1.
A system of gentle circular movements, lifts and slides and releases that increase body awareness and focus, thus improving understanding and confidence. They also work to reduce tension, pain, fear and nervousness. The ttouches work at a cellular level to improve communication through the body, thus for example horses which have poor circulation to the legs, or tend to stumble over things because they don’t seem to know where their feet are, can be helped by this method. Releasing muscular tension and loosening up stiff joints can help competition horses, especially those involved in endurance riding. Older horses benefit hugely from a short session of ttouch built into their daily grooming or checking routine.
2. Ground work (in hand)
Designed to improve balance, self-carriage, self-control and fine motor skills in preparation for work under saddle. We use poles in a variety of arrangements to help the horse to flex and bend, and to think about what she is doing with her feet. Walking on and halting amongst other exercises help the horse with coordination and balance, aiding self carriage and correct use of the back and hind legs. We use particular leading methods to help the horse carry herself properly without leaning on or pulling away from the handler.
3. Riding with awareness (exercises under saddle)
These exercises enable horse and rider to achieve harmony and confidence by building on understanding and feel. Asking the horse to do some of the ground work exercises whilst being ridden brings a new challenge to the horse and rider partnership. The horse needs to learn to re-balance with the weight of the rider in addition to looking after himself as he has learned to do during the in-hand work.
We also provide the opportunity to ride without a bridle and experience the freedom and trust that this can give.