Welcome to our 100th podcast episode!

In the last episode, we discussed permitting yourself to trust your instincts. Today, we continue that discussion, diving even deeper into the topic.

Tuning In

Horses are constantly communicating their needs, but we often stop noticing the subtle ways they demonstrate how they feel physically, emotionally, and instinctually. By slowing down, tuning in, calming down, and asking what they need, we can start seeing them clearly again.

Physical Silence

Early intervention means noticing whispers of pain before they escalate. Horses often show early discomfort through subtle cues, such as stiffness, girth sensitivity, or reluctance to move, but those signals are often dismissed as personality quirks. Ignoring physical signs can ultimately lead to chronic health problems.

Emotional Silence

When horses express anxiety or stress, and it is dismissed or medicated rather than addressed, they stop communicating their emotional needs. Separation anxiety, behavioral stress, and high arousal are not problems to suppress. They’re messages that require consistent attention, gradual training, and emotional support to rebuild trust.

Instinctual Silence

Ignoring the natural biology of a horse (Social needs, movement requirements, and grazing behavior) creates systemic stress, metabolic dysfunction, and delayed healing. With long-term confinement, isolation, or mismanaged diets, horses become quiet, masking their real health and welfare needs.

Human Awareness

Our own anxiety, busyness, or problem-focused mindset can block communication. Horses mirror our nervous state, so pausing, grounding yourself, and observing calmly allows subtle signals to emerge. Daily wellness check-ins, curiosity-driven observation, and tracking patterns will help you identify root causes before problems escalate.

Re-establishing Communication

Shift from “What’s wrong?” to “What does my horse need?” Focus on body, mind, and spirit. Pause, breathe, and observe before taking action. Small, consistent practices, including meditative observation and affirmations, can help you maintain a focused mindset, reinforce trust, and encourage your horse to start communicating once again.

Tracking Patterns

Observe your horse’s energy, movement, social behavior, and emotional responses every day. Look for correlations with diet, herd dynamics, weather, or schedule changes. Noticing patterns allows early intervention, supports holistic well-being, and prevents symptoms from worsening.

Prevention and Wellness

Horses never stop talking. By creating space to listen and responding thoughtfully, you become a true health advocate. Supporting wellness instead of chasing symptoms fosters partnership, helps catch issues early, and leverages your horse’s innate wisdom for better health outcomes.

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website.

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