Must this dream be fantasy?
The horse has long been revered throughout history as the human helpmate. Human beings have had a deep and abiding relationship with the horse, not just as a partner in our labors, but as an inspiration in art, mythology, music and poetry. In fact, our use of the horse as a work animal may be the most obvious yet least interesting aspect of the profound and lasting bond that we have shared with this fascinating animal. Studies show that using horses as a tool heals the human heart and grows the human spirit. Horses
teach us trust, bonding, communication, creativity, and self-esteem.
Some animals, like dogs and cats, naturally gravitate to humans. Unique for this behaviour in the animal kingdom, dogs and cats are instinctively willing to establish and maintain relationships with humans. This is especially true of canines. Dogs display an uncanny devotion to their human masters and thrive on healthy relationships with them in work or play. How often do we read of stories where dogs or cats have travelled for miles, sometimes thousands of miles, to be reunited with their lost families. Moreover, the success of dogs in service or therapy programs for physically challenged or house-bound persons is a true wonder and testament to the magnificence of the canine mind.
Horses are of unique character in that they are capable of accepting and thriving in a relationship with humans but only after effort and patient convincing are exercised first. Indeed, the truest nature of the horse is more wild than in-born domesticated. However, with the right approach and communication techniques, horses can be won over to not only accept being domesticated by humans, but to have a wonderful and mutually beneficial relationship as well.
Early texts describe a path to training horses without the use of whips and chains, a style of training equivalent to "Horse Whispering," yet somewhere along the way this form of training was taken over by a more invasive, forceful style. Thankfully it was never lost completely and after four thousand years, there is a return to a style that enfolds all. From the tiniest ponies to the largest of the draft horses - gentle training is now the expected norm instead of training that focuses on breaking the horse's will and ultimately her spirit.
The key to the gentler forms of training, irrespective of the path, is understanding and timing. These two topics are the keystones of the human - horse connection.
When people seek professional help for their horse's behavior problems, the answer is usually rooted in one of these two areas. Either a human has misunderstood something the horse has done and made an unnecessary correction, or the human has failed to communicate with the horse effectively because of bad timing. Training from the ground up ensures a whole approach to relationship development between horse and rider. A connection based intentionally, on trust, respect and willingness.
Through planning and kindness the human can convince the horse that as long as he is with this Almighty human, previously scary things are nothing to worry about. Creating this essential bond or dependency is the foundation to the entire human - horse connection.
