Book & DVD Reviews

“The breath is the essence of all life and connection." – Jenny Rolfe

Short Excerpt from Breathe Life Into Your Riding

To be published by J.A. Allen in Spring 2012

We live in an era where the natural forces of our planet earth such as the wind and the waves, are being harnessed to produce much needed energy. This will create power for the future as our modern lifestyle is rapidly destroying the natural resources of our planet.

All life is energy and if we become more aware of how our personal energy can be used to connect with the horse, a much deeper empathy can be built over a period of time. Much of our present day teaching relates to technical knowledge but my experience, working daily with my stallions, has taught me the significance of a further dimension.  The power of breathing and energy exchange remains almost unexplored, between people and horses. This dimension offers a future of revelation for the student who becomes conscious of personal breathing patterns and energy.

When we are fully aware of our thoughts, body language and breathing we can communicate with the horse in a most profound way, connecting with his world. Our busy, over active thoughts can become more tranquil as we connect with the ‘here and now’ and allow our mind just to stay in the present moment. In this way we learn the personal power of just feeling, being and allowing. We can let go of our more stressful thoughts of achieving, perfecting and the demanding expectations of our normal life style.

WHERE THE MIND GOES THE CHI WILL FOLLOW

Within Eastern culture, controlled energy is known as ‘Chi’ energy, which can be used as a vehicle for healing and also within the martial arts. In China there is an old saying ‘Where the mind goes, the ‘chi’ will follow’.  This energy of ‘chi’ can have a huge impact on our relationships and often when we feel ‘on the same wavelength’ with another, it is created by a connection of ‘chi’.

Chi energy can be used to enhance healing normally through a state of meditation allowing the healing energy to flow through the hands and finger tips. It is good to remember these possibilities as we caress the neck of the horse to help him to calm and release tension. If we are capable of healing and giving out therapeutic energy, the horse will immediately receive this and it can become part of our day-to-day relationship with him. This type of energy awareness will help to build a very deep bond of security and connection. We can use the power of a gentle touch to settle a horse who has suffered either physically or mentally.

Once we make a decision to take time out to focus on our breathing we become empowered to create an environment where we can flourish mentally, physically and spiritually. This decision will detach us from the pull of past events and the concern for the future. We can become aware of the present moment and how we feel physically as we re-connect with our inner spirit. Once we allow ourselves time to connect in this way, we can feel a depth of harmony and oneness with creation. The horse will instantly feel an attraction as we create a place for focus and communication. The connection is similar to a meditation, a communion of souls. The gulf between man and horse is bridged as all our senses are brought into that one moment in time. The horse feels our complete focus and energy as our true personality can flourish. We are not suppressed by concerns for either the past or the future.

SUBTLE ENERGY

 When we are in good general health, there will be an invisible aura of energy that surrounds every living creature, including human life. Much scientific evidence now recognises the importance of personal energy in the western world. For centuries the cultures of the east have placed more importance on the practise of deeper breathing to expand personal energy to support good health.

OUR BREATHING HAS A POTENT EFFECT ON THE MIND OF A HORSE

Over many years I have been fascinated to see the potent effect of our breathing upon the mind of the horse. Each day working with different horses I find a connection with the horse where he seems to feel secure and comfortable. As the horse really begins to connect with my breathing I sense his focus and attention are more directed towards me, which brings the relationship together.