hooldusreiim
Hooldusreiim, also known as "holding reins" or "reining back," refers to a traditional Estonian folk practice involving the symbolic or ritualistic control of horses, particularly during festivals, ceremonies, or cultural events. The term originates from the Estonian words *hooldus* (care or guardianship) and *reiim* (reins), emphasizing the act of managing or restraining a horse with reins.
This practice is often associated with the Estonian *Kanepi* or *Vana-Kanepi* festival, held in the village of
The tradition reflects Estonia’s deep historical connection to horses, which were essential for transportation, farming, and
Modern interpretations of hooldusreiim often appear in cultural festivals, where participants—both locals and visitors—learn about traditional