Controlled Breathing First Step in Centered Riding by Alys Culhane I’m a returning rider who acquired more than my share of fear-based baggage during my thirty-year riding hiatus. This metaphorical suitcase sprung open and spewed its contents ten years ago when I started riding my 4-year-old mare, Raudi. In …
Send us your question and we’ll select the best expert for you. Northwest Horse SourceThe Northwest Horse Source is an independently owned and operated print and online magazine for horse owners and enthusiasts of all breeds and disciplines in the Pacific Northwest. Our contemporary editorial columns are predominantly written by experts …
by Laura Daley Senior riders often question the logic of continuing a love affair with horses. Senior riders make excellent, devoted horse people. After all, if they have not lost the love of horses by the time they reach their golden years, it is safe to say they will …
by Laura Daley When first working to overcome fear it is very important that you do not work with or ride a horse that triggers your worst fears. It is critical that the horse you are working with does not do things to harm you or itself. This includes …
by Laura Daley As the holidays approach, we all look forward to giving and receiving gifts. There are all kinds of wonderful examples of horse related items to choose from. This season, put aside the usual horse trinket and think about the surprising gift of fear. Many fearful riders deal …
by Laura Daley Having a healthy equine partner is vital to helping an insecure rider overcome fear. Most people don’t realize that having a horse with a chronic illness or injury can really erode confidence and the ability to ride well. Fearful riders who have to constantly interrupt lessons, …
by Laura Daley Training, by definition, is: the act to form by instruction, discipline or drill, to teach so as to make fit, qualified or proficient, to undergo instruction, discipline or drill. Instruction and practice is good for both the horse and horseman. A training schedule helps with setting …
by Laura Daley A good horse owner knows what it takes to maintain care and control over their own horse. Good horsemanship is the study of the required skills for training and handling of a horse. With study and training, fearful riders can go a long way toward overcoming …
Getting Past Fear While Staying Competitive by Laura Daley When you have a performance horse and you are dealing with fear issues, it is important to make a list of priorities and specific lesson plans. This will help you overcome fear while still keeping your performance horse competitive. Depending …
When dealing with fear one of the first things to address is safe, reliable tack and equipment. It is true you can use just about anything to work with a horse, but if you are working with frayed, cracked or ill-fitting tack and equipment you will not feel confident in …