The Power of a Calm Mind

Herd responds to our meditation by laying down. Right after the photo was taken the standing mule also went down.

We know that if we become fearful or upset, we can significantly amplify our horse's feelings of insecurity and trigger a panic response. What is less known is the effect our calm, present minds can have on our horses. This is particularly true these days with the level of distraction brought on by cell phones and uber-busy lifestyles. There are seldom moments of stillness and presence in our lives unless we are aware and make space and time for them.

Recently, I was helping a client with an active startle reflex get more comfortable being around horses. I wanted her to experience the feeling of stillness and presence, the kind of stillness and presence I like people to have when working with their horses, because it opens up a deeper level of communication and connection between horse and human.

I picked a meditation that Ryan Hallford had given during Shea Stewart's recent Craniosacral course in Fort Worth, Texas. My client and I did this meditation on the deck of my hay barn, which adjoins my horses' and mules' yard. When we ended the meditation, I explained the importance of observing the feeling of presence and stillness created by the meditation and of trying to learn how to hold on to it to use when working with horses. All of my herd laid down and went to sleep, as they were deeply effected by our calmed nervous systems.

A calm mind is a powerful tool for down-regulating a horse. You can learn to use it to help horses relax, rest, heal, sleep, connect, and be well.

If you would like to learn more about how to do this, please contact me.