Being a yoga practitioner for over 25 years I realized that the foundation of my yoga practice was not dissimilar to riding. I have been a student of Alternative Horsemanship with Samantha Harvey for about 10 years. I remember the profound moment that connected my yoga practice with my riding.
We were working on correct usage of body to communicate clearly with my horse. As Sam made offered instructions and made adjustments to my seat and leg position, along with hands-on manipulation of my legs, I realized the yoga asnas were key. I went back and reviewed past videos of me riding bareback. Immediately I recognized my triggers, how my body moved with anticipation, and how my horse reacted to the unintentional language I was projecting. By becoming aware of my habits and patterns, I could adjust my body, and create new balanced behaviors, allowing me to have better communication with my horse and quality rides.
Through the use of props and the practice of listening to your body, the student reawaken their intentions.
My goal is to share fundamental principles of how through slight adjustments in the movement of your body improve your balance, communication, and create less aches and pains after the ride.