Recently I revealed My stupidest horse training mistake, ever. The response from readers was overwhelmingly positive, many wrote to thank me for sharing the harrowing story. A few had been through similar experiences, and were able to form lasting partnerships with their formerly traumatized horses, which was encouraging. So, I talked about it some more, here, along with the mention of some of my favorite authors on the animal psychology subject.

My friend Vicky Kaseorg was so impressed upon by the story of my horse's apparent terror of something that was harmless to her, that she made mention of it in her insightful Christian blog here - Fighting the Wrong Enemies.

I wish I could say that Allie and I have conquered this little problem and moved on to greater things, but that's not the case. It's pretty slow going when you're in it alone, and I've learned the hard way that getting "help" from an "expert" can sometimes be worse than no help at all, but that's a whole 'nother tale. In the meantime, here's the reply I sent to a brave soul who did write and ask the obvious question - "So, did you get it solved already?"

 

You see, creative work causes us to secrete dopamine, a hormone that can make us feel absorbed and fulfilled without feeling manic. This is in sharp contrast to the fight-or-flight mechanism, which is associated with hysteria hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Research indicates that we're most creative when we're happy and relaxed, and conversely, that we can steer our brains into this state by undertaking a creative task. 

 

To get a dopamine "hit," make something that pushes you to the furthest edge of your ability, where you're not only focused but learning and perfecting skills. Cooking an unfamiliar dish will do the trick, as will perfecting a new clogging routine. At first, depending on how addicted to mania you happen to be, the excitement-grubbing part of your brain won't want to stop obsessing about over-the-top experiences. It will cling to its fantasies about the next huge thrill, its fears of Suicide Tuesday. Keep creating.  

 

As you persist, your brain will eventually yield to the state psychologists call mindfulness. Your emotions will calm, even if you're physically and mentally active. You won't notice happiness when it first appears, because in true presence, the mind's frantic searching stops. In its place arises a fascination with what's occurring here and now. Though this feeling is subtle, it's the opposite of dull. It's infinitely varied and exquisite. 

 

The aftermath of a creative surge, especially one that involves a new skill, is a sense of accomplishment and increased self-efficacy-which psychologists recognize as an important counter to depression. Instead of a Suicide Tuesday crash, you're left with the happy fatigue of someone who is building strength. 

 

Pay attention to this process, and you'll see that the motivation to be here now will gradually grow stronger than the cultural pressure to seek excitement. You'll find yourself increasingly able to tune in to the delights of the present even when you're not actively creating. When this happens, you'll be on your way to genuine happiness: abundant, sustainable delight in the beautiful moments of ordinary life."  Read the rest here