We had a busy Thanksgiving with lots of family time and activities. I was only able to do the daily chores and some petting on the horses.
After reading Sacred Spaces, I see how even these short interactions, though, make good practice for exploring energy and intention.
As I walk to the barn, if any of the horses look my way, I speak their name and reward them. I went out at dark one night and heard a nicker and saw the silhouette of what I thought was Beautiful Girl. I walked into the turnout and found her, then petted on her for a while enjoying the moment of “communion.”
I’ve had similar moments of communion with all of them, at different times, but in the same way, and it is very rewarding. They seek out this type of connection.
And, it is a reminder that our fairytale lives with horses don’t have to include riding them, and often doesn’t.
But if we do progress to riding, it can only help us have better feel by being in constant practice connecting with them and rewarding their interest in being connected.
Winter is a great time to practice and explore just how deeply we can strengthen our bonds.
I had a very strong bond with my former horse Cowboy, but it was mostly formed when he broke his P3 and had to be confined to a 12x12 stall for six months. My farrier said, “I can fix his foot, but you have to fix this.” He touched Cowboy’s head. He told me Cowboy would go crazy being confined that long unless I could spend a lot of time with him and keep him calm and content.
I did, and it was that six months that connected our hearts deeper than I knew was possible.
I’d like to recreate that with Tumbleweed, but without the life-threatening injury. And I’d like to deepen it with my non-ridden horses, too. They have a lot to give.
How about you? How are you bonding with your herd this late fall / early winter?
One of the things I do every morning on my way to do chores, is greet my mares by name. Velvet likes to visit, and I rub her head as I give her a visual check to make sure all is well. Gussie is more reserved, but offers to touch my outstretched hand. She prefers not to be petted but likes belly and spinal scratches. I always tell them they are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteAww, those little visits are probably very enjoyable for your girls. And you’re right about how it lets us also inspect them for any changes or injuries.
DeleteIt is interesting how they know their names so well. I have tested it many times on the way to the barn, and their ears pop up when their name is spoken out. I’ve often wondered if it is their name or my intention toward them that they’re reacting to.
Those quiet moments of communion are the most memorable and rewarding.
Hmmm. There isn't much interaction that changes seasonally for us. Our daily horse interactions are routine (walking in/out etc). The order or handlers might change, but all of our family pretty much does the same name/talking/observing with our horses. Nothing out of the ordinary.
ReplyDeleteOf course, now I am wondering how reading Sacred Spaces might enhance interactions.