Developing "Feel"

In this context, pressure is anything the horse experiences as a request to change or respond. It may be direct, such as touch, tension on a lead rope or rein, or the use of a rider’s leg. It may also be indirect, such as the human’s position, movement, approach, or use of space. Pressure does not have to be forceful. Ideally, it begins with the lightest clear cue appropriate for that horse and that situation.

“Feel” is the horseperson’s growing ability to apply pressure clearly and recognize the short window of time in which to release it. This requires knowing what response you are looking for and watching the horse carefully enough to notice the first sign of a “try” – the earliest indication that the horse is searching for or beginning the desired response. The sooner the release occurs within that window, the more clearly the horse can connect the release with the response that produced it. Releasing too late, releasing for the wrong response, or failing to release at all can blur the message and leave the horse confused.

Many skilled horsepeople have developed feel through years of observation, experience, trial, and adjustment. The Equine Mandala and Being Herd & Seen™ bring together a large body of evidence-based, science-informed information about equine physiology, natural behavior, learning, communication, and nervous-system responses, helping people develop feel more intentionally and efficiently.

The horse already brings the sensory, social, and learning abilities needed to understand and respond within the interaction. Much of the work therefore belongs to the human – becoming knowledgeable and observant enough to recognize the horse’s first try, and timely enough to make the release clear.

Developing feel helps the horse learn faster, reduces confusion and unnecessary escalation, and supports greater willingness, responsiveness, and confidence. It makes everyday handling, groundwork, riding, veterinary care, and competition safer, clearer, and more satisfying for both horse and human.

The search for “feel” creates many small successes, each of which builds confidence and encourages further learning.