Preventing Horse Burnout in Each of the Five Elements

In this month’s regular newsletter I discussed how relaxation time is crucial to helping your horse avoid burnout. Of course, relaxation can mean something different to every horse. Knowing your horse’s five element personality type can help you determine the best way to help him relax.

To give you a jump start on designing the perfect environment for your horse’s relaxation, here’s a quick description of each five element personality type and the types of activities each would find relaxing:

FIRE: The fire horse thrives on attention and love. The more stimulation and attention he gets, the happier he is. He absolutely hates to be bored. To relax the fire horse, give him a day of grooming and pampering. He’ll be thrilled with all the admiration and be ready to return to work with a good attitude.

WOOD: The wood horse is the ultimate competitor. He loves physical activity and new challenges, so don’t bore him by leaving him in a dull pasture with nothing to do. To relax the wood horse, change his work schedule and haul him somewhere new. If he’s normally a jumper, give him some variety by working cows or taking him out on a vigorous trail ride. He’ll thrive on the variety and then be ready to get back into regular training.

EARTH: The earth horse wants to have a regular routine and be appreciated for his work. He also loves food. The ultimate day of relaxation for the earth horse is to spend time in the pasture grazing, swatting flies, and being in the company of other horses. A quiet day of rest nourishes the earth horse and ensures that he’ll be ready to return to his regular routine refreshed and revitalized.

METAL: The metal horse is all business. When he’s working, he’s a perfectionist and tries to do everything just right but when he’s not working he wants to be left alone. A metal horse’s perfect day of relaxation is to hang out in the pasture with the freedom to do whatever he chooses. He may enjoy the company of other horses but may not interact with them. His motto is, “Don’t bug me.” If you give the metal horse enough alone time, he’ll be happy to perform for you whenever you ask.

WATER: The water horse is a beautiful performer when he overcomes his fear and learns to trust his handlers. He likes to learn but can’t be pushed too hard or he will panic. A relaxing day for the water horse would include learning some new skills in a controlled environment where he feels safe. Introducing new skills and elements in safe conditions keeps the water horse engaged and interested, preventing boredom with his regular routine.