non verbal communication are incredibly valuable. Our fast paced rapidly changing environment, with its increasing reliance on technology provides limited situations in which we need to use these skills. Its seems a natural conclusion that given many of school aged children and preschool for that matter, all of who have experienced a heavy presence of technology for their entire lives, may be lacking and or have underdeveloped skills in these areas, . As a result of this reduced awareness of non verbal communication and understanding of body language, we find many not just youth but adults experiencing lower self-esteem, lack of confidence, and inability to successfully establish boundaries .We rarely knowingly and willingly practice or refine these skills. One explanation may be that when communicating with people we are less likely to receive immediate and accurate feedback on how effectively we communicate. This lack of human feedback can be a result of a number of factors, and may vary from individual to individual, however when we interact with a horse you will find it will provide immediate and accurate feedback on your communication skills and body language. To gain trust and respect from a horse you need to find within yourself the ability to master your emotions, become acutely aware of your body language, and provide confident and believable leadership. Without these or an awareness of these skills partnering with a horse will most likely prove to be difficult.