Collective Horsemanship (Michael Benner)

01/09/2024

Going live tomorrow at 1 pm central time! (2 eastern)

I’ll be discussing how to evaluate where you and your horse are in your training, and giving a basic framework of how to map out a schooling session

31/08/2024

Functional movement -

I watch in discussions and critiques how horses are parted with butchers eyes - this piece belongs here, that piece there. Many are happy as long as a part is high or low, up or down, and so on, but I find very few people discussing the internal bracing of the horse- or how the emotional state, how breathing or lack of it makes the inside incongruent with the outside.

I find few discussions about functional movement and how varied it can be moment to moment. A horse is not a statue in motion, to be set into a figure and ridden around tensely.

Human athletes all count the importance of breathing and mindset as essential. You won’t find an athlete at the top of their game who doesn’t discuss mindset or breathing , maybe even more than developing their sport. A golfer understands that even an intimate object like a golf club is affected by his breath and emotional state.

And yet we sorely lack this with horses. We want to squish the horse into shapes, our breathing and emotional state be damned, the horses breathing be damned. We want them to carry a look and carry with us memorized cherry picked articles to make ourselves feel good about disconnecting their body.

A horse is more sentient than a golf club, and yet it seems the golf club gets more feel when it’s handled, and less blame for how the game goes.

Photo by Kathy King Johnson

28/08/2024

The ultimate course to bring your horse into balance and harmony is starting September 2nd!

Discover how to:

🌟Correct Movement Issues: Learn proven techniques to address falling in, counter-bending, and head tossing during transitions.

🌟Build Confidence: Teach your horse to move with ease and balance, preparing them for riding without the need for constant corrections.

🌟Regulate Their Nervous System: Help your horse achieve a calm, forward, and straight movement through deep breathing and natural balance—without the interference of tack or rider.

🎯 The Results? A horse that moves with grace, confidence, and harmony—ready to take on any challenge.

🌟 Ready to Solve These Issues for Good?

See link in the comments to reserve your spot and start your journey to a more connected, balanced partnership with your horse.

24/07/2024

11/07/2024

A must for your continued education.

Have you completed my Calm, Forward and Straight gymnastic lunging course?
CFS2 is here- advancing lunging !

Learn to
-create elastic contact pleasant for both horse and human
-improve range of motion and mobility
-begin creating an excellent canter transition
-learn to understand the connection from lunging aids to riding
-further understand movement in a no frills, no bs and no drama environment.

Completion of CFS is a requirement, and to participate you must have a horse sound enough to walk and trot in both directions. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have; and as always, will work to ensure it’s a good fit for you or transfer you to a more appropriate course

This comes with six weeks of coaching including unlimited video critique, lifetime access, zoom calls, before and after markups and much more.

Link in the comments

***CFS completion a requirement!***

11/03/2024

Interested in a one-day workshop to learn the basics of blending with movement? Learn how to blend while on line the ground and mounted. With over 40 years of martial arts and 30 years of horsemanship experience, I can provide valuable insights on harmonizing with horses through principles found inTai Chi, Aikido, and Wing Chun. Exercises will focus on finding center, breathing, and moving within a balanced body structure - all adapted for horsemanship and sure to have lasting effects on both horse and rider.

11/03/2024

09/03/2024

Lately, I’ve been pondering the world of horsemanship, wondering about its future as a business. Are we focusing on the well-being of the horse, the human, or just chasing profits? With climate change causing more extreme weather and costs rising for essentials like feed and land, can the industry sustain itself? And what about our client base—is it growing or shrinking?

In my observations, I’ve noticed a lack of cross-promotion and general ethics in the profession. While some may disagree with me on ethics, it’s an issue that needs addressing. We’ve all seen professionals selling unhealthy horses or using questionable training methods. It’s time to shine a light on these issues, even if it means being unpopular. Well I have never been in a click or won a popularity prize and I am very comfortable being the pointy end of the stick.

But how do we enact change when fear of lawsuits or damage to our livelihoods holds us back? Perhaps the solution lies in influencing organizational and competitive standards, educating clients, and supporting ethical professionals through cross-promotion.

As for sustainability, the key lies in horse owners advocating for themselves. Whether a pleasure rider amblng through the woods onna Saturday afternoon or aspiring competitor attending clinics and riding lessons will not only improve your horsemanship but you and horse's overall healh. In addition both the hobbyist snd professional need better representation at all levels of government, through local and state horse organizations. Despite the professional being small businesses individually, together we contribute significantly to the economy. Yet, historically, we’ve lacked the organization cohesiveness seen in other recreational activities like OHV or hiking. Without active participation in advocacy and trail maintenance, our industry’s future is uncertain.

So, let’s reflect on these thoughts and consider how we can shape the future of horsemanship for the better.

07/03/2024

Who are they really?

You’ll know by their touch. Real feel, that comes from the center of a persons being, cannot be faked. You’ll know who they are through their hand.

It can’t be faked in a photograph, it can’t be faked with words. It can’t be faked with powerful friends and influence, it can’t be bought with a large following. It can’t be covered with perfect technique or technical skill.

The horse always knows, it shows through their eyes- and if you’re tuned in, you know too. You know by the touch what’s inside- the real inside of you, not the rationalizing mind. You know who is good for you, and who is not, by the inside of the teacher, felt through their hand.

07/03/2024

"The Untethered Relationships "
In today's fast-paced, highly connected world, we are constantly tethered to our devices, social media, and online networks. While these connections can enhance our lives in many ways, they can also constrain us – binding us to expectations, comparisons, and the need for constant validation.
The untethered relationship offers a refreshing alternative. It's that person you meet and click. It doesn't matter if they live across the country or if you haven't seen them in forever, but when you do catch up, it's like no time has passed at all? That's what I think of as "The Untethered Relationship." It's more than a casual or typical friendship; it has more depth and meaning in my life.
It's like this bond runs deeper than idle chitchat of the day; its strength lies in the mutual trust and respect for each other. It's not about how often you talk or hang out; it's about this connection you share that goes beyond all that. There is no need for superficial niceties or shallow small talk. Instead, a comfortable silence speaks volumes, a mutual understanding that words are not always necessary. In today's world it can be that simple little meme that represents, I'm thinking of you. It's the type of relationship that can have a significant disagreement and still laugh together, offer support, or sit quietly on the same day.
I only have a couple of these rare relationships. There have been times when they have been there for me, and in times I have been there for them, some go back to grade school. Some of us have shared embarrassing and life-changing moments and given trusted advice with no underlying motives other than to see the other find their path. This means the feelings run deep, kin to that of a partner or family member. I know they've always got my back and will be blunt, knowing I need to hear what they say.
What's remarkable is that it's not just about being there for each other when things are tough. It's also about celebrating the good stuff—like when they accomplish a significant life milestone, are interested in their life pursuits, or see their business taking off that they have been stressing over.
I'm trying to say these untethered relationships are unique. They're like constants in your life, a reminder that no matter where you go or what you do, people care about you and will always be there for you. And that's pretty awesome if you ask me.
While rare with mankind, I've seen it in abundance daily in nature and in my small herd of horses. They disagree, yet they have a bond that allows them to eat together and take long naps in the sun-filled pasture.

27/02/2024

This topic is so important for the safety of horse lovers and the wellbeing of horses. I made this presentation and want you to have it, for your wellbeing and your horse’s. Check the link in the comments to access this. It’s free, no strings, enjoy it and learn!

14/02/2024

Do you love your valentine, but your valentine slobbers on your hair and steps on your foot?
Do you dream of long romantic walks on the beach where your partner doesn’t rip your arm out of its socket?
Want to stare into your valentines eyes without risk of teeth?
On this day of love, give your partner the best gift of all- take your horse from pushy to peaceful by learning the key things involved in straightness: non confrontational boundaries given with clarity will set you and your horsey love up for a very happy Valentine’s Day
Get the perfect gift for your horse plus the bonus Webinar today!

It’s Valentine's Day, and what better way to celebrate the love you have for your horse than by treating yourselves to something truly special?

for 48 hours only not only give the gift of the “Introduction to In Hand Work Course” to your horse—and yourself but receive the Pushy Horses and Posture Webinar absolutely free!

Link in the comments

12/02/2024

Those esteemed as extraordinary horse professionals possess a unique ability distinguishing them from their peers: the capacity to perceive the expansive landscape while discerning the delicate beauty of a single flower concurrently.

Their mastery lies not only in technique but in the refinement of sensory acuity, allowing them to pe*****te the veil behind which horses shield themselves, revealing the raw truths concealed within.

08/02/2024

What builds trust?

We hear it every day, all around us-
“You can trust me!”
But many peoples request for trust is like weedling a foot through a crack in a mostly closed door, and forcing it open. It becomes about their wanting, and in their wanting, that door becomes shut for good.

Trust is not owed to you, no matter how hard you work at it or how much time you spend. This is central to remember when trying to develop it.

Trust is developed by not wanting anything, except the well-being of the other.

Trust is developed by being who you say you are, and if you say you are patient then you are, and if you say you are caring then you are. It’s walking the walk after the nice words are said, especially when the going gets rough.

Building trust is developed by resolving conflict and taking ownership when you’re in the wrong - it means, without defensiveness or snippiness or anger, acknowledging the hurt and simply resolving to do better.

Building trust means letting go of what you feel you are owed by the other, and allowing them to be as they are.

Building trust means helping them through their troubles, without judgement- is it just a plastic bag to you? Not to them. Someone trust worthy is there to help in a meaningful way.

Building trust means being emotionally regulated yourself, so you can be a safe and easy place to be.

Is there someone in your life you trust, completely and totally? What do they offer for you, and how can you emulate that for those who’s trust you would like?

06/02/2024

Understanding Center Awareness: How It Impacts Movement and Equine Riding

Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions, walking or even running, without much thought to how your body moves? You might be experiencing what I refer to as a "lack of center awareness." This concept suggests that many individuals, particularly in Western cultures like the United States, may not be fully attuned to their body's center of gravity and how it influences their movement patterns.

When you are out at a store or especially a mall on the second floor, take a moment and listen closely to how people walk. It's a favorite pastime of mine to observe human gait and take note of mechanical and shoe-related lameness. With each step, your foot hits the ground with a noticeable slap or hard impact sound, almost as if they're constantly catching themselves from falling forward. This stumping gait, as I call it, reflects a lack of balance, alignment, and possibly stiffness in the body. It's like walking on autopilot, with little regard for proper posture and mechanics.

But why does this matter? Aside from potentially leading to discomfort and injury over time, a lack of center awareness can also affect activities beyond walking or running—like horseback riding.
When you're in the saddle, your body's alignment, balance, and fluidity are crucial for your safety and the horse's well-being. Just as humans can develop inefficient movement patterns on the ground, they can also carry those habits into the saddle and transfer them to horse movement.

For example, suppose a rider lacks center awareness and sits heavily in the saddle, constantly catching themselves or, most often, unaware that their shoulders are ahead of the center of balance. In that case, it can disrupt the horse's movement and balance. Horses are incredibly perceptive animals, capable of sensing even subtle shifts in weight, energy, and body mimicry. So, a rider's weight needs to be properly centered or tight. In that case, it can cause the horse to sacrifice its center, causing it to compensate and strain muscles and causing discomfort or even injury for the horse.

Furthermore, riders with poor posture and alignment may struggle to communicate effectively with their horse through subtle body language aids. Clear, balanced communication between rider and horse is essential for building trust and achieving harmony in the partnership.

So, how can riders improve their center awareness and enhance their riding experience? It starts with tuning into what we lost between childhood and adulthood, body awareness. By consciously adjusting to their body's center of gravity and practicing proper alignment on and off the horse, riders can develop a more balanced, harmonious connection with their own body, aiding our equine partners.

The cause is rooted in our modern adult life, the dangerous, sedentary, and repetitive jobs we endure daily. So, we need to engage in activities like yoga, Pilates, tai chi, or any learning activity that helps tune into our own body, as we learned to ride a bike, which can help improve body awareness and strengthen the core muscles required for balanced riding. This is a challenging endeavor, so I recommend working with a qualified instructor or a friend who can provide feedback on posture and alignment, which is also invaluable.

Ultimately, by cultivating center awareness and focusing on proper body mechanics, riders can enhance their comfort and safety and promote the well-being and performance of their equine companions. It's a win-win for both horse and rider.

While I'm semi-retired from horsemanship. I still like staying current and helping those committed to improving themselves for the horse and in all aspects of life. Stay mentally and physically centered, and enjoy the moments in the saddle.

Photo: self generated AI image, midjourney

02/02/2024

Going Beyond Basics: Introduction to Softness in Rider and Horse

When it comes to achieving softness in both the rider and the horse, it’s crucial to look beyond just the physical movements and focus on the mental and emotional aspects. While many riders concentrate on the mechanics of riding, like getting the horse to bend or move in a certain way, true softness is more about the mindset and intentions of the rider.

Softness starts with the rider’s attitude and how they approach working with the horse. Having a calm and focused mindset is key to building trust and communication. If a rider is tense, impatient, or distracted, it can disrupt the connection needed to achieve softness. So, it’s important for riders to learn how to quiet their thoughts, pay attention to the horse’s cues, and communicate clearly and empathetically.

Understanding that the horse is a thinking and feeling creature is also essential. Instead of just treating it like a machine that needs to perform certain actions, riders should listen to the horse, watch its body language, and respond to its needs. By respecting the horse’s intelligence and emotions, riders can create a partnership based on trust and cooperation.

You cannot ride a horse into softness or into the balance of self-carriage. One mistake that riders often make is focusing too much on getting the horse to move in a certain way without considering the horse’s mental and emotional state. This can lead to tension and stiffness in both the rider and the horse. If the rider isn’t able to stay calm and focused, the horse may try to compensate by adjusting its posture in an unnatural way, which can lead to problems with movement and balance.

To truly achieve softness, riders need to prioritize the mental and emotional aspects of the partnership. This means practicing sensory awareness and accepting the horse's perspective. By building a relationship based on bidirectional communication that is founded on trust, respect, and clear communication, riders can unlock the true potential of softness—a harmonious connection between two beings working together in unity, becoming the a living embodiment of a centaur.

02/02/2024

The internet is a wonderful thing at times! Dauphin Horsemanship’s Bit Course right off the bat is already extremely informative and well worth the time and money. If you put something on your horse’s head and use it to direct their bodies, you should learn about this.

22/01/2024

When is it too cold to work horses?

As with all things equine related, I’m sure opinions vary widely, and probably lots of emotionally charged ones.

Here’s my take:

I work in just about everything, except really cold and wet or ice. I adjust the work to suit the weather and try to be smart. Even on rain days, we can work in the barn, either doing body work or stationary or low movement in hand exercises.
If it’s really cold (below freezing) I spend most of the session loosening at the walk, and I’ll probably use a cooler to keep the horse’s back loose.

There’s always the chance to work on the small details and quiet work: things like refining leading, tying, standing for saddling, trailer loading, maybe going for a little trailer trip.

I try to take into account that much of horse’s excited behavior in the cold is due to not enough forage and tight muscles, so I feed plenty and keep backs warm. It heads off a lot of the friskies, and I think it’s important for horses to learn they can work (in appropriate ways) in lots of kinds of weather.

Take into account too that I live in North Carolina, so winter is lighter than some- but I kept the same practices living in northern Michigan.

If you wait for perfect weather to ride, you’ll never get anything done!

21/01/2024

🐴 When delving into the world of horse training, there's a choice between two mindsets: Replicator or Innovator. Opting for the Replicator path means sticking to the old ways or remaining within the confines of a training system. As a Replicator, you may understand only the mechanics, missing the uniqueness of each horse before you. In the long run, this does a disservice not only to the horse but also to yourself and the art within your career. On the other hand, if you're all about shaking things up, solving challenges, and pushing boundaries, then you're an Innovator. Innovators blaze new trails, setting the framework for the art of horsemanship to transcend current limits. They push themselves for a deeper understanding of the horse and the continual improvement of the art, not for applause or fanfare. Ready to evolve? The choice is yours!

09/01/2024

Its January. Spread lime, Time to setup 2024 records, schedule spring shots, Truck and equipment maintenance, barn & fence repairs, manure pile maintenance, drag pastures, clean barn, paddock, and run-ins.

07/01/2024

In the woeld of horsemanship, many strive to attain softness, yet it proves as elusive as a snow leopard. Softness resides at the core of form, structure, balance, and intention. Excessive focus on any one element allows softness to slip through the cracks.