Used correctly, phases give our horse the opportunity to see that something uncomfortable is coming. As horses dislike discomfort, they will move away from the pressure. If we are polite and consistent with our phases, our horse will get lighter and lighter to our hand or leg until it takes very little to cause them to yield. If we skip phases or push and try to use strength, they will just become more heavy and dull each time.
If we can learn to be consistent with our phases and always start at phase 1, then follow with 2, 3 & 4, pretty soon our horse will start to see the pattern and yield from the lighter phases. If they haven’t yielded by phase 4, there are a few things to consider.
The idea isn’t to use strength on your horse. They are stronger than us and nothing is gained by trying to make them do something. Remember, there is no phase 5. ‘After phase 4 there is no more’. So, go through your phases until you get to phase 4, then without taking the pressure away completely, go back to phase 1 and start all over again. Your horse will soon see the pattern and yield to avoid the discomfort returning. It’s really important here to go straight to phase 1 from phase 4 without stopping, even for a second or they’ll find comfort for not yielding as asked. This technique will also help you avoid getting into a fight with your horse. In our frustration, we humans often revert to push and shove. Try instead to use a positive pattern of comfort and discomfort through phases.
The other point to consider here is whether your horse is trying or not. If your horse is not trying to find comfort, keep going through your phases. However, if he is trying, just hold at that phase and wait, even if he is not doing what you want. Remember, horses like to be comfortable so eventually he will discover what it is you are asking him to do. If you can recognize when he tries and reward him by not asking for more, your horse will develop heart and desire for you very quickly and will try harder for you next time. If you keep on pushing through when he tries, he’ll see no fairness or justice in that and he’ll soon stop trying and start opposing. If your horse cannot find comfort, or you don’t offer it, there is a good chance your horse will get scared, right brained and concerned for his safety. Finding comfort will no longer matter to him, as safety has become the number one priority. Fighting with your horse will only result in frustration for you and fear for your horse, both of which make a dangerous combination.
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Lesson 2, Chapter 6:
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- By Meredith Ransley, Quantum Savvy.