The How Horses Communicate course, led by Belinda Bolsenbroek, is an in-depth exploration into the intricate world of horse-human interaction. This course is designed to help equestrians of all levels develop a deeper understanding of how to communicate effectively with their horses, using techniques rooted in body awareness, energy management, and the subtle nuances of intention and timing.

Belinda explains the importance of starting rehabilitation on the ground rather than on horseback. By doing so, the horse's body can recover more quickly and regain its strength without the added weight of a rider. Through in-hand work, Belinda employs a range of dressage exercises to help Calypo regain his form, shape, and release, all within the horse's capacity.

Learn to decipher their facial expressions and subtle cues, enabling you to understand their emotions and needs better.

Join Belinda in this insightful episode as she explores the power of a horse looking away as a form of communication.

Learn to identify signs of stress, anxiety, or pain through breathing patterns. - IN lesson #5 of How Horses Communicate, Belinda Bolsenbroek delves into the significance of observing and understanding the breathing patterns of horses. By paying close attention to their breath, horse owners gain valuable insights into the horse's emotional and physical state during exercises. Belinda explains that when a horse holds its breath and displays anxiety, it often mirrors the tension and breath-holding of the rider.

Understanding equine eye and ear communication is crucial for Belinda begins by discussing the significance of the shape and form of the eyes. Triangular eye shapes and crinkles around the bottom of the eye can indicate discomfort or worry. Puffiness underneath the eyes is often a sign of chronic pain that requires further investigation. Blinking is another important aspect of eye communication, serving as a way for horses to process information and indicating the need for a change in exercise or a moment to process.r building a strong bond, promoting the horse's individuality and awareness.

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.

This episode highlights the importance of recognising and addressing discomfort and stress, promoting a harmonious partnership between horse

Common Concern: You’ve noticed your horse yawning frequently, and it’s leaving you puzzled. Is your horse simply relaxing, or is there an underlying issue causing stress or discomfort?

Belinda explains that yawning in horses can have different meanings. A single yawn might be a positive sign, indicating a release of tension, much like when we stretch after a long day. However, if your horse yawns repeatedly, it could signal deeper issues, such as stress, discomfort, or anxiety.

Have you ever noticed your stallion or gelding dropping its penis during training and wondered what it really means? In episode #10 of How We Communicate, Belinda Bolsenbroek explores the subtle cues and behaviours exhibited by stallions and geldings, focusing on the often misunderstood act of dropping their penises.

Learn to differentiate between relaxed playfulness and signs of anxiety or overwhelm when observing the dropping of a horse's penis.

Ever seen your horse drop its head during a session and wondered if it’s more than just a stretch? In episode #11 of How We Communicate, Belinda Bolsenbroek delves into the nuances of head-dropping behaviour in horses, shedding light on what this subtle cue could be telling you.

In episode #12 of the How Horses Communicate series, Belinda Bolsenbroek delves into the importance of in-hand exercises for promoting healthy, functional, and long-lasting soundness in horses. Whether you're a horse owner or therapist, understanding how to use these exercises effectively can be incredibly empowering.

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Belinda begins by exploring the typical training approach for workhorses, which often centres on teaching them cues to disassociate from their surroundings and redirect their focus back to their human handlers. In this process, the horse might stand square, lower its head slightly, and even close its eyes. Belinda explains that closing the eyes in this context is not necessarily a sign of conflict or resistance but rather an indication of the horse internalising and detaching from the present moment.