When I was in my 20's, I had the privilege of working with a sensitive, young Lusitano stallion, Jupiter. Early in our relationship together we went to a major show at a huge venue; we were in a large group class when he had a total meltdown.
Jupiter held it together for most of the class, but near the end, he became completely overstimulated and reached his maximum capacity - it felt as if he imploded, and then literally started spinning out of control.
There was one more class to go, and I considered canceling for both our sakes, but I decided to listen to my intuition and try something else. I took him to the quietest place I could find, but instead of schooling or drilling what we already knew perfectly well at home, we stood quietly on a loose rein for several moments. During this time, I felt a deep quiet intention to create a sense of safety and "we're okay" begin to grow in me. I began to feel more solid in my mind and body, more "here and now" and centered.
It's hard to describe in words the deep sense of peace that filled us both, but when we went back in to the ring for the second class, Jupiter and I felt like One Being - in seamless, harmonious partnership.
Other horses were galloping past or acting up and the stands were filled with people, but none of it mattered. The multiple judges watched us like hawks - every move was under scrutiny as we nailed every single rapid request: walk to canter, lengthen the trot, etc.. We were getting attention for a different reason now! But even that didn't matter; it was just the two of us.
The class ended and during the final line up I remember feeling filled with a sense of awe of what was possible between me and this special horse. It remains one of the most pivotal experiences in my entire equestrian history. My eyes were filled with tears and I was so touched by Jupiter's generosity, I didn't hear them announce that we had won Reserve Champion out of that large class with older, seasoned horses.
It is that feeling specifically - where the external factors, opinions and accolades fade away - and we find the peaceful still point within our deepest selves, that I want to foster in my own life, as well as in relationship with others, including the horses that grace our lives.
Whether schooling a horse with other people around, in a lesson or clinic, or at some sort of venue where "winning or losing" is typically considered, I believe "pressure" can actually be an incredible opportunity to connect with ourselves and our horses.
Interested in finding out more? Join me for a tele-class Tuesday, May 27th.
