February 7, 2026
Learning, Memory and Emotions   
 
 Theme: Part 3- Learn to read the horses body language by recognizing the state of their nervous system to choose the correct way for them to learn.
"What happens in the horse's brain when they learn?"
 
Teaching topics: 
Neurochemicals that influence behavior and learning:
        Cortisol, adrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, endorphins
Emotional memory vs. procedural memory
Dwell time and repetition (myelination)
Why short sessions work better than long ones
 
Video-
Horse emotions in motion. Slow-motion stress vs. relaxation responses
 
Experiential- "Neurochemical Match Game" using puppet behaviors
Soft eye - oxytocin
Stereotypic Behavior - cortisol
Licking/chewing - dopamine and Parasympathetic Nervous System
Startle - adrenaline
Participants classify behaviors into neurochemical states
 
Workshop will be held indoors.
Limited to 20 participants.