We hear a lot about “burnout” these days when it comes to work, but it can also happen when it comes to our horses. Depending on how you approach your time with horses, both humans and horses can feel burnout. It’s something we want to avoid, though; no one wants to end up feeling like they don’t want to visit the barn. Enter energy intelligence.
What is Energy Intelligence?
You may have heard of emotional intelligence and the soft skills required to build great relationships, such as trust, connection and kindness. All of these are crucial in horsemanship, but the next level work is “energy intelligence.”
Simply put, energy intelligence is the awareness of your own energy resources and the ability to influence your energy output in life and work.
As Nikola Tesla said, “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.” While emotional intelligence is mostly about relationships and communication, energy intelligence is often about how we each govern ourselves and show up for life.
When you have more energy, you are often clearer and have more motivation, which then creates better relationships and performance. Your energy doesn’t just impact communication, it’s a form of communication.
Applying to Horses
In the horse world, other people assume that you love your equines all the time. Most of us do until we don’t—and then we need a break from mucking, riding, showing, or working with clients as trainers or instructors.
This can be an unspoken issue. Many can suffer in silence because of these expectations that a “horse girl” always wants to live and breathe riding. Yet when you’re exhausted and depleted, your interest can become diminished and—more importantly—your safety as well.
You’ve probably heard stories of people who rode when they shouldn’t have and paid the price in some way. When you’re too tired, it’s a signpost that you need to respect your own energy resources so burnout can be prevented.No matter how much you love horses, it’s still possible to need a rest from endless feeding, mucking, riding or showing to prevent burnout. Photo by Shelley Paulson
It’s the same for your horse. You probably know not to push him, but are still tempted to push yourself—and horses feel this as well.
They can sense and feel your physical state as well as your emotional, mental, and spiritual states. They know and read your energy, but do you? Ultimately, the goal is more connection with your horse, and that comes down to energy intelligence.
Happier and Healthier
Brene Brown says: “I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”
This is true for horses as well, and when they are happier and healthier, they’re more productive and connected. One of the ways you can value them is to adjust your energy when you are with them to be authentic, congruent and joyful. However, it’s much easier to do this when you are rested, clear, and present, which is when you are managing your energy well.One way you can value your horse is to be rested and present, which happens when you are managing your energy well. Photo by Shelley Paulson
You can also note when your horse exhibits enjoyment and engagement and has a healthy flow of energy in his work and with his herd. Often making adjustments to his basic needs, such as friends, food, water, shelter, and exercise can help him feel safer, more rested, and content. This will improve his energy and leads to him to being a better version of himself, which in turn helps your relationship with him. Ensure your horse’s healthy flow of energy through such things as careful herdmate selection, which help him feel safe and content. Photo by Shelley Paulson
Becoming Aware
Energy intelligence begins with awareness. We all need to take conscious pauses to reflect.
Ideally, you do this each day at some point, whether in meditation or through journaling. It’s also especially important before you enter physical space with your horse.
Some questions you can ask during this reflection are below; you can ask these about both yourself and your horse.
◆ What does it feel like to have energy? When do I have the most or the least?
◆ How do I know when my energy is flowing well? How do I know when it’s stuck?
◆ What gives me energy?
◆ What depletes or drains my energy?
◆ How do I replenish when my energy is gone?Plentiful food and water throughout the day helps both people and animals gain energy, as opposed to draining it. Photo by ccestep/Adobe Stock
After this reflection, you can list specifics about your gains and drains for you and your horse. Here are some examples.
Gains:
◆ Healthy food
◆ Restful sleep
◆ Enough water throughout the day
◆ Time spent with loved ones
◆ Main love language is met (see the book The Five Love Languages for more)
Drains:
◆ Being interrupted
◆ Fights and disagreement
◆ Lifting too much and over-working
◆ Feeling ignored or not seen
◆ Not being asked permission
Key Takeaway
There is still much more to explore in this space, so I’ve created an energy intelligence assessment tool for horse lovers/equestrians. If you’d like the document, email me through my website and I’d be happy to provide it.
Until then, remember that increasing your fulfillment through energy intelligence will create sustainable success for you and your horse. You can prevent burnout and grow your deep love for these majestic creatures.
This article about energy intelligence appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!