On this episode Stacy explores the nuanced idea of play in horses, figuring out three distinct sorts of playful conduct: possessed play, repressed play, and reactive play. She challenges listeners to think about playfulness on a spectrum, each in themselves and their horses.
Stacy highlights the significance of understanding and managing a horse’s playful vitality. She argues towards two extremes: fixed, unfocused play and full obedience with none playfulness. The secret is discovering a stability the place horses can expertise play or ‘blow off steam’ whereas nonetheless being aware of their handler’s instructions.
By private examples, she demonstrates how recognizing and appropriately channeling a horse’s need to play can enhance coaching and relationship. Stacy emphasizes that play isn’t nearly wild vitality, however about emotional and bodily communication between horse and rider, and the flexibility to transition easily between play and work.
