Krista Johnson Horsemanship LLC

11/18/2024

I love how curious Hondo and Tommy Boy are when I get the side by side and equipment out. 🐴 🐴❤️

11/16/2024

Hondo is still looking for his next partner. He is finishing up a 90 day tune up and is super broke. Ride him in a curb bit, snaffle bit, hackamore, or a neck rope...he'll go to work for you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtf_X_kkFJU

Video was taken on November 15, 2024.Seeking a Noble Companion? Meet Hondo - Your Next Equine Partner!Introducing "Hondo" (Roaney's Dark Kelly), a majestic 2...

11/12/2024

Today we honor and thank all veterans for their service and sacrifice. From our barn family to all who have served - we're deeply grateful. 🇺🇸
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11/04/2024

The Mental Side of Horsemanship

The secret to great riding? It's in your mind, not just your muscles. While proper hand and leg cues matter, your horse responds best when you clearly visualize what you want. Focus your thoughts, and watch your horse follow. Your body does the work, but your mind leads the way. Once you get something in your mind and in your horse's mind, things get EASIER!!!

11/03/2024

"Embracing the Nonlinear Journey"

One of life's most profound lessons is learning to honor each person's unique journey.

This truth resonates deeply in my experience with horses, especially with my beloved Louie. Today, something magical happened – he chose to stop, relax, and simply be present with me in the arena. While this might seem small to some, for us, it's nothing short of extraordinary.

Three years. That's how long this journey has taken us, and I share this proudly because every breakthrough, no matter when it comes, deserves to be celebrated. As I sit here on Louie, both of us in perfect harmony and deep in thought, I'm reminded that no journey follows a straight path. Life's greatest adventures are filled with twists, turns, challenges, and beautiful moments of breakthrough.

The real victory isn't in reaching perfection – it's in the progress we make and the wisdom we gather along the way. Every horse, like every person, has their own story, their own timeline, and their own way of growing. And that's exactly what makes this journey so incredibly special.

Thanks for letting me share - Krista

11/02/2024

🐎 Create Connection in the the Round Pen: PURPOSE Over Pressure

The round pen can be a wonderful space for developing trust and communication with your horse when used thoughtfully. The key is focusing on mutual understanding rather than movement for movement's sake.

Good round pen work:
* Help the horse to be in a good mental and emotional state
* Mutual communication - the horse reads you and you read the horse
* Direct feet with intention and purpose
* Use the same yields used to communicate with the horse with a rope
* Offer more relief when the horse looks to you for guidance

Poor round pen work:
* Mindless circling
* Encouraging flight responses and an escape mindset
* Overwhelming pressure
* Ignoring stress signals
* Horse is too afraid to look at you for guidance

Remember: Liberty work is about building connection. When your horse chooses to tune in and respond to your subtle cues, that's where the real magic happens!
What's your favorite liberty exercise to build connection with your horse? Share below! ✨

11/01/2024

🐎 WHY YOUR HORSE NEEDS TO TROT & CANTER - EVEN IF YOU MOSTLY WALK! (Sound horses. Exchange intermediate gait for trot for gaited horses.)

Here's a game-changing truth that many riders overlook: Your horse's emotional and mental balance starts with physical movement. Think of it like this - horses are natural athletes who NEED to express their gaits fully to feel their best! 💫
Just like we feel better after a good workout, your horse's brain literally resets when they engage in forward movement.

Even if you prefer walking trails or working at slower speeds, incorporating just 5-10 minutes of relaxed trotting and cantering in your warm-up can transform your horse's:
✨ Mental collection and clarity
✨ Emotional collection and stability
✨ Physical collection and relief
✨ Overall responsiveness

Don't just take my word for it - try it yourself! You'll be amazed at how much more present, focused, and connected your horse becomes, even during walk work. 🙌
Your horse's mind and body are connected. When you activate one, you enhance the other!
Who's going to try this with their horse this week? Drop a 🐎 in the comments if you're in!

10/29/2024

Up for Consideration. Consignment Sale.
“Hondo”
Roaney’s Dark Kelly
2015 Appendix Quarter Horse Bay Gelding 15 Hands
Well Broke. Rides Western or English
Orland, Indiana
See photos for more info

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vvtwgvtez2k

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQ8_yatDMHk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kyxs66yb_uI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nANGGR1Ylo

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPDiFRAz40PObNRDfVvXE4DQR04AavWVH

10/25/2024

✨ When Dreams Become Reality ✨

Ever dream of riding your horse without a bridle?

Hondo is not only handsome, but he's handy, and ready to be your next riding companion.
Picture this: The sun's setting on a summer evening, your hair catching the breeze as you and Hondo move as one across the arena - no bridle, just pure trust and connection. This isn't just a dream - it's what Hondo offers to his next partner.
At 15 hands, this 9-year-old quarter horse gelding is the perfect blend of seasoned wisdom and youthful energy. His chocolate bay coat and gorgeous tail turn heads, but it's his heart that will steal yours.

Don't let your dream horse become someone else's reality.
Hondo can be seen and tried in Orland, Indiana.
Contact: Krista Johnson 260-318-3767 [email protected]

https://youtu.be/4nANGGR1Ylo?si=a18gvYqTpIzWkgeQ

Seeking a Noble Companion? Meet Hondo - Your Next Equine Partner!Introducing "Hondo" (Roaney's Dark Kelly), a majestic 2015 Appendix Quarter Horse gelding wh...

10/22/2024

With heavy hearts, we share that our beloved Theodore, affectionately known as "The Appalachian Hippopotamus," crossed the rainbow bridge yesterday.

After suffering a severe leg injury, the difficult decision was made to let him go peacefully.

Theodore wasn't just a horse - he was a gentle soul who touched countless lives with his unique personality and loving spirit.
HOP Team Theodore will deeply miss his presence, his quirky mannerisms, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him.
We find comfort in knowing he lived surrounded by love, and we're forever grateful for the time we shared with this remarkable horse. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rest easy, sweet Theodore. 🐎 💕

10/20/2024

"I think we spend a lot of time trying to get something. Really, we need to do more receiving. To get means to obtain by struggle and effort. To receive means to take in what's being offered, to become like a receptacle, and take in what's being offered." - Joyce Meyer

I heard this and immediately thought how it relates to horsemanship. - Krista

Photo credit: Micayla Back Photography

10/15/2024

Up For Consideration. Consignment Sale.
"Hondo" Roaney's Dark Kelly
2015 Appendix AQHA Gelding 15H
Located in Orland, Indiana
More info in the photos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vvtwgvtez2k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQ8_yatDMHk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kyxs66yb_uI

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPDiFRAz40PObNRDfVvXE4DQR04AavWVH

Photo credit: Micayla Back Photography

10/13/2024

Remember Meadow, the palomino wild spirit we've been following on her journey from feral to family?

Get ready for a heartwarming update that'll make your day! 🐴✨

Against all odds, Meadow found her forever home with an incredible owner who saw past her untamed exterior and straight into her beautiful soul. This isn't just any adoption story – it's a testament to the power of patience, perseverance, and unwavering love.

Watching Meadow's progress is like witnessing poetry in motion. Her owner, armed with determination and a thirst for knowledge, is moving mountains to help this magnificent mare reach her full potential. Every small victory is a cause for celebration!

In our latest video, you'll see Meadow learning the 'Sending Through Exercise' – a useful skill for safely navigating gates, barn doors, and more. It's not just about safety; it's about building trust and communication between horse and human.

This is more than just horse training – it's a love story between a dedicated owner and a horse who's learning to trust humans.
Don't miss this beautiful chapter in Meadow's transformation! Watch, share, and let's show some love for Meadow and her incredible owner. Who knows? Their story might just inspire you to take on your own life-changing project! 💖🐎

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jc8mdH77mP8

Some clips from a training session with Meadow, an Appalachian Brumby, who is still in the taming and halter breaking process. Meadow has come a long way and...

10/09/2024

Finding your signals exhausting? Remember: when riding feels like a workout... you're probably doing too much!
You're mental focus is more powerful than you realize. Think of communication with your horse as a whisper, not a shout. By simplifying your cues, you transform clunky commands into elegant suggestions. The result? Your horse responds more readily, and riding becomes what it should be - an effortless conversation between partners.

Photo credit: Marissa Ellis Photography

10/07/2024

Quick video on blending your turns on the forehand and turns on the haunches in a flow.

https://youtu.be/niNUnuD6q_I?si=jAq1-lN58eN4gJYl

Master Hindquarter & Forequarter Turns In A Flow | Essential Horse Training ExerciseLearn how to effectively teach your horse to yield both hindquarters and ...

10/07/2024

Ever wondered why some horses eagerly greet their riders at the gate, ears pricked forward in anticipation?

The answer lies not in pockets full of treats, but in the fascinating psychology of these majestic animals and their deep-rooted need for purposeful interaction.

The Working Horse: A Partnership Built on Purpose:
Horses, as herd animals, are naturally wired to seek structure, routine, and clear expectations. When we provide consistent, purposeful work, we tap into their innate desire for order and understanding within their environment. This isn't just about physical exercise; it's about creating a framework where horses can:
- Understand their role
- Feel secure in their responsibilities
- Experience the satisfaction of accomplishment

The Leadership Dynamic: More Than Just Being "In Charge":
In the wild, horses rely on herd dynamics for survival and social structure. When humans step into their lives, we have the unique opportunity to provide a type of leadership that goes beyond what they experience in their natural habitat.

Beyond the "Treat" Approach:
While many well-meaning horse enthusiasts focus on creating a "bond" through:
- Offering treats
- Spending "undemanding time" together
- Trying to be their horse's "friend"

Research and experience show that horses actually thrive on:
- Boundaries
- Safety
- Comfort
- Leadership
- Responsibility

Practical Applications To build a stronger relationship with your horse:
- Establish consistent daily routines
- Set clear, achievable expectations
- Provide regular, purposeful work
- Offer leadership through fair, consistent handling
- Celebrate successful completion of tasks

The Bottom Line:
While treats and casual time certainly have their place, the foundation of a strong human-horse relationship is built on mutual respect, clear communication, and purposeful interaction. By understanding and applying these principles, you can develop a partnership with your horse that goes far beyond the superficial and taps into their deep-seated need for structure, purpose, and leadership.
Remember: A horse waiting eagerly at the gate isn't just looking for a handout – they're looking for the fulfillment that comes from understanding their role and working alongside a trusted leader.

Photo credit: Micayla Back Photography

10/03/2024

Saddle up in style this season! Our cozy equestrian hoodies are where barn life meets fashion. From early morning rides, sunset rides, to post-show relaxation, these aren’t just hoodies - they’re your new favorite riding companions. Gallop over to our website to check out designs that’ll have you looking sharp in and out of the stirrups!

https://kristajohnsonhorsemanship.square.site/s/shop