Can't see the forest for the trees

​Meaning: If you can't see the forest for the trees, you can't see the whole situation clearly because you're looking too closely at small details, or because you're too closely involved. When helping people with their horses I take extra care to improve the relationship, and at times this is the only real problem. I don’t even like the word “problem”. There are no problem horses, only problem riders. “Buck Brannaman”But lets look closer at that well known quote as well - lets say you are doing everything right, you are riding and working with this horse as you have done successfully with other horses your whole life. But with this one, you are just not making progress. You feel you do not have a connection and struggle to get your horse to respond to your requests. Many, oh so many have sold horses for these very reasons. But the fact is, you take yourself with you, wherever you go. Ok, enough with the quotes!But what guarantees do you have that the next horse you take on will be any different? Whether it be after a winter off, or when you go to attempt something new like showing or trail riding, if you haven’t made an effort to learn how to communicate your requests to this horse IN A WAY THEY WILL UNDERSTAND, you may end up with a real road block in your progress, and in your fun!The reason I emphasize the need for communication is not just to improve a riders style or methods, but to learn to read your horse. Sometimes when we are close - especially those who keep their horses at home, we forget to step back and look at them with fresh eyes.Are you asking something that perhaps they have never done before,or they are not sure what you are asking? Perhaps you need to ask the question in a different way. Is there some pain or stiffness that they are harboring, which could mean a change in attitude?Does ALL your tack fit correctly and is it the best choice for what you are trying to accomplish? Or is it just what you have on hand so you are using it. These are the types of things that I address when working with horses and riders. I have helped so many people to look at things from a different angle, or recognize issues that the owner thought was normal and work through them. Tack and the pressure points it can cause a sensitive horse is an easy fix if you know what to look for. Sport Horse Therapeutic Services covers all the bases. AND THE BEST PART.... Is that I will work with you, teach you how to communicate with your horse, how to palpate his muscles to discover tension or strain, learn stretches and exercises to increase range of motion or strengthen weak areas. Learn how to choose the best saddle for your horses build so that you have the knowledge to keep him comfortable now and in the future. Valuable information is best shared and I strive to be sure owners completely understand and utilize what I teach. EMPOWER YOURSELF! AND FIX THE HORSE YOU HAVE!