65. Why Lunging Your Horse First Isn’t Creating Relaxation (And What to Do Instead)

Do you think your horse needs to be tired to be good?A lot of riders have been taught that a tired horse is a relaxed horse. So we lunge them first, ride them down, or keep them moving until they “settle.” But exhaustion is not relaxation — and in the long run, it often creates fitter, more frustrated horses instead of calmer ones.In this episode, Anna dives into the concepts of Reflex to Relax and Rhythmic Relaxation, exploring how rhythm, nervous system regulation, and emotional safety affect your horse’s ability to learn, trust, and stay mentally present.You’ll learn:• Why tiredness decreases learning and mental clarity• The difference between coping and true relaxation• How horses read rhythm and energy• Why rhythm signals safety to mammals• How nervous systems synchronize with each other• Why relaxation and rhythm are the true foundation of training• How riders accidentally create tension by over-asking• A simple exercise to begin teaching your horse a Reflex to RelaxThis episode also explores how many “lazy,” anxious, or resistant horses may actually be struggling with nervous system dysregulation rather than disobedience — and how teaching relaxation can change your entire relationship with your horse.Whether you ride dressage, trail ride, compete, or simply want a deeper connection with your horse, this conversation will help you rethink relaxation, training, and what horses truly need from us.Get the FREE Awareness workshop www.equusenlightened.comFind me on social media as @equusenlightened.  Join the Horse and Rider Lab on Skool. It’s free! https://www.skool.com/equus-enlightened-8966/aboutYou can also view videos of the riding episodes or listen to all of them on YouTube under Come Ride with Me Riding Videos. My channel is https://www.youtube.com/@equusenlightenedRead blogs or find more links @ https://linktr.ee/equusenlightenedFind out more about Reconnect, Rebuild, and Ride with Heart https://equusenlightened.com/reconnect-rebuild-horse-human-partnershipEmail me at Anna@equusenlightened.comHappy Riding!