Easier Movement, Happier Horses

Send Mary a text! What if the way to connect more deeply with your horse or dog wasn't by doing more—but simply by noticing more?In this episode of Easier Movement, Happier Life, Mary Debono explores how mindfulness, the simple act of noticing your present experience, can radically transform your life and the lives of your animals.You'll learn how slowing down—even just for a moment—can awaken you to new possibilities. Discover how mindful movement, shared awareness, and practices like Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles can regulate your nervous system, deepen your animal connection, and bring more joy into everyday life.This episode is an invitation to savor your life instead of rushing through it—and to create a profound, felt sense of connection with your dog or horse that words can't always reach.

Send Mary a text! What if a simple, mindful touch could improve your dog's or horse's movement, comfort, and even emotional well-being? In this episode, Mary Debono shares how to use your hands and your heart to do a gentle “scan”—a profoundly simple practice that awakens awareness, fosters mobility, and strengthens your bond.You'll learn:Why your hands act like a kinesthetic mirror for your animal's bodyHow curiosity (not correction) supports nervous system changeWhat to feel for: structure, temperature, response, symmetryWhy these moments of shared awareness build trust and connectionHow CLTMs (special receptors) create calm and deepen the bondWhen a quiet pause may be the most powerful part of your sessionWhether you're working with a horse, dog, or cat, this episode will show you how slowing down and tuning in can help your animal move better—and feel better—without needing to “fix” them.Resources:Grab your FREE videos on Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles to help your dog.

Send Mary a text! Confusion isn't failure—it's a signal that your brain (or your animal's) is learning something new. In this episode, Mary Debono shares how embracing confusion can improve your movement, mindset, and connection with your horse or dog. Key TakeawaysConfusion is a natural and valuable part of the learning process.Your nervous system—and your animal's—needs time and space to process new information.Novelty and variation disrupt habitual patterns, leading to more efficient movement.Asking “How can this feel easier?” can guide you through confusion with grace.The key is not to fix but to support—whether it's your dog, your horse, or yourself.Allowing for confusion builds patience, compassion, and a deeper connection.Resources:Grab your FREE videos on Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles to help your dog.

Send Mary a text! Would you like to use your imagination to deepen your connection with your horse or dog? In this episode, you'll learn how to use your imagination to not only deepen your connection with your horse or dog but also increase the effectiveness of bodywork and training sessions. Key Takeaways: Your brain doesn't strongly distinguish between vivid imagination and physical experience—"what you imagine, you embody."Visualizing a connection of light with your animal creates real physiological changes in your body that your animal can detect.Animals constantly read the world through somatic and energetic cues, sensing your tension, intention, and inner state.This practice creates a "connection loop"—a feedback cycle where your shifts cause your animal to respond, deepening the bond.Intentionally sending loving energy increases heart coherence, which science shows can influence those nearby.This approach helps bring love back to the center when worry, fear or expectations might be pushing it aside.The visualization "turbocharges" hands-on work like Debono Moves, creating a synergistic effect.Even just one minute of this practice can reduce your stress and invite new possibilities for both you and your animal.Resources:Grab your FREE videos on Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles to help your dog.

Send Mary a text! In this episode, Mary Debono shares how cultivating resonance—a felt sense of connection between you and your animal—can profoundly transform your relationship with your horse or dog.Whether through hands-on Debono Moves, quiet companionship, or simply breathing together, resonance helps you tune in more deeply to your animal—and yourself. Mary explains how subtle shifts in attention, gratitude, and gentle support can activate your animal's nervous system in a healing, trust-building way.Through real-life stories, including working with an aging Australian Shepherd and liberty play with her beloved horse Breeze, Mary reveals how resonance can become a guidepost for more meaningful interaction. You'll also learn practical ways to begin cultivating this quiet, powerful connection today—and why it's one of the most valuable things you can share with your animal.Resources:Grab your FREE videos on Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles to help your dog.

Send Mary a text! Check out our Move with Your Horse Foundations group coaching program.

Send us a textDiscover why movement efficiency is crucial for humans, horses, and dogs alike. Learn how maladaptive movement patterns create wear and tear, while efficient movement reduces joint damage, increases power, and simply feels better—leading to more vitality and range of motion for all species. Resources:Want freer, more comfortable hips? Check out our Smart, Supple Hips Feldenkrais series. Want to improve movement efficiency, comfort, and connection for both you and your horse? Check out our Move with Your Horse Foundations group coaching program.

Send us a textIn this episode, Mary Debono blends neuroscience, practical techniques, and compassionate understanding to give dog owners new tools for helping their anxious companions. By the end, you'll understand how to transform your relationship with your dog through physical and emotional connection, ultimately giving them the confidence to face challenges with calm assurance.Learn how Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles can reset your dog's nervous system, build confidence, and create new neural pathways – all through gentle, compassionate connection. Resources:Grab your FREE videos on Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles to help your dog.

Send us a textMary Debono addresses a common challenge faced by many horse owners: the herd-bound horse. Rather than using punitive methods that cause more fear, Mary shares innovative, humane, and effective ways to help horses feel secure when separated from their herd.She emphasizes the importance of recognizing this natural behavior and working with it rather than against it.The episode introduces several powerful practices:Connected Breathing: A foundational practice where you place your hands on your horse's ribcage and sense their breathing, creating a tactile conversation that promotes relaxation and deep connection.Heart-Centered Appreciation: Mary explains how focusing on feelings of love and gratitude for your horse can change your physiological state in ways your horse can detect, creating a calming effect.Rhythm Circles: A specific hands-on process that provides support and relief to the horse's soft tissues, deepening the sense of connection and safety.The episode also addresses the rider's confidence, emphasizing that your emotional state significantly impacts your horse. Mary recommends her FeldenkraisⓇ-based "Effortless Balanced Sitting Series" to help riders feel more secure in the saddle.Whether you have a herd-bound horse or a dog with anxiety (which will be covered in the next episode), these practices offer a compassionate, effective approach to building confidence and a deeper bond with your animal companion.Resources:Want to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series: https://tinyurl.com/balanced-sittingEffortless, Balanced Sitting: A FeldenkraisⓇ Movement Series  Get your free videos on Connected Breathing and Rhythm Circles with your horse.

Send us a textWhat if the key to helping your horse or dog move with ease wasn't about “fixing” them but connecting with them?In this episode, I challenge the idea of correction-based approaches and explain why true change happens through mindful support, not force. I introduce my Possibilities in Motion framework—a powerful yet simple way to connect with your animal, relieve tension, and gently guide them toward easier movement.You'll also hear the inspiring story of Zoey, a dog who wouldn't use her surgically repaired leg despite all traditional rehab efforts. The breakthrough? A simple yet profound shift in connection that helped her nervous system feel safe enough to change.This episode is for anyone who wants to deepen their bond with their animal and help them move with greater comfort, confidence, and joy—without force or frustration.Resources:Doors open in March! Join the waitlist for the next Move with Your Horse Foundations program and get your discount code!  https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse.

Send us a textDiscover how the Feldenkrais Method® and Debono Moves use gentle movements to help you, your horse, and your dog feel safer and more at ease. Learn how mindful movement engages the nervous system, reduces tension, and fosters confidence—without force. Tune in for simple ways to enhance well-being for all! Resources:Want to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series.Effortless, Balanced Sitting: A FeldenkraisⓇ Movement Series  ⬅️⬅️⬅️

Send us a textDiscover how developing body wisdom through the Feldenkrais MethodⓇ creates a natural bridge to deeper animal connection. Learn to trust your innate physical intelligence, release unnecessary tension, and become a more responsive, intuitive partner for your horses and dogs. Resources:Want to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series.Effortless, Balanced Sitting: A FeldenkraisⓇ Movement Series  ⬅️⬅️⬅️

Send us a textLearn how to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth in your journey with horses and dogs. Discover practical mindset shifts, movement strategies, and real-world examples that help you and your animals move better, feel better, and strengthen your bond together. Resources:Want to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series.Effortless, Balanced Sitting: A FeldenkraisⓇ Movement Series  ⬅️⬅️⬅️

Send us a textWant to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series.Effortless, Balanced Sitting: A FeldenkraisⓇ Movement Series  ⬅️⬅️⬅️ Discover how lasting change can happen instantly and effortlessly through the Feldenkrais Method. Learn why struggle isn't necessary for transformation, experience a mini-movement lesson, and hear inspiring stories of rapid, profound change in both humans and animals. Resources:

Send us a textIf you've been listening to this podcast for any length, you know that I've been on a mission to help you and your horse/dog improve movement, connection, and well-being for you and your animals.For quite a while now, I've been hosting two separate podcasts: "Easier Movement, Happier Horses" and "Easier Movement, Happier Dogs."After much thought, I've decided to bring both of these podcasts together into one unified space. Moving forward, all the great content you've loved from both shows will be available here, under the new name—Easier Movement, Happier Life: For You, Your Horses & Dogs. Want to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series. Effortless, Balanced Sitting: A FeldenkraisⓇ Movement Series  ⬅️⬅️⬅️Resources:

Send us a textWant to sit in a more balanced, secure way? Click here for all the details on our new series. The extra-early bird discount expires on Dec. 31, 2024, so act fast. It makes a great gift, too!

Send us a textDiscover how selecting a keystone practice like Feldenkrais can create positive chain reactions throughout your life. Learn how gentle movement sequences can improve your riding, sleep, emotional resilience, and creativity while building a foundation for lasting transformation.Key TakeawaysA keystone goal or practice creates positive chain reactions in multiple areas of lifeA consistent Feldenkrais practice makes an effective keystone practice Physical benefits include improved flexibility, coordination, and postureMental benefits include enhanced focus, concentration, decision-making abilities, and emotional resiliencePhysical changes can lead to broader life transformationsMary's upcoming Feldenkrais series will focus on balanced sitting which can improve how you ride Resources:

Send us a textDiscover how addressing your horse's entire body, especially back tension, can transform difficult hoof handling into a calm, cooperative experience. Learn gentle, effective practices that replace force with understanding, creating lasting positive change in your horse's hoof care routine. Key Takeaways: Resistance to hoof handling often stems from whole-body tension, particularly in the backTraditional forcing methods can create a cycle of increasing tension and resistanceGentle, supportive movements are more effective than forceful stretchingBuilding body awareness in both horse and handler is crucial for successPatience and consistency are essential for creating lasting changeDaily grooming routines provide opportunities to reinforce positive experiencesUnderstanding subtle tension signs helps prevent escalationThe approach improves overall horse-human partnership beyond hoof handlingResources:Mentioned in this episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/improving-a-horses-ability-to-hold-up-his-legs-for-hoof-trimming

Send us a textDiscover the four hallmarks of healthy movement that can improve athletic performance for you and your horse.  Learn how effortlessness, breathing, reversibility, and posture reveal physical and emotional states, leading to better communication and partnership with your horse. Resources:

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Discover how changing how you breathe can transform your interactions with your horse. Learn practical ways to calm an anxious horse or enliven a "lazy" one, plus a Feldenkrais-inspired quadrant breathing lesson that can enhance your seat and connection! You'll learn:Why tension in your breathing affects your horse's responsivenessHow your breathing can invoke a state of calm curiosity, which invites creativity and connection with your horseA Feldenkrais-inspired quadrant breathing exercise that can improve your seat, develop more precise weight aids, and create clearer communication with your horseWhether you're dealing with an anxious horse or struggling to create forward movement, this episode offers natural, effective solutions through the power of breath.Resources:

Feeling stuck in your horse routine? Discover practical, science-backed ways to refresh your horse time. From simple changes in daily habits to mindset shifts, learn how to reignite your passion and deepen your connection with your horse through novel experiences and mindful practices.Key TakeawaysSmall changes in routine can create a welcome shift in your nervous systemNon-habitual activities create new neural pathways and enhance awarenessMindset shifts can transform your horse experienceChallenging limiting beliefs about yourself and your horse opens new possibilitiesEngaging all senses deepens your awarenessPlayful approaches can reignite passion and joy with your horse Importance of aligning activities with personal valuesResources:

Let's take a journey into the future—but not with a time machine. Instead, we'll do a powerful mental exercise designed to help you shape the future you desire, whether it's improving your mobility, strengthening your relationship with your horse, or achieving new levels of well-being and connection.When we create a compelling “future memory,” it  gives your brain a roadmap to make better choices today, leading to long-term success. By imagining the feelings, movements, and experiences you want in your future, you empower yourself to take actionable steps now. This episode is filled with practical advice, inspiration, and an invitation to step into a life of new possibilities.Resources:

In this episode, we explore the concept of reframing and its impact on your equestrian journey. Host Mary Debono shares personal anecdotes and practical examples to illustrate how changing your perspective can revolutionize your approach to challenges, both in and out of the saddle.Mary emphasizes that reframing is not about sugarcoating difficulties, but about finding actionable strategies to improve your life and your relationship with your horse. She introduces the Feldenkrais Method as a powerful tool for enhancing both physical and mental well-being, highlighting how improved body awareness can lead to more effective mindset shifts.Key takeaways:Reframing is about changing the meaning of a situation to reach a more empowering conclusion.Mindset shifts not only change how you feel but also influence your actions and outcomes.Grounding techniques, such as focusing on physical sensations, can help break negative thought patterns.Improved body awareness through the Feldenkrais Method can facilitate mindset shifts and enhance riding abilities.Reframing is a skill that can be practiced daily, leading to long-term positive changes in your equestrian life.Mentioned in the podcast: Breeze running and rearing gifResources:

You can learn the secret to your horse being able to round the back easily. This episode explores how the sternum and ribs can help—or hinder—a horse's ability to collect, and introduces a gentle, hands-on method to help horses rediscover comfortable movement, leading to improved performance and well-being.You'll also learn the difference between "leg movers" and "back movers," and how trying to force your horse into a frame can lead to tension, resistance, and potential long-term soundness issues.You'll hear about Mary's gentle, hands-on method to help horses rediscover comfortable movement, emphasizing the importance of positive reinforcement and building trust.Key takeaways:Rib cage mobility is crucial for proper rounding of the back and engagement of the hindquarters.Lack of rib cage awareness can lead to "leg moving" instead of true "back moving" collection.Trying to force a horse into a “frame” can cause long-term issues.A gentle, hands-on method can help horses rediscover comfortable movement.Associating ease and pleasure with healthy movement helps retrain horses for better body awareness and improved performance. .Patience and gradual reintroduction of tack and rider are essential.Improved rib cage mobility can lead to more effortless, graceful movement.This approach emphasizes working with the horse, not against them.The goal is to help horses find joy and freedom in their movement.Resources:

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:Understanding the bidirectional nature of the body-mind connectionPractical tips for managing anxiety and increasing confidenceThe importance of presence and awareness in horsemanshipSimple exercises to improve body awareness and relaxation for both rider and horseLeveraging positive memories to anchor beneficial emotional statesHow horses perceive and respond to our internal statesSimple strategies for breaking habitual tension patternsYou'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 TakeawaysThe body-mind connection is bidirectional and inseparable.Horses are highly attuned to our internal states and physical tension.Cultivating curiosity about anxiety can help dissipate its effects.Simple awareness exercises can dramatically improve your horsemanship.Positive visualization can anchor beneficial emotional states.Aim for a relaxed, yet responsive state for you and your horse.  Presence and mindfulness enhance the horse-human bond.Resources:

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:

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:Varying Context: Changing the environment and context during training helps solidify new movement patterns for you and your horse.Feldenkrais Insights: The Feldenkrais Method teaches that learning is more effective when practiced in different contexts, making it easier to integrate into daily life.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.Practical Application: Experiment with different contexts to reinforce learning and improve your horse's movement and emotional well-being.Resources:

In this episode, Mary Debono continues her discussion on how to work with your horse's existing habits to encourage ease and comfort. Building on concepts from previous episodes, Mary explains the importance of introducing novel, non-habitual movements that engage the horse's nervous system in a positive way.These movements do more than just improve your horse's athletic abilities—they also enhance their emotional resilience and foster a deeper bond between horse and human.Mary delves into the science behind the use of gentle, slow touch, including the role of C-tactile afferents (CLTMs) in building trust and reducing stress. She offers practical tips for incorporating novelty and variations into your daily routine, such as tacking up from the opposite side or leading from the offside. By focusing on gentle, safe variations, you can help your horse feel more confident and connected, ensuring that both you and your horse thrive together.Key Takeaways:Start with Ease: Begin by supporting your horse's current movement habits, building a foundation of comfort and trust.Introduce Novel Movements: Gradually incorporate non-habitual movements to stimulate the horse's nervous system and promote learning.Enhance Emotional Resilience: Novel movements can help your horse become more confident and less fearful of change.Strengthen the Bond: Gentle, slow touch can deepen the connection between you and your horse by activating an emotional area of the horse's brain.Practical Applications: Simple changes, like tacking up from a different side, can be powerful tools for introducing novelty while maintaining a sense of ease.Resources:

In this episode, Mary Debono builds on the previous discussion about why it's crucial to work with, rather than against, a horse's current movement patterns. Mary explains how supporting a horse's tendency for spinal extension, for instance, can be the first step in helping the horse discover healthier movement options, like flexion and rounding. By exaggerating and then gently guiding the horse back to a more neutral position, the nervous system starts to feel safe and open to new possibilities. This method not only benefits the horse's physical health but also fosters a stronger, more trusting bond between horse and rider. Mary also touches on how important it is to involve the entire spine, rib cage, and sternum in these movements, emphasizing that healthy movement isn't just about the back but the whole horse, including the horse's mind.  This episode serves as a valuable guide for equestrians looking to improve their horse's movement and deepen their connection through gradual, supportive methods. Key Takeaways:Support Before Change: Supporting a horse's current movement habits, even if they seem "incorrect," can create a foundation for lasting change.Safety and Ease: Ensuring the nervous system feels safe and comfortable is crucial for helping the horse explore new movement possibilities.Whole-Body Movement: Healthy movement involves more than just the spine; the rib cage, sternum, and other parts can also participate.Shared Awareness: Working together with the horse to explore movement creates a stronger bond and a more responsive nervous system.Gradual Progression: Changes in movement should be introduced gradually, respecting the horse's comfort and existing patterns.Resources:

 In this episode of "Easier Movement, Happier Horses," Mary Debono delves into the often-overlooked concept of working WITH a horse's current movement patterns, however "incorrect" we may think they are, instead of trying to force a change. Mary explains how many equestrians, in their desire to help their horses move better, may inadvertently cause discomfort or resistance by attempting to immediately correct posture issues, such as a dropped back. Drawing on her extensive experience, Mary illustrates how gently supporting a horse's existing habits can create a sense of ease and safety, making the nervous system more receptive to learning new, healthier movement options. This approach not only improves the horse's physical well-being but also enhances its mental and emotional state. Mary offers a fresh perspective on fostering a deeper connection with your horse by respecting its current state and guiding it toward better movement through gradual, supportive methods. We'll continue this discussion in our next podcast episode. Please subscribe so you don't miss an episode!Key TakeawaysForcing a horse to round its back can create discomfort and resistance.Supporting a horse's current movement habits can create a sense of ease and safety.The nervous system is more receptive to learning new movement patterns when it feels safe.This approach improves the horse's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.Gradual, supportive methods foster better communication and a deeper connection between horse and rider.Resources:

In this episode, Mary tackles a common question: "Can you really increase flexibility and strength without stretching or pushing your limits?" Drawing from the Feldenkrais Method, Mary explains how improving body awareness and reducing unnecessary tension can lead to greater strength and flexibility. Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to move more easily and comfortably, this episode will guide you on how to achieve sustainable, long-term improvement in your movement, strength, and flexibility. Remember, you and your horse deserve to feel great. Together!Key Takeaways:Awareness is Key: Improving body awareness helps refine movement, leading to natural increases in flexibility and strength.Healthy Effort vs. Strain: Pushing beyond limits with strain can cause unnecessary tension and hinder progress, while healthy effort is sustainable and efficient, leading to greater strength and flexibility.Neuroplasticity: The Feldenkrais Method leverages the brain's ability to create new neural pathways, allowing for better movement and adaptation.Application Across Disciplines: Whether you're an equestrian, dancer, or other athlete, Feldenkrais concepts can enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury.Integrating Feldenkrais into Daily Life: The benefits of Feldenkrais aren't confined to the practice; they permeate all areas of life, leading to more ease and efficiency in everyday tasks.Resources:Podcast show notes for this episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/h87

In this episode, you'll learn all about Step 1 of the Six Steps to Creating Horse-Human Harmony.You'll hear Mary explain how enhancing your body awareness can lead to better communication, trust, and overall well-being for you and your horse. Mary Debono, an expert in the Feldenkrais Method and creator of Debono Moves, guides you through practical strategies to improve your self-awareness and movement, ultimately enhancing your horse's comfort and performance. Key TakeawaysSelf-Awareness and Movement: Developing self-awareness and improving your movement through the Feldenkrais Method is crucial for effective and compassionate horsemanship.Embodied Understanding: Enhancing your body awareness allows you to understand and feel the benefits, leading to better athletic performance and overall well-being.Enhanced Sensitivity: Improved self-awareness increases your sensitivity to your horse's subtle cues, enhancing communication and interaction.Building Trust: Recognizing and respecting your horse's physical restrictions and movement habits fosters trust and paves the way to easier, healthier movement for your horse.Problem-Solving Skills: Developing self-awareness makes you a more creative and effective problem solver in handling various equine issues. Clearer Signals: Improved movement leads to clearer and more discreet signals to your horse, making your aids more effective.Safety and Responsiveness: Enhanced body awareness improves balance and responsiveness, increasing safety for you and your horse.Mindfulness Practices: Regular mindfulness breaks and body scans help reduce unnecessary tension and develop better body awareness.Compassionate Interaction: Greater self-awareness promotes more sympathetic and compassionate movement, leading to a deeper bond with your horse.Stress Reduction: Improved self-awareness and movement help regulate your nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxed breathing, which positively impacts your horse.Subscribe to "Easier Movement, Happier Horses" and ensure you don't miss the upcoming deep dives into each of these transformative steps.

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 In this episode, Mary Debono shares a transformative shift in her approach to helping riders achieve their best. Moving beyond the traditional focus on balance in the saddle, Mary introduces the concept of "biological optimism," highlighting the potential for improvement at any age or fitness level. Through her extensive experience with the Feldenkrais Method, Mary offers insights into how this approach can enhance movement, well-being, and the rider-horse connection. She provides practical tips for developing body awareness and reducing tension, empowering listeners to trust their inner authority and embrace freedom in their riding journey. Tune in to discover how you can cultivate self-awareness, improve your riding, and deepen your bond with your horse. Want to learn more? Join the Move with Your Horse waitlist! https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse

Have you ever wondered how to transform a sensitive, easily spooked, or defensive horse into a confident and relaxed partner? You'll hear about specific cases where observing subtle cues and applying gentle, supportive touch made a significant difference in a horse's emotional and physical well-being. We'll also explore the art of understanding and communicating with horses through their breathing. Learn the importance of recognizing early signs of agitation and how to respond with Connected Breathing, a mindfulness-based exercise that helps release tension, refine communication, and deepen your connection with your horse.Want to learn more? Join the Move with Your Horse waitlist! https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse

What if horse training could be more about partnership and mutual respect than following rigid regimes? On this episode of the Easier Movement, Happier Horses podcast, Mary Debono uncovers the transformative approach of facilitating learning opportunities for your horse. By focusing on what your horse already finds easy and gently expanding on that, you can build a cooperative and enjoyable training experience. Mary emphasizes the importance of compassionate curiosity, an attitude that fosters creative problem-solving and strengthens the bond between you and your equine partner.Join us as we explore how to integrate your values into your horse training, whether you're riding, doing groundwork, or engaging in hands-on exercises. Mary shares insights from her Move With Your Horse program, revealing how to gradually and thoughtfully expand your horse's capabilities. This episode promises to shift your perspective on training, making it a joyful and enriching process for both you and your horse. Tune in and discover how to create a harmonious and responsive partnership by embracing curiosity and patience in your interactions.Ready to embark on this transformative journey?Join the Move with Your Horse waitlist! https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse

Can the way you think about your body transform your riding experience? Join me, Mary Debono, on the Easier Movement, Happier Horses podcast as we explore a crucial concept for equestrians: understanding the difference between using body parts in isolation versus independently. This might sound like a subtle shift, but it can lead to a profound improvement in your movement coordination and your harmony with your horse. By gaining better control and awareness of how you move both in and out of the saddle, you can elevate your nonverbal communication with your horse, resulting in a more enjoyable and effective riding journey.Throughout this episode, I'll guide you through breaking free from maladaptive movement habits that limit your potential and cause unnecessary fatigue or injury. We'll discuss the importance of learning to use your body parts independently, fostering healthier and more harmonious movements that benefit your overall well-being. Tune in for practical advice and valuable insights aimed at helping you cultivate greater body awareness, enhance your athleticism, and build a more pleasurable and productive connection with your horse. Make mindful adjustments, transform your riding, and discover the joy of moving in harmony with your equine partner.Ready to embark on this transformative journey?Join the Move with Your Horse waitlist! https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse

Are there things about yourself or your horse that you'd like to fix? In this episode, I challenge the notion that you or your horse needs fixing.Instead, we embrace a holistic approach. Drawing on my 30 years of experience as a Feldenkrais teacher specializing in horses and riders, I explain how our nervous systems develop habits and how, by working in harmony with these natural processes, we can foster better movement options and deeper connections with our horses.Discover the Move With Your Horse program's core framework, Possibilities in Motion, which uses gentle methods to relieve tension and open up new movement possibilities.

Beyond better performance, learn how improved movement can boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and create a deeper connection between you and your horse. Discover ways to make saddling up a positive experience and explore a holistic approach to movement that unlocks a happier you and a happier horse.Beyond Performance:Boost Confidence: Discover how improved suppleness can boost your horse's confidence and sense of well-being. Just like us, restrictions can breed anxiety.Feel the Shift: Improved movement isn't just about physical ease; it elevates your emotional state. Learn how positive changes in your body can spark optimism and a sense of possibility.Build Trust, Not Tension: Ditch the forceful methods! Mary explains how gentle, Feldenkrais-inspired techniques foster trust and a harmonious relationship with your horse.A Happier You, a Happier Horse:Reduced Stress & Anxiety: Improved movement isn't just about coordination and strength; it's about nervous system regulation. Experience calm and refine your feel at the same time.  Deeper Connection: As your movement awareness grows, so does your ability to connect with your horse. Imagine a state of "shared awareness" where both of you are in sync.Rediscover Joy: Saddling up shouldn't be a battle! Mary offers solutions that make tacking up a pleasurable experience for your horse, setting the stage for a happier, more harmonious ride.Movement for More Than Mechanics:Movement improvement goes beyond improving your dressage score or cantering down that trail. It's about a holistic approach that unlocks a deeper connection, bringing more joy and harmony to your relationship with your horse.Ready to embark on this transformative journey? Tune in to the full episode and join the waitlist for Mary's Move with Your Horse program.

Key Takeaways- Pulling on the tail can harm horses with back tightness, triggering a defensive response- Instead of pulling, support the tail forward to relax the muscles- Focus on building trust and offering new options to the horse- Prioritize somatic education and integrated movement over structural manipulation- Consider the "Move with Your Horse" program for detailed tail support guidance- Practice safety precautions for you and your horse- Be mindful, and prioritize the horse's comfort and well-being- Tail traction exercises, or tail stretches, *may* benefit horses when done with the proper preparation so that the horse cab experience a safe, balanced and coordinated lengthening through the spine  Resources:Podcast show notes for this episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/h74Join the Move with Your Horse waitlist! https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse

Injury keeping you out of the saddle? Learn actionable steps to help you stay connected to your horse, facilitate your healing, and improve your horsemanship. Learn about mindful movement, mental training, and creative ground exercises.Use your recovery time to deepen your connection with your horse and come back to riding even stronger than before!Use your recovery time to improve in these areas:  Mindful Movement: explore approaches such as the Feldenkrais Method to improve body awareness and movement, even with limitations. Micro-movements and mental visualization can be powerful tools for healing injuries and enhancing riding skills.Deepen the Connection with Your Horse: creative ground exercises and positive reinforcement training can strengthen your bond with your horse while riding is on hold.Self-Awareness: How you move, breathe and direct your attention shapes your interactions with your horse. Take the time to deepen your connection with your horse by being mindful of your movement, breathing and thoughts By exploring these strategies, you can transform your injury layoff into a period of focused learning and deeper connection with your horse. Get ready to return to the saddle a more knowledgeable, centered, and harmonious rider!Resources:Podcast show notes for this episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/h73Free rider masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/riderPrevious episode: Laid Up Horse? Here's How to Make the Most of ItHorse Running to Mounting Block: https://app.searchie.io/watch/mpDoYw9Gq4 Email mary@marydebono.comAll information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical or veterinary advice.  

Horse sidelined with an injury? Don't despair!Join Mary Debono, your equine expert, as she unveils the silver lining within stall rest. In this episode, you'll discover how to transform recovery time into relationship-building gold.Master the art of mindful movement: Discover the magic of hand-walking in sync with your horse, fostering a deeper understanding of your horse's movement.Unlock the power of Connected Breathing, where you and your horse find harmony through observing each other's rhythm.Challenge those routines: Learn the benefits of leading your horse from the "wrong" side, and keeping your horse's nervous system engaged in a positive way.Become a master detective of your horse's body language: Sharpen your observation skills to decode your horse's smallest cues and subtle signs of tension.Discover how by being truly present with your horse during recovery, you can not only strengthen your bond but also elevate your horsemanship skills to a whole new level.Don't miss out on this opportunity to turn a setback into a breakthrough for you and your horse!Resources:Podcast show notes for this episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/h72Free rider masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/riderEmail mary@marydebono.comAll information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical or veterinary advice.  

Does your horse sometimes seem reluctant or struggle with the activities you've chosen?  Too often, owners force horses into roles or disciplines unsuitable for their physical abilities or temperament. The key to harmony is finding mutually enjoyable activities for both horse and human. While challenging our horses is important, we must also respect their individual needs and limitations. In this episode, Mary encourages shifting our mindset, adjusting expectations, and prioritizing activities that create a positive experience.Building a partnership centered on understanding and shared happiness, rather than forced submission, is the core philosophy. Join Mary as she offers solutions for overcoming physical and emotional obstacles to better connect with your horse. Get her expert advice for bringing out the best in both you and your equine partner.Resources:Podcast show notes for THIS episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/h71Free rider masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/riderEmail mary@marydebono.comAll information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical or veterinary advice.  

Maybe you're learning a new form of bodywork and you can't wait to use it to help your horse. But your horse says, “No thanks!”In this episode, you'll hear about the strategies I use to help horses relax, enjoy and benefit from hands-on work.  In this episode, I discuss:- The importance of understanding your horse's past experiences- The power of connected breathing and relaxation techniques- How to work with a horse through their skeleton for a non-threatening touch- Strategies to provide immediate relief and build trust- The concept of shared awareness and its benefits in your relationshipResources:Podcast show notes for THIS episode: https://www.marydebono.com/blog/h70Video of Rib Rocking: https://app.searchie.io/watch/jVDGwM0EDW Video of Back Muscle Lifts: https://app.searchie.io/watch/AYDapoPw2QFree rider masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/riderEmail mary@marydebono.comAll information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical or veterinary advice.