Last class

The last class was really fun for me because I got to see the other students - most of which hadn't really ever ridden before - experience (in my opinion) the BEST part of working with horses. There really isn't anything quite like being able to relax and move with another living being.

The tarp exercise was also really interesting. I believe it was Pearl that most of us worked with, and while generally compliant, she did not enjoy crossing the tarp, even though she did it once in the beginning without too much fuss. After that she just didn't want to cross it. So when it came to be my turn to lead her over the tarp, I didn't expect her to go over the first time, and I was prepared to try to push her from behind. However, I did go into it with the mindset of "we're going to do this no matter what" - much like the mindset I have when show jumping or going cross country. I think that mindset, whatever approach you feel in your mind, really communicates to the horses. Pearl ended up following me over the tarp no problem! That is, after I gave her some yanks and kept walking straight ahead, not looking behind, when she heisitated. This exercise proved to me again that sometimes I really can be the dominant leader. Of course, I think I act differently with horses then I do with people, in large part to my years of riding. It was a really cool experience to observe everyones different "leading" styles.

I think what I gained most from this class was seeing how simply working with a horse can bring out so many aspects of someones personality, their characteristics, and their approach to life. It really makes me interested in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. On a personal level, it was cool to see how I approach certain situations, people (in this case horses), and what I use in decision making.

It was a pleasure having class with you all and I hope everyone learned as much as I did!

~ Kaitlin