In episode #7 of How We Communicate, Belinda Bolsenbroek unveils the intricate language of equine nose and lip communication. Horses can express their emotions and intentions through the movements and expressions of their nose and lips.
Belinda begins by highlighting how the shape and behaviour of the nose provide valuable insights into a horse's emotional state. From subtle changes in width and movement to crinkles around the lips, horses convey their level of interest, anticipation, and anxiety. Puffiness underneath the eyes can indicate chronic discomfort, and a tight line through the lips may signal pain or anticipation.
The nose's twitching and movement during exercises signify a horse's engagement and concentration. A slightly pointed nose can indicate the horse's maximum capacity during challenging tasks. Belinda encourages viewers to observe horses during advanced movements like Canter Pirouettes, Piaffe, or Passage, where the nose may project a sense of concentration and power.
Belinda discusses the significance of the lips, which horses use to communicate and explore their surroundings. Certain lip movements, like curling and turning the eyes upward, may indicate discomfort and the need for investigation. The shape and position of the lips provide essential cues about a horse's physical well-being and response to specific exercises.
Additionally, Belinda explores the misunderstood behaviour of nipping and pushing with the nose. Rather than being seen as aggressive or rude, these actions can be a horse's way of seeking clarity and communication. Recognising these behaviours as attempts to connect and create contact with humans is crucial for fostering a positive relationship.
Throughout the episode, Belinda focuses on the necessity of creating a safe space for horses to express themselves and communicate through their noses and lips. By understanding and responding to their nonverbal cues, horse owners can cultivate a stronger bond and promote the horse's overall well-being.
What you'll learn:
Benefits:
Tune in to this online course to help you understand these subtle cues and deepen your bond with your horse. Explore our training modules and engage in interactive learning to refine your horsemanship skills and better connect with your equine companion.
Belinda Bolsenbroek is an international authority on the Art of Classical Equitation in which the historic relationship between horse and human is expressed as a spiritual connection between two beings. Belinda harnesses the wisdom of the Old Masters, combines that wisdom with the science of biomechanics and shapes them both into a clear and defined practice that allows you to take your horsemanship to the next level.
Horses have stood at man’s side for over 4,000 years.They are our most noble companions and the ancient relationship of trust, honour and passion endures to this day.From the heroic war horse to the steady plough horse, our shared experience stretches back through the ages and is passed down to us through our genetic memories, our most prized ancestral gift.With Belinda’s guidance, you will discover this ancient inheritance and the pure joy that comes from a deep connection with your horse and look forward to the day when you become an ambassador, educator and an inspiration to others.
Empower yourself with Belinda as your coach - Belinda Bolsenbroek Academy.Now is the time to take the opportunity to invest in yourself, develop your skills and succeed.No matter how long you have been riding, whether you are an old hand or new to the art of horsemanship, there is always more to learn.As you gain greater insight into a topic, the more you learn, the more likely you are to recognise how much there is still to learn.
We also donate 25% of our profits to charity
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