“Forget resolutions — how about real results with your horse? – Help Us Spread The Word” – Email 26

Hello lovely, 

Abi (Equine Physio) here. I’ve been thinking about what 2026 really means for us and our horses. Because by now, most of us have probably contemplated the whole ‘new year, new me’ thing… and well, one week into January it’s already starting to feel slightly less optimistic – especially when your horse hasn’t got the memo.

So let’s ditch the nonsense and ask a better question: what meaningful shift could actually make the biggest difference in your relationship with your horse this year?

One small but powerful thing I keep coming back to is this: most horses aren’t being difficult, they’re just being very, very honest. When you start to understand why a horse behaves the way they do – through learning theory, psychology, and the difference between pain, stress and confusion – it changes everything, almost overnight. Confusion turns into curiosity, frustration into clarity.

I see this again and again in my physio work, once people really understand why a weakness exists or why a repetitive injury keeps occurring, everything tends to fall into place and progress is made… Physically, and very often behaviourally too.

That’s exactly what the Online Horse Psychology course is about. Not quick fixes. Not training “hacks”. Just a clearer, kinder way of understanding the horse in front of you.

It all makes sense when it comes to training. When we don’t understand what’s happening, many of us go very quickly to frustration (which we all know never helps when working with horses). But when you understand why something is happening, you naturally start looking for a different, more thoughtful solution. Swapping panic for problem solving.

This course brings together horse psychology and real-life training to create a scientific, kind approach that actually works – whether you’re working with a young horse, trying to make sense of behaviour, or simply wanting to deepen your relationship – all in a genuinely friendly, supportive environment. But don’t just take my word for it.

Tuesday evenings are relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of time for questions and real-world discussion. And if life is busy (because, well… life), each session is recorded and available to watch for seven days, so you can stay part of it without pressure.  And special bonus … I’ll be making an appearance on the second week which is the Pain or Brain lesson so you can Ask Me Anything (well, equine physio wise!) 

The next course starts Tuesday 13th January at 8pm and runs for eight weeks, and you’re very welcome to join us if it feels like the right fit for you and your horse.

There’s extra support too, including a WhatsApp group where you can chat and discuss ideas with peers. And, if it’s relevant for you, the course is worth 6 BHS CPD points – all working out at less than £25 per session.

If this feels like the year you want to change the way you understand horses,  we’d love to see you there. 

Lots of Love,

 Abi & the IH Team 

Win a Hardback Copy of Drawn to Horses 

Intelligent Horsemanship Trainer Sue Palmer (The Horse Physio) is offering three readers the chance to win a hardback copy of her beautiful new book, ‘Drawn to Horses: A Mother’s Art and a Daughter’s Reflections’.

This thoughtfully produced book brings together gentle reflections on life with horses and a series of charming black-and-white sketches by Sue’s mother, Sarah Brown. It’s a book to keep, return to — or to give as a meaningful gift to a fellow horse lover. 

To be entered into the prize draw, simply sign up to Sue’s mailing list using this link.  

Everyone who signs up and answers the question below correctly will be automatically entered into the draw.

Question: Who created the sketches in Drawn to Horses?

Three winners will be chosen at random after the closing date.

Closing date: 31st Jan 2026

If you’d like to find out more about the book — or prefer to buy a copy rather than enter the draw — you can view Drawn to Horses here.

Like to Learn in Person?

Special Opportunity for Scottish IH Fans!

If you enjoy getting out, meeting like-minded horse people and learning hands-on, you might also like to join our IH Trainers Jessica, Julia and Hannah for the first Intelligent Horsemanship Scotland workshop this January.

When: Saturday 17th January, 10.00am–4.00pm

Where: Totleywells Equestrian, South Queensferry, EH52 6QJ

Group size: Limited to 15 participants, with small-group guidance throughout the day

This event will introduce and reinforce the values of Intelligent Horsemanship, with an emphasis on goal-setting, through a mix of discussion, demonstration and practical work. It’s intended to be a safe and supportive space, with a focus on breathing, body language and intention. Participants will begin by working together to observe and practise correct techniques before progressing to working with the horses.

It’s a relaxed, confidence-building day covering core IH groundwork, long-lining and practical skills, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and learn in a friendly, supportive environment.