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In the human,
the mouth is linked to the limbic system, the area of the brain
that is considered to be the control centre for the emotions
and the gateway to learning. (Daniel Goleman, 1997) .
This emotional connection is consistent with observations made
by internationally recognized equine trainers and therapists.
Many horses improve in their behavior and the ability to operate
in a calm and focused mode once tension in the mouth is reduced.
Working around the mouth, both inside and out also stimulates
the salivary glands, which in turn, trigger the relaxation-promoting
parasympathetic nervous system. This quietens the sympathetic
nervous system, which triggers the “fight, flight or freeze”
response.
If dental imbalances are not addressed, tension in the mouth
will return.
Horses that have oral discomfort will be more dry mouthed and
therefore less relaxed
both in day to day existence and also under saddle.
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