Happy rider, Healthy horse⎮dressage rider, dressage exercises, horse trigger point therapy, horse acupressure

EP 16 // No 5/5 of the From Nerves to Flow series: Improving Horse Relaxation at Home: Training Exercises to Reduce Tension Before Competitions

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🎙 EP 16 // No 5/5 of the From Nerves to Flow series: Improving Horse Relaxation at Home: Training Exercises to Reduce Tension Before Competitions

 

In this final episode of the From Nerves to Flow series, we turn our focus to your horse’s relaxation — and how small, consistent exercises at home can lead to a calmer, more confident partner in the competition arena.

You’ll learn simple, showground-friendly exercises to reduce tension and improve connection — both from the ground and from the saddle. We’ll also explore how using treats and positive reinforcement can help your horse relax, not just mentally but physiologically, by activating their parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” system).

This episode ties everything together from the series — helping you and your horse find calm, confidence, and flow through mindful training habits that become second nature, even under competition pressure.

 

🐴 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

  • Why breathing (yes, again!) is your secret weapon for relaxation — and how we all tend to hold our breath when our horses get tense.
  • Groundwork exercises to build trust and softness, like the Breathing & Stillness exercise and soft yield patterns.
  • How to use clicker training and treats effectively to reward calm behavior and trigger natural relaxation through chewing and saliva production.
  • Under-saddle relaxation tools, including the Mounting Stillness reward, Stretching Circle in Trot, and Smooth Transitions for softness and balance.
  • How to bring these same tools to the showgrounds — to help your horse find familiarity and calm, even in new environments.
  • Why practicing relaxation daily makes it easier to stay calm and connected when competition nerves or pressure start to build.

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    💡 Key Takeaways:

    • Relaxation begins with you — your breath, your energy, and your presence.
    • Treats can be powerful tools for relaxation — they not only reward calmness but also activate your horse’s natural relaxation response.
    • Consistency is key: the more you practice calm, connection-based work at home, the more automatic it becomes under pressure.
    • Flow isn’t about perfection or control — it’s about trust, patience, and presence between you and your horse.

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      🧩 From Nerves to Flow – Series Recap:

      1. Episode 1: Dealing with Competition Nerves – How to Stay Calm, Focused & Confident
      2. Episode 2: How to Prepare for Your Next Dressage Competition – Visualization & Pre-Show Routines
      3. Episode 3: The Power of Patience – How to Feel and Support Your Horse During Competitions
      4. Episode 4: How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Other Riders and Focus on Your Own Journey
      5. Episode 5: Improving Horse Relaxation at Home – Training Exercises to Reduce Tension Before Competitions

        6. Together, these five episodes guide you from anxiety to awareness, from control to connection — helping both you and your horse find true flow in training and competition.

         

        🧘‍♀️ Episode Quote:

        “Flow doesn’t come from trying harder — it comes from being present, patient, and connected. Both you and your horse deserve to feel calm and confident, no matter where you ride.”

         

        🐎 Resources & Mentions:

        • Positive reinforcement and clicker training principles
        • The Masterson Method (for physical relaxation support)
        • Groundwork and breathing routines for daily calm
        • Your previous From Nerves to Flow episodes

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          💬 Join the Conversation

          What’s one small thing you can do this week to help your horse — and yourself — feel more relaxed and connected?

          Share your thoughts with me on [Instagram/Facebook handle] or via [your website]. I’d love to hear what’s been working for you!

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          Happy rider, Healthy horse⎮dressage rider, dressage exercises, horse trigger point therapy, horse acupressureBy Sarah Martine - Veterinarian, dressage rider coach