Posted on: 29 FEBRUARI 2024
When I think about my structure: "The Bitless Art of Riding", 3 keywords come into my mind.
Liberty
Liberty has always played an important role in my life, and I don't know exactly where that need came from. I wanted to free animals that were locked up, and the happiness that came with it after liberation also made me intensely happy. I also see this joy in my horses, and I experience that this creates a very strong bond. Familiarising the horse with human presence in freedom, being able to touch him with confidence everywhere, is essential for me. The horse becomes more patient and enjoys the touches. Making him comfortable with a halter and asking him to give his hooves freely; offering him choices strengthens the horse's personality. Simply meeting the horse and enjoying each other's presence is the basis for the well-being of a happy horse.
Lightness
Calmness, straightness and balance lead to lightness. Every rider should strive for this. Lightness should always be the intended goal, even when training with a cavesal® around the horse's head, with a lead rope or reins when doing groundwork or while riding. The goal is to start the horse in freedom; we help the horse get into balance with the reins and we finish again in freedom. This is the only real proof that the horse is balanced and moving lightly.
Love
Love is giving the horse time and space.
Respecting the horse's age.
The will to keep the horse comfortable in body and mind as it ages.
Making sure your horse is comfortable when you are not there.
The horse is not a bicycle, it is a member of the family.
And dare to look not only at your horse's behaviour, but also at your own. Dare to look in the mirror and learn the necessary lessons. If you want your horse to give you his full potential, the best thing you can do is to give your horse dignity and love.
The journey is long but so beautiful.
