Part 1: “Name It to Tame It”—My Journey into Emotional Intelligence

I recall striding into the pasture, the grass crunching beneath my boots, my thoughts racing with worries about an upcoming work deadline. No matter how I tried, I couldn’t shake a nagging feeling of anxiety. I spotted my horse, Remy, grazing in the distance. Determined to appear calm, I forced a smile and approached him—even though my chest felt tight with stress.

Remy lifted his head, took a small step back, and then let out a big yawn, as if trying to release some of the tension in the air. That moment stopped me in my tracks. I remembered the phrase “name it to tame it” and became aware of my need to apply it in this moment with Remy.

What Does “Name It to Tame It” Mean?

This concept suggests that when we name our emotions—“I’m anxious,” “I’m excited,” or “I’m stressed”—they become more manageable. Speaking the words “I’m anxious” didn’t erase my worries, but it gave me a sense of control. My shoulders loosened a bit, like the tension had finally been acknowledged.

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters

• Self-Awareness: By labeling my feelings, I stopped my anxiety from running rampant.

• Self-Regulation: Once I recognized how I felt, I could take focused, calming breaths.

• Connection with Others: Being transparent with myself allows me to interact more genuinely—with friends, family, and, of course, Remy.

With each slow inhale, I felt more grounded. Stepping forward again, I noticed Remy lowered his head and relaxed, sensing the shift in my energy. That day, I realized the simple act of noticing my emotions is absolutely integral to a calmer connection with my sensitive, intuitive horse.