Union with horse and rider
I want to thank all the ladies that attended our workshop held at Country Acre Stables (Central Alberta). Kicking off our boots and settling onto our mats, we focused on breath work and movement of the body to help achieve union with the horse. Taking what we learned on the ground onto the horse, combined with simple riding techniques, students were offered the experience of fluid movement in the saddle and bare back.
Both yoga and riding integrate breathing with moving in rhythm. Riding is a rhythmic activity in which the rider flows synchronously and in concert with the movements of the horse. To ‘flow’ with the horse, the rider must breathe and move in a relaxed and consistent rhythm. Through specific poses and allowing the natural rhythm of the breath, yoga brings heightened awareness to the movement of our body.
Yoga teaches you to allow, listen closely and gently coax, making it the perfect discipline to identify and explore your limitations – physically and mentally. Riding involves development in many skills. The ability to work beyond your limits can be honed through your yoga practice, then applied to your riding. Thus, creating ease and confidence for both horse and rider to learn these skills!
