Useful Thoughts

I took time to contemplate today, trying to dig deep into the feelings that I was struggling to uncover. There has been some stress around the barn recently, and I was working to break out of my normal response to just such issues. I finally found it. I have to love what I do, including the ups and the DOWNS. No matter what happens, I have to love and embrace it.

I also rode Scout today and had a deeper understanding of position in balanced riding, as we trotted around the field bareback. A natural inclination has always been for me to tip forwards, opposite of what is correct when riding with a saddle. So today I worked hard at keeping my upper body behind my hips, and his trot was so smooth, even as he cruised at a fast pace. I also found some more clarity on the subject of tracking up and energy, in the ability to direct the horse and influence his evasions and aversions to the rein aids. It isn’t in the hands, it is in the horse’s energy. Traditional dressage tells you the horse has to be forward and that correctness comes from behind, and it is true, but muddy. There isn’t much more detailed information than that. But the key is in the horse’s tracking. When the horse tracks up properly they are forward, through and the rein aids make perfect sense. When the horse is allowed to work without tracking properly he wiggles all over the place, is up and down, the posture, bend and balance all go crazy. Tracking, tracking, tracking.

More later when I’m not so tired.