There are so many reasons to be thankful for the horses in our life, that we don’t have room to list them all. But, aside from the joy they bring us, here are 5 reasons to be thankful that you have horses in your life.
1. They Keep Us Grounded in the Present
Horses have an incredible ability to bring us into the moment. When you’re in the saddle or even just working with a horse, there’s no time to dwell on the past or worry about the future. Their sensitivity to energy and emotion reminds us to stay calm, centered, and focused. Horses teach mindfulness in a way few other experiences can. It’s important to stay focused on the task at hand when you’re riding, which allows you to disconnect from the worries of life.
2. We Build Resilience
Let’s be honest: working with horses isn’t always smooth sailing. From mastering a flying lead change to handling a spooky horse, they challenge us to be patient, adaptable, and persistent. Each setback is an opportunity to grow stronger—and for that, we owe them gratitude. You’re going to have ups and downs when it comes to training, but patience pays off, and your hard work will be rewarded.
3. They Connect Us to Nature
In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, horses offer a much-needed escape. They reconnect us to the great outdoors, whether it’s through a trail ride ride friends under autumn leaves or simply spending time in the barn. Horses give us a reason to unplug and immerse ourselves in the natural world. Spending time with your horse is a great chance to unplug and unwind.
4. Horses Give Us Community
Horses have a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s the camaraderie of a barn family, a dose of healthy competition, or simply swapping stories with fellow horse owners, horses create lasting connections. They’re at the heart of communities that support, inspire, and celebrate one another. Some of the best friends I have ever made were through the horse industry. We can relate to each other, build each other up, and learn from each other—horses give us this community.
5. They Keep Us Humble
Let’s face it: horses have a knack for ego-busting when you need it. Whether he’s unceremoniously dumping you into a puddle or trotting away from you in the pasture when you’re trying to catch him, until you’re sweating buckets, your horse has his own way of keeping you humble. Plus, between cleaning stalls, hauling hay, and posting a long trot, they’re better than any gym membership!
