In this episode, we delve into the importance of the body-mind connection with equine interactions. Host Mary Debono shares insights on harnessing this powerful link to improve your relationship with your horse and enhance your overall riding experience.

Key topics include:

1. Understanding the bidirectional nature of the body-mind connection
2. Practical tips for managing anxiety and increasing confidence
3. The importance of presence and awareness in horsemanship
4. Simple exercises to improve body awareness and relaxation for both rider and horse
5. Leveraging positive memories to anchor beneficial emotional states
6. How horses perceive and respond to our internal states
7. Simple strategies for breaking habitual tension patterns

You'll hear actionable strategies to cultivate a stronger sense of presence, manage anxiety more effectively, and create a more harmonious partnership with your horse.

Key Takeaways

1. The body-mind connection is bidirectional and inseparable.
2. Horses are highly attuned to our internal states and physical tension.
3. Cultivating curiosity about anxiety can help dissipate its effects.
4. Simple awareness exercises can dramatically improve your horsemanship.
5. Positive visualization can anchor beneficial emotional states.
6. Aim for a relaxed, yet responsive state for you and your horse.
7. Presence and mindfulness enhance the horse-human bond.

Resources:

💥Learn how the Feldenkrais Method can help improve your seat, position, and balance on your horse! Free rider videos masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/rider 💥

Email mary@marydebono.com

All information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical, veterinary, or professional training advice. Always use extreme caution when interacting with horses.

About the Host:

Mary Debono is a pioneer in animal and human wellness, blending her expertise as an international clinician, best-selling author, and certified Feldenkrais Method® practitioner. With over three decades of experience, Mary developed Debono Moves, a groundbreaking approach that enhances the performance, well-being, and partnership of horses and their human companions.

Recognizing the profound connection between equine and human movement, Mary's innovative approach draws from the Feldenkrais Method®, tailored specifically for the equestrian world. Her methods have helped horses and humans:

• Improve athletic ability and performance
• Enhance confidence and reduce anxiety
• Reduce physical limitations and discomfort
• Deepen the horse-human bond

Mary's flagship online program, "Move with Your Horse," offers equestrians a unique opportunity to experience the benefits of Feldenkrais® while also learning her signature hands-on work for horses. This transformative approach has helped riders and their equine partners achieve harmony, both in and out of the saddle.

As a speaker and educator, Mary has touched the lives of equestrians across the globe, empowering them to unlock their full potential through mindful movement and enhanced body awareness.

Discover the power of Debono Moves and transform your equestrian journey. Visit https://www.marydebono.com/you-and-your-horse to learn more about Mary's unique work.

Because you and your horse deserve to feel great. Together.

In this episode, Mary Debono shares the unexpected benefits of Equine Debono Moves for both horses and humans. Inspired by Mary's studies in the Feldenkrais MethodⓇ, Debono Moves was originally designed to help horses move more freely and reduce tension. But as you'll hear, this gentle hands-on work can be a two-way street of healing and connection.

Mary recounts a recent experience with a Trakehner mare that exemplifies the deep, almost magical connection that can occur during a Debono Moves session. She explains how the practice requires equestrians to be fully present, creating a state of shared awareness with their horses. This mindfulness not only enhances the effectiveness of the method for the horse but also serves as a form of mindfulness meditation and stress relief for the human.

The episode delves into the science behind why this connection feels so good, touching on concepts like neuroplasticity and the power of living in the present moment. Mary illustrates how the skills developed through Debono Moves - presence, attentiveness, and adaptability - translate into other areas of life, improving overall well-being and relationships.

Listeners will learn about the wide applicability of this technique, from young horses to seniors, and how it can address various issues including tension release, improved athletic performance, and recovery from injury. Mary also shares practical tips for listeners to begin incorporating elements of this practice into their daily interactions with their horses.

Whether you're a competitive equestrian looking to improve your horse's performance, a recreational horse enthusiast seeking a deeper bond with your mount, or simply someone interested in innovative approaches to mindfulness and well-being, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Happy listening!

Resources:

💥Learn how the Feldenkrais Method can help improve your seat, position, and balance on your horse! Free rider videos masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/rider 💥

Email mary@marydebono.com

All information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical, veterinary, or professional training advice. Always use extreme caution when interacting with horses.

In this episode of Easier Movement, Happier Horses, Mary Debono continues her exploration of how to enhance your horse's learning and movement capabilities.

Building on the principles of the Feldenkrais Method, Mary discusses the importance of changing the context during practice sessions to help both you and your horse better integrate new skills.

By varying the environment and position or activity, both you and your horse can experience more effective learning, leading to sustained improvements in movement, emotional well-being, and overall resilience.

Mary provides practical examples and encourages listeners to experiment with these ideas in their everyday routines.

Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or just beginning your journey, this episode offers valuable tips to help you and your horse move more easily and happily together.

Key Takeaways:

1. Varying Context: Changing the environment and context during training helps solidify new movement patterns for you and your horse.
2. Feldenkrais Insights: The Feldenkrais Method teaches that learning is more effective when practiced in different contexts, making it easier to integrate into daily life.
3. Improved Resilience: By practicing movements in various settings, you can help your horse become more resilient to stress and better able to adapt to new situations.
4. Practical Application: Experiment with different contexts to reinforce learning and improve your horse's movement and emotional well-being.
   
   Resources:
   
   💥Learn how the Feldenkrais Method can help improve your seat, position, and balance on your horse! Free rider videos masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/rider 💥
   
   Email mary@marydebono.com
   
   All information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical, veterinary, or professional training advice. Always use extreme caution when interacting with horses.