Training using the Waterhole Rituals 1
Jul 30th, 2008 by Carolyn Resnick Method
Hello again. I recently had a letter from Helene in New York who was telling me about her attempts to get to know a large German warm blood that was recently bought by her barn owner. Helene freely admits she is only a novice horse rider and has no horse of her own but she wanted my feedback on her attempts to use the Waterhole Rituals with this powerful horse. My reply to her was quite lengthy but I believe very useful for a lot of other people looking to start using my Method. I am therefore going to share my reply to Helene with you today and on Friday. So let’s get started….
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Hi Helene
We are kindred spirits and I am happy you enjoyed reading my book and blog. My advice is to stop your work with Max. I can see from your letter that you have a lot of talent for creative exploration and I would venture to say that you will be able to develop your skill with horses easily, however, you need more knowledge and horsemanship skill before you try to implement my Methods with Max.
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I really wish people would value the schoolteacher and lesson horse. Yes, they are calm and comfortable to be with, not fiery and excitable (which I guess is beauty to many) but can provide the beginner with so much knowledge!
I agree, there is so much that goes on just leading our horses. I find it to be a challenge and just one more way that I can get to know my horse. In some ways- I find it more challenging than riding my horse around. And I get to pretend that I am in a Robert Vavra book:-) Life is Good!
I have been going on hikes with my horse for a while and always find it to be a valuable experience for both me and my horse. We work on both of our leading skills as well as personal space and just romping through the bushes! Earlier in the spring when all of the wild flowers were out it was so much fun looking at all of the flowers and have having my horse right next to me. Seemingly unreal!
Carolyn hits the nail on the head with this valuable nugget of knowledge!
Thank you for asking. When I was a kid of about 9, I opened up a training center. I had no skill at that time. I got horses in because my prices were lower than the board in town so I had a waiting list. The first horse was a bucker. I had no idea how to fix this problem so I asked my Dad and he said, “Hand walk him into the desert for 30 minutes and then back again and call that training.” So I did for a month. I didn’t know why this was going to work, I just knew. Kids are like that.
One day my Dad said, “By the change of attitude that I see in your horse I think you have enough control and bond that he will not buck any more.” So I tried it and he did not buck with me or anyone else.
I have a lifetime of stories regarding walking horses in nature, it is most powerful.
You are in harmony and control in a very minor away. Of coure, this exercise is only good for new people with horses if the horse leads with little resistance. It all works. Bit by bit something special happens. Start out on short journeys and increase the distance as the horse begins to enjoy the walks.
Then there is the picnic. This is wonderful too because you need to teach the horse to wait for the food to be laid out for the both of you and the horse gets a clear idea of the purpose of the journey in nature. One is not more powereful than the other, with or without the picnic. Start without the food first to be able to keep the control at the begining.
Nature brings the bond, vibrational alignment, energetic connection and then the adventure brings on the lessons that need to be addressed.
Hope that helps.
Carolyn
Hi Carolyn,
Please do tell us about hand walking horses in nature!
My plan B is to take Max through the woods (On a harness and accompanied by someone (VERY) experienced …but I do not think that is what you mean!
Kindest regards,
Helene
Many thanks for your supportive words, Rose.
Meaty and your friend sound so wonderful.
Reading about Stila’s achievement, Meaty, Destiny and so many others, one realizes the amazing impact that Carolyn has on so many people and their horses.
Carolyn learned the WaterHole Rituals among mustangs, but it is her loving heart and her profound sense of respect for everything alive that are at the center of it all.
Rose,
Thank you for sharing. I am very suprised at how many people enjoy sharing the moment with their horses. It is my secret to life enrichment, wisdom and the training of horses made simple. I have another secret I also want to share but so far no-one has asked for it yet.
Have you ever hand walked your horse in nature?
Carolyn
Dear Carolyn,
Very interesting,
From the moment I had Destiny at 10 months old , I should have known you.
I watched him in the field with other horses but never sat with him myself. He is now 18, and only has me. We finally are sitting together.
Thanks
Rose
Hi Carolyn,
What I find very refreshing is your honesty. Most trainers would tell you that their method will work regardless of the circumstances. Sort of a one size fits all deal. The fact that you’re more interested in Helene’s finding a better match than you are in selling your DVDs is just wonderful!
I have a friend who is going through a similar situation as Helene right now. Her only experience has been with high-strung equitation horses at a nearby show barn. While she has enjoyed this immensely, a mutual friend has finally convinced her to bring a smaller, more settled Welsh Cob to her home for the first time. It’s been hard for her to make the change, but it’s certainly to her benefit as she’s shown interest in riding in our local mountains–something she wouldn’t dare dream of before now. I look forward to watching this new pair flourish and blossom into something beautiful. I’ve met the new horse–a gelding named Meteor, and I’m certain it will be only a matter of time before a tremendous bond is formed. It’s only been a couple of weeks so far, but whenever she yells “Meaty!” from her house, he’ll trot up nickering. Helene, I know it’s hard to give up on a horse you’ve been working with, but with a better match, you’ll be able to learn together to create this wonderful relationship you’ve been wanting. I wish you luck in your search. –Carol
Hi Carolyn,
You have an award awaiting you at my site! Please stop by and pick it up.
Harmony,
Janet
This answers a lot of my own questions too. Since I do not have my own horse, I thought working with a calm horse in a stable I go to – I would not dare to go for more complex horse, from small interaction I have already learnt how smart beings they are, knowing exactly when I don’t know what I am doing. And there is certainly a lot I do not know. I have a great respect that. And also I do not have opportunity to do it everyday, to just be with a horse, which is what I would have to do to feel comfortable with him or her. I had that situation once when I was a child, with a mare, and we both felt calm and comfortable with each other just spending time together. Therefore I decided, though my heart is longing to be and work with a horse Carolyn’s way, to wait….. (as I can see/read, it is a good decision). I guess I can work on myself, and educate myself in whatever way possible, and just wait till my situation evolves and one day me and my horse can both enjoy the process. I love reading what you write, Carolyn – as I read from the replies, it is a wonderful advice and guidance and ‘clearing of the path’ for many of us. So thank you very much, looking forward the part 2
Best regards
Hana
Thanks for your support.
Carolyn
Great teaching, Carolyn! Everything that everyone does with a horse has an impact on the horse – even the person who fills the water bucket or cleans the stall. It’s so easy to take a wrong turn and give the horse the wrong message. I look forward to part 2 of your answer tomorrow.
Agreed Stina! CLEAR speech!
I am very grateful for such a generous answer and teaching.
Thank you so much for clearing my path Carolyn.
Kindest regards,
Helene
PS: I bought lots of books this weekend!
Dear Stina,
Thank you Stina, so glad you are following my blog so closely.
Love,
Carolyn
Clear speech!