Sometimes the long goal is hard to see. The little things now seem almost unnecessary, boring or a waste of time. But with time we’ll see home much they mean moving forward. 3 things that make the world of difference for your horse…. Number 1 Patience at tie up. The most valuable thing to create a good minded horse. It doesn’t just mean good tie up. It shows level headedness in new situations, helps buddy sour horses, creates a habit of relaxation- even in new places and above all keeps them safe. Number 2 tomorrow

I’m Shelayne Fico, a Certified Clinical Aromatherapist and Animal Aromatherapy Specialist with a special focus on supporting horses through safe, individualized care. I’m also an author, educator, and the founder of Shelayne Fico EquiBalance. I’m excited to be here, learn from others, exchange ideas, and connect with people who share an interest God's wonderful creation: Horses!! Although I don't personally have one, there is one that I do spend a lot of time with cuz the owner doesn't have time. His name is Louie, a senior pony.

Those of you who have had horsemanship lessons, I’m sure you have heard the term soft feel and soft hands before. There’s a huge misunderstanding though, that soft hands are not solid. They are very solid when it comes to holding - when a horse has resistance you’ll see many people pull, but the key is to hold - like a solid tree trunk in the ground. No give, but no take either - it’s a hold. Firm, without fight - just hold. But when the horse gives we must soften, slow down and give A LOT. it’s a tough concept to get your head around - so later this week I’ll launch the soft hands course. 6 really good exercises for you and your horse to soften and build the lightness that feels like magic. At half the price of a lesson and lifetime access it’s a great way to start the new year!

It doesn’t matter how small it is, or even if it’s just a short break to take a breath, make sure you stop and know it’s for you. We do things for friends, family, animals and kids and it can be tiring. When we do it for ourselves it revitalises us. You are worth a little time for you

Last night, I went to see the documentary Rescued Hearts. It was hosted at a local theater as part of a fundraising event for a local therapeutic riding center. I went in not knowing what to expect, but somewhere along the way, I found myself thinking about Snooks, the Tennessee Walking Horse my parents bought me when I was a teenager. He suffered a serious injury just days later, and for nearly four months, I could not ride him. I went out almost every day just to care for him and spend time with him, and we grew very close. I always knew that time changed Snooks, and people who had known him before told me the same. He went from being a machine to being a horse. I remember wondering if anyone had ever loved him before. What I did not realize until last night was how much he changed me, too. I remember pouring my heart out to him about my problems, fears, and frustrations. He helped an insecure young girl begin to find confidence and self-respect. The film brought back memories I had not thought about in years and reminded me just how deeply a horse can become part of our healing. It’s really a “who rescued who” situation. Here is the link to the trailer and more information about the film if you are interested. https://www.rescuedheartsfilm.com/