Harmony Stables

07/02/2025

Updated Prepayment Policy!

To ensure fairness and efficiency in our bookings, we require proof of payment at the time of booking (a screenshot for example)
• Bookings are only confirmed once we receive proof of payment AND the date of the session being paid for.
• We do not chase payments. If we don’t receive proof of payment, your booking is NOT valid.
• All cash payments must be made on the day of booking for sessions in the following week.
• If payment is not received, your space remains open for others on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Our 3-day cancellation policy remains in place – cancellations within 3 days of your session are non-refundable.

How to Secure Your Booking:
1. For online payments: Make payment at the time of booking and send proof of payment along with the session date.
2. For cash payments: Pay in person on the day of booking for any session in the following week and please just send a confirmation message afterwards with the date and time you’ve paid for with the cash
3. Once payment is received, we will confirm your booking.

Thank you for your cooperation!

If you are one of the wonderful people who already does these things, nothing has changed and we are very grateful to you 😊

04/02/2025

Good horse care

02/02/2025

🐴 Why Do Horses Spook? The Science Behind Their Brain—and How You Can Help 🧠

Ever wondered why your horse suddenly jumps at a rustling bush or shies away from a harmless plastic bag? It’s not “bad behavior”—it’s science. Let’s dive into what’s really happening in your horse’s brain and how you can help them feel safer...

🌟 The Equine Brain: Built for Survival

Your horse’s brain is wired differently from yours. As prey animals, horses have evolved with a highly sensitive limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotions, memory, and—most importantly—survival instincts.

🔍 When a horse senses potential danger, their amygdala, the brain's fear center, kicks into high gear. This triggers the sympathetic nervous system—the famous “fight-or-flight” response.

Heart rate spikes.

Muscles tense, ready to bolt.

Vision narrows to focus on the perceived threat.

To your horse, that plastic bag might as well be a crouching predator. Their brain isn’t being “silly”—it’s protecting them from what it perceives as a life-or-death situation.

🌿 Why Horses Struggle to "Think First"

Unlike humans, horses have a relatively underdeveloped prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for reasoning and logic. This means their response to fear is instinctive and immediate. They don’t have the luxury of thinking, “Oh, that bag moved because of the wind.”

This neurological wiring makes horses exceptionally reactive.

🗝️ But here’s the KEY: while they may react instinctively, they are also herd animals. They look to those they trust—whether another horse or you—for leadership and reassurance.

🧘‍♀️ The Power of Your Emotions: Why Calm Is Contagious

Horses are incredibly in tune with the emotions of those around them. This comes from their herd dynamics in the wild:

In a herd, horses rely on a calm, confident leader to signal when it’s safe or when it’s time to run.

If the leader panics, the whole herd panics.

As your horse’s human partner, YOU become their herd leader. When you stay calm, confident, and grounded, your horse’s mirror neurons—brain cells that mimic emotions—will pick up on your energy. A calm leader tells them, “It’s safe; you don’t need to worry.”

🔍 What Does This Look Like in Action?

1️⃣ When your horse spooks, don’t react with frustration or tension. Instead, take a deep breath, soften your body language, and reassure them with your calm presence.

2️⃣ Speak softly or hum—your voice can have a soothing effect when paired with a relaxed tone.

3️⃣ Be patient. Don’t force them directly toward the scary object; instead, let them process while you maintain calm, steady energy.

🌿 Herd Dynamics in Action: Partnership and Trust

Horses feel safest when they know someone else is “in charge.” By stepping into the role of a calm, confident leader, you create a foundation of trust and partnership.

💡 Key Qualities of a Good Herd Leader:

✔️ Calm under pressure
✔️ Consistent and fair
✔️ Clear in communication
✔️ Patient and non-reactive

When your horse trusts you as their leader, they’re more likely to turn to you for reassurance instead of defaulting to flight mode. Over time, this trust builds confidence—and fewer spooks.

💡So, How to Build Partnership and Trust?

Spend time doing groundwork exercises to establish clear, calm communication.

Reward your horse for bravery, even in small steps. Approaching a “scary” object deserves praise and reassurance.

Practice being mindful of your own emotions—stress and frustration can unintentionally signal danger to your horse.

🐎 The Bottom Line 🐎

Spooking is part of who horses are, but with patience, partnership, and trust, you can help your horse feel safe and confident in our human world. By becoming the calm, reassuring leader they need, you’ll not only reduce their fear—you’ll deepen the incredible bond you share.

💬 Have you helped your horse overcome spooking by building trust and confidence? Share your experiences below! Let’s grow together as mindful, empathetic riders.

💥 SHARE this post to help people everywhere create stronger partnerships with their horses. 🐴💙



Photo by Flo Knoyle Photography

02/02/2025

A Poem ~ Discarded

Throw away culture includes the horse,
When they no longer need you of course.
In love with riding and a quick fix,
Non ridden wouldn't go in the mix.
Given your all until nothing to give,
For some it's the only reason we live.
For some a downward spiral is the fate,
Lucky if welfare step in before it's too late.
Replaced with another to fill the need,
Or the monster of human greed.
Some are sold with the truth hidden,
The pain surfaces we shouldn't be ridden.
Treated as worthless throw away trash,
Or exchanged for a handful of cash.
Treated like you are a burden to drop.
When will the equine crisis ever stop.
Us horses know this is ethically wrong,
So we sing the non ridden equine song.
We often get told we are crazy,
But to do and say nothing is lazy.
Is it right to be treated this way?
If it happened to you what would you say.
Have you experienced being left in pain,
Frightened in the dark and the cold rain.
Not able to keep up so left behind,
Being rejected is cruel and very unkind.
Humans rejection is upsetting and hard,
Horses can be a death sentence card.
Seen as worthless four legs or two,
It shows humanity has much to do.

Kez - The Non Ridden Cob

Photo of a portrait my mum Vicki Yates did of me.

02/02/2025

Progression in Riding at Harmony Stables 🏇
——————
Note: this post is coming to you guys following a wonderful showjumping morning with 2 of our loaners, which ran alongside our scheduled sessions at the yard, which I will do an update on. But with that in mind, this post is one we planned last night and is very very important to us!

——————
At Harmony Stables C.I.C., we understand that the journey of learning to ride can sometimes feel slow, and we empathise with any frustration that may arise. Progress in riding is a unique and personal experience, influenced by various factors. Our riders learn the “fun stuff” - more commonly known as cantering and jumping, when the rider has learned those fundamental learning blocks. They may need to be reminded of these things and go back to them! We are so so proud of our riders and we are so grateful to our riders/their parents for having faith in us and beaming with the results of being patient! We are so proud of these riders, whether they’re featured in the video or not, we are so proud of you for having faith in the process.

Here are some insights into why progression may feel gradual:

1. Building Trust and Communication

Riding involves developing a harmonious relationship between rider and horse (and trainer/coach). This partnership requires patience, self-awareness, and effective communication to establish trust.

2. Developing Physical Coordination

Our bodies are not naturally designed for riding. Cultivating the necessary balance, core strength, and coordination to move in sync with the horse takes time and consistent effort. Engaging in stretching, core exercises, and balance work between rides can significantly aid this development.

3. Embracing the Multifaceted Nature of Riding

Riding is a blend of sport, art, and science. This multifaceted nature means there’s always something new to learn and master, adding depth to your riding journey.

4. Adapting to Each Horse’s Unique Needs

Every horse is an individual with distinct characteristics. We will switch up which horse you’re on because you can’t just learn to do it all on one horse and expect to become a well-rounded horseman/woman. Even the same horse can behave differently on different days due to factors like mood, weather, or health. Learning to adapt to these variations is a crucial aspect of becoming a skilled rider.

5. Recognising Non-Linear Progression

Progress in riding is rarely linear. You may experience days of significant breakthroughs followed by days that feel challenging. These fluctuations are normal. Celebrate small victories, such as improved posture or maintaining composure during unexpected moments, as they are meaningful milestones.

6. Prioritising Horse Welfare

At Harmony Stables, the well-being of our horses is paramount - hence why we take pride in our own a pony sessions and keep attention to detail as a value and keeping things realistic. We believe in laying a solid foundation for riders, ensuring that progression is achieved without compromising the mental and physical health of our horses as well as not giving unrealistic expectations of a fantasy journey of just doing whatever you want to do on the horse because “I want to go fast” “I want to jump” —- what does your horse want? How can we fairly convince the pony to do what we would like to do- they aren’t going to want to do what you want to do if it hurts them.

7. Embracing Lifelong Learning

Riding is a continuous journey of discovery. There is always more to learn, regardless of age or experience. This ongoing learning process is what makes the journey truly magical.

We encourage you to embrace each step of your riding journey, acknowledging that every experience contributes to your growth as a rider. At Harmony Stables, we are committed to supporting you and our horses every step of the way.

29/01/2025

No matter how much we love our horses, we can still hurt them.

No matter how well intentioned, we can still make mistakes.

Love and good intentions are not enough.

There also needs to be self reflection, personal growth and constant seeking of knowledge.

There needs to be a desire to reflect inward with a critical eye and a willingness to be wrong.

There needs to be an understanding that even your idols and teachers can be incorrect.

That people you love and trust can accidentally or intentionally give you misinformation.

Recognizing this inherent imperfection in humans will set you free.

It’s okay to be wrong — but what do you do once you’re exposed to the possibility you’ve made a mistake?

Do you deny it or do you grow from it?

The biggest limiting factor in becoming a better horse person is often our own ego.

26/01/2025

🗓️ February Dates for Your Diary 🐴
Get ready for an exciting February with us at Harmony Stables C.I.C! Here’s what’s coming up:

🌟 Saturday 1st February
Morning: Availability for a private lesson
3:00 PM: Adult Course

🌟 Sunday 2nd February
Limited space as a couple of ponies are attending a competition
11:00 AM: Group lesson
12 PM : full/part loan lessons

🌟 Tuesday 4th February
4:00 PM: Own a Pony session
4:45 PM: Lead Rein/Assisted Group
5:15 PM: Off Lead Rein Group

🌟 Wednesday 5th February
4:00 PM: full/part loan session

🌟 Thursday 6th February
4:00 PM: Own a Pony session
5:00 PM: Group lesson
Private lesson availability (arranged around the group lesson)

🌟 Saturday 8th February
10:00 AM & 12:45 PM: Own a Pony sessions
11:00 AM & 1:30 PM: Group lessons
Private lessons (arranged around group lesson times)
3:00 PM: Adult Course

🌟 Sunday 9th February
10:00 AM: Own a Pony session
11:00 AM: Group lesson
12 PM : full/part loan lessons

🌟 Tuesday 11th February
4:00 PM: Own a Pony session
4:45 PM: Lead Rein/Assisted Group
5:15 PM: Off Lead Rein Group

🌟 Wednesday 12th February
4:00 PM: full/part loan session

🌟 Thursday 13th February
4:00 PM: Own a Pony session
5:00 PM: Group lesson
Private lesson availability (arranged around the group lesson)

🌟 Friday 14th February
4:45 PM: Group lesson

🌟 Saturday 15th February PONY DAY!
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM OR 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM: PONY DAY!
Special Afternoon Activity: Learn about clipping ponies (TBC)
3:00 PM: Adult Course

🌟 Sunday 16th February
10:00 AM: Own a Pony session
11:00 AM: Group lesson
12 PM : full/part loan lessons

🌟 Tuesday 18th February
4:00 PM: Own a Pony session
4:45 PM: Lead Rein/Assisted Group
5:15 PM: Off Lead Rein Group

🌟 Wednesday 19th February
4:00 PM: full/part loan session

🌟 Thursday 20th February
4:00 PM: Own a Pony session
5:00 PM: Group lesson
Private lesson availability (arranged around the group lesson)

🌟 Saturday 22nd February
10:00 AM & 12:45 PM: Own a Pony sessions
11:00 AM & 1:30 PM: Group lessons
Private lessons (arranged around group lesson times)
3:00 PM: Adult Course

🌟 Sunday 23rd February
10:00 AM: Own a Pony session
11:00 AM: Group lesson
12 PM : full/part loan lessons

🌟 Tuesday 25th February
10:00 AM and 1:00PM: Own a Pony session
10:45 AM: Lead Rein/Assisted Group
11:15 AM: Off Lead Rein Group
1:45PM : Group Lesson

🌟 Wednesday 26th February
4:00 PM: full/part loan session

🌟 Thursday 27th February
9AM - 5PM : holiday club
10:00 AM: Own a Pony session
10:45 AM: Group lesson
Private lesson availability (arranged around the group lesson)

🌟 Friday 28th February
9AM - 5PM : holiday club
1 PM: Own a pony session
1:45 PM: Group lesson

📩Please be sure to pay on day of booking for your slot! Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on all the fun and learning this February. 🐴

Please visit https://www.harmonystablescic.com/about for prices and remember all riding elements of sessions are weather dependent

Photographed: Sophia giving Wilson a well-earned walk-off after an incredibly productive Pony Day lesson yesterday, where their group worked on cantering through a challenging polework setup

26/01/2025

25/01/2025

Before you head to the barn this morning, remember, your horse is trying to understand you as you try to understand them. Its a relationship that is constantly working towards a mutual understanding - just be kind!

23/01/2025

23/01/2025

Do you understand?

22/01/2025

Please help us get the word out about this amazing opportunity!

We’re absolutely delighted to share that Harmony Stables has been nominated for the prestigious Equestrian Business Awards – Riding School of the Year! 🐴✨

As a social enterprise, we’ve worked tirelessly to provide equine-assisted therapy, rehabilitation, and education, while promoting equine welfare and offering a safe haven for rescue and rehab horses. Being recognised for our efforts is an incredible honor, and we couldn’t have achieved this without the support of our wonderful community!

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing Laura Clinton of Equiflexion, who not only treats our horses monthly with such care but has also put us forward for this award. Laura, we’re so grateful for your expertise and belief in what we do. 💕

We need your support! If you’ve experienced the magic of Harmony Stables – whether through therapy sessions, riding lessons, volunteering, or simply being part of our journey – we’d love for you to nominate and vote for us. Together, let’s celebrate the incredible difference equines make in people’s lives and the community!

📌 Vote here: https://www.equestrianbusinessawards.co.uk/nominate

Whether you see us as a riding school, sanctuary, therapy center, or a community hub for equine welfare, your vote can help highlight the impact of what we do. Please share far and wide to help us reach more people who believe in our mission. 🌈

Thank you for your continued love and support – it means the world to us and our equine family. 🐎

20/01/2025

19/01/2025

•Sometimes good training looks like slow quiet work at the walk.
•Sometimes good training looks like matching a reactive horse’s energy.
•Sometimes good horsemanship is about making sure the horse is relaxed and enjoys every moment.
•Sometimes good horsemanship is about teaching a horse to handle the stress of life.
•Sometimes being a great rider means having soft quiet, well-timed, tactfully applied aids. 
•Sometimes being a great rider means having the strength and balance to stay in the middle of a spook or buck, without suddenly clutching the reins or scaring the horse even worse.

(Everyone is free to share! But please do not copy/paste.) 

18/01/2025

Thank you to our lovely group on our first week session for the adults course 🐴 we hope that you found it interesting and enjoyed getting to know the yard ☺️

17/01/2025

How tie a rope

17/01/2025

Walking in hand, hiking out. Learning to spend time away from the group. Being together. Watching wildlife. Sharing adventures. Learning to stand. Backing up a few steps. Trotting out on a long rein, without fuss. Walking home calmly. Growing braver, all the while.

Even when it's too icy to ride, there's still lots to learn.

If our horse is able, long reining is also a great exercise. This can be done saddled, or using a surcingle for the purpose, or even here, with light lunge reins only. It’s a great way to up the difficulty level of going out alone, once leading in hand has become old hat. It’s fun if you’re a jogger, or something new to do with a friend.

Each winter, I tend to take a horse who is suffering from ‘uptightitis’, which is a very serious condition lacking in humour, or maybe, forgiveness. Perhaps I will choose a crotchety old-timer who needs to move around a bit more, over the ice and snow.

We go ground driving. Trekking out all over the ranch and roadsides—or as far as my fitness will allow, which is an entirely different thing—building confidence and forwardness in the horse. If it’s really cold, we’ll just go with a halter or cavesson and long reins, as shown here. If I have to strap on a lot of gear, my fingers will freeze, even before we get launched. So, I keep it simple.

If my horses are already accustomed to lungeing well, doing the exercises I outline in my lungeing video (the link is below), then going ahead of me with two lines attached isn’t a very big deal. Being sent out ahead is powerful medicine, if we've got the horse or pony who habitually shies out.

If he becomes tangled, or should I fall down, my horse learns to stop and wait for me. There are worse things to figure out!

Here’s an old one of Harry and Betty, with me and my daughter, Cait. We’re running off the effects of our Christmas turkey and all its trimmings, having a bit of fun, while we're at it.

Harry was something of a reluctant ‘driving’ horse, harbouring the opinion that I should be working at least as hard as Himself. He did, eventually, catch on and took to trotting ahead of me like a duck to water. Betty, on the other hand, always moved right out and had a blast.

It’s just good, clean fun. If there’s something I might wish for more over the coming year, it’s remembering to laugh with those I love. Now, there's a worthy goal in all horsemanship!

Photo: Mike McLean.

***

Here's the link to the 'Lungeing with Lee' video, a $15 download. Note that our cavessons and lunge lines are still sold out. I will be making a few more cavessons at the bench in the new year, though they will be available only through the website and NOT via private message. Thank you for honouring this.

https://cattlecait.com/collections/keystone-equine/products/lungeing-with-lee