Refining Groundwork with the Horse

Refining Ground Work with the Horse

Whenever I show up to work with a horse I go through a mental checklist assessing things such as:
Where is the horse’s mind today?
How is the horse looking/feeling in his postures, breathing, and movement?
What was the feeling or energy he offered when greeting me in his pasture or stall?
Does he seem mentally available as I ask to halter, lead, and stop at the gate?
If I ask for him to change his focus, "let go" of a mental distraction, decrease/increase his energy, step on/at a specific spot, or pause while I "fix" something else, is he getting defensive for my opinions or his he willing to try?

Human Perceptions of the Horse's Halt by Alternative Horsemanship

Perceptions of the Halt

Many humans view the halt as physical yielding or obedience. There is little or no concept of the difference between the feet not moving versus a horse mentally present and physically relaxed when asked to stop.

Horse & Rider Confidence- Bad Weather Opportunities

 Weather Opportunities 

 Often when weather conditions and circumstances are out of our control or are not ideal, we tend to shy away from spending time with our horses to avoid potential conflict or issues.  I find some of the most successful learning situations are when our surroundings are less than ideal. 

Misconceptions of Moving the Horse on a a Circle

 Misconceptions of a Circle 

One of the most misused "techniques" I have found is how people present asking the horse to move around a circle. 

Horse Tips with Pippin: Willingness to Adapt at the Mounting Block

#tipswithpippin This rescue Haflinger has an unknown past. As I've been re-educating this initially defensive, highly reactive, and distrustful horse, I want to share moments of value that affect all that follows in building his trust, try, and willingness.

Alternative Horsemanship with Samantha Harvey Radio Interview Quality Converstaions

Let Your Color Out Radio Show host Lindy Lewis interviews Samantha Harvey regarding her philosophies and approaches to improve the Equine Partnership. Topics Include: Containment Critique Making Mental Presence (human and horse) Patterns Goals and so much more. In-person Learning www.learnhorses.com Online Courses & Distance Learning www.remotehorsecoach.com