Supporting riders with PTSD through horse-human connection
A recent Zoom training session with trainers and riders in Israel came about through an invitation from Aviva Glikman, whose tireless work supports both horses and people, including riders living with the effects of PTSD. During the session, we explored how developing greater awareness of our breathing, energy and emotional state can foster balance, confidence and trust. This deeper self-awareness helps strengthen the connection between horse and rider, creating a more harmonious partnership, particularly during challenging times.
My connection with Aviva goes back many years. She encouraged her student, Naama Ofir, to visit us in North Devon when I was working with four fun-loving Spanish stallions. During that visit, we demonstrated how a genuine partnership with horses can be developed both on the ground and under saddle through core awareness, breathing, energy and communication.
Today, Aviva continues to provide invaluable support for riders living through extremely challenging circumstances. Many of the riders involved in our recent session came from Israel, Ukraine, the UK and Russia. While their backgrounds and experiences differed, many were dealing with significant levels of stress and uncertainty.
A common theme quickly emerged during our discussion. Without realising it, many riders were breathing shallowly, creating tension that affected their balance, relaxation and emotional connection with their horses. We explored how true communication with horses begins with self-awareness. Before we can connect deeply with our horses, we must first understand our own emotional and physical state.
Traditional riding instruction often focuses heavily on hands, legs and achieving a particular result. While these skills are important, lasting partnership develops through trust, understanding and connection. Horses are remarkably sensitive to our breathing, energy and emotional state. When we learn to regulate ourselves, our horses respond positively and often become calmer, more balanced and more willing partners.
The session lasted over an hour and included around twelve participants. It was a wonderful opportunity to share experiences and discuss both technical and emotional challenges. Going forward, I hope we can continue these conversations in smaller groups, where riders may feel even more comfortable discussing individual concerns and receiving personal guidance.
My sincere thanks to Aviva Glikman for creating this opportunity and for the remarkable work she is doing. The photographs shared from the programme beautifully illustrate riders beginning to build stronger connections with their horses – new beginnings founded on trust, understanding and awareness.
The opportunity being offered to these riders is truly life-changing. The lessons they learn will stay with them for years to come, and the horses will undoubtedly appreciate every releasing breath, every moment of relaxation and every step towards a deeper partnership.
You are all very much in our thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to working together again in the future.
For those interested, I am happy to offer both Zoom and PIVO training sessions. Small groups of four to six participants work particularly well. These sessions allow me to introduce my learning pathway and experience before opening the discussion to challenges riders may be facing with their own horses.