In a simplistic way to describe karma, it is the relationship between cause and effect. This way of thinking is a powerful asset both in life and when showing horses.
Much of horse showing relates to the horse and exhibitor’s mindset.
Following these five simple laws of karma in the show pen can improve your attitude, performance and overall experience.
1) The Law of Growth
Author Roy T Bennett once said, “When things do not go your way, remember that every challenge — every adversity — contains within it the seeds of opportunity and growth.” Every challenge encountered in the show pen is an opportunity to grow. Learning from previous rides or patterns makes an exhibitor and their horse a better team. Struggles in the pen can often be discouraging, but developing the ability to grow from hardships is an invaluable skill.
2) The Law of Focus
Focus is key when it comes to executing the perfect ride. Letting go of negativity or stress in the arena helps an exhibitor ride to the best of their ability. Be prepared for the class and tune out any negative distractions. Don’t be afraid if something happens in the pen, fix the primary issue then continue forward. Taking the time to channel nervous energy into focus improves an exhibitor’s overall experience of showing.
3) The Law of Patience and Reward
Patience is a challenging skill to master. Sometimes when showing, it is easy to forget that learning a class and connecting with a horse takes a significant amount of time. The first steps to understanding patience in the show pen are fostering a positive attitude and setting goals. Negativity is not conducive to your ultimate objective. All goals, no matter how big or small, are achievable through patience and perseverance. Practice patience with both your horse and yourself when showing. In the end, you will be rewarded.
4) The Law of Connection
This law states that it is not about the end product, but the journey that makes up the entire experience. Whether your goal is to win at the world show or just to enter a new class, appreciate every step of the way. Each exhibitor has their equestrian aspirations; it is vital not to become engulfed in the aspect of winning and forget the beauty of progress. Everything in the universe is connected. Learn to appreciate the small accomplishments. These actions will eventually lead to your ultimate goal.
5) The Law of Responsibility
When showing horses, it is important to remember the significance of responsibility. Equestrians are not robots; we are humans. Sometimes exhibitors make mistakes, such as forgetting to back in a pattern. We can learn from mistakes if responsibility is taken for the action. Placing blame on the horse, trainer or a friend does not generate a positive environment or attitude. Taking responsibility for mistakes and learning from them is an essential aspect of showing.
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“What goes around comes around” is the basic concept of how karma functions within society. Spread positive energy and good actions at horse shows, and you will receive it in return. Through these laws of karma, exhibitors can further develop their skills both in and out of the show pen.
About the Author – Cat Guenther is a dedicated equestrian and junior in high school. When Cat is not at the barn, she focuses on her small businesses “Behind the Bit Tack Sales” and “Tack to Dye for.” Cat has four horses, a miniature horse, and a zonkey. She hopes to attend Michigan State University and study to become an equine veterinarian. Cat is extremely excited to start the all-around classes in 2018 with her new equine partner-in-crime, Royal Invite.
