What to do when you see a Calming Signal

A yawn is a common Calming Signal Brandy demonstrates

People have asked, does a Calming Signal mean we should stop what we’re doing? My answer: Recognizing horses' emotions doesn't mean never asking them to think something through, try something new, or step out of their comfort zone. It means we notice when the horse is getting stressed, so we don't push his anxiety up to the level where cognitive reasoning shuts down and he is heading for flight or fight. Instead, acknowledge Calming Signals by pausing, slowing down, maybe adjusting your request. This reassures your horse you are looking out for him, and helps him stay engaged with you in a positive way so you get faster learning, more trust, and better reliability.

Example: You take a child to swimming lessons, and she says she’s scared. Do you say, “Never mind” and go home? Or do you toss her in the deep end? Neither, of course! With an anxious horse, you encourage Investigative Behavior, with you as moral support, so he can learn what he needs to know to overcome his fear.

Example: A child says math is too hard, he can’t do it. What do you do? Break it into tiny steps so that he can be successful at each step and confident enough to try the next. Same with horses. The number of steps needed will vary for each individual, but usually the more the better.

Example: You tell your physical therapist or personal trainer that what she asked you to do is too hard. Does she say, “Forget it”? Or “too bad, do it anyway?” More likely she makes sure it is not painful, and evaluates whether she should adjust her request. The better we protect horses from unnecessary stress, the better they cope with unavoidable stress when it happens.