february 15, 2022

Bitter past few days with single digit temps. Lesson with Karl after two days off was lovely. He was very soft and finding his own balance on the right shoulder really well. Rather than lots of small/quick whip movements, in the moment before he steps out hold the whip in the focus area for few moments until he responds and then return to neutral to isolate and clarify the aid. Wait to go to neutral until desired response is shown effort. Eventually you can use less and less. Worked on changing directions and just moving the tools from one side to the other so I could keep my body position the same - same tempo and alignment while changing over the tools. This helped keep activity through the change of direction. In the side position I had some emotion, but only in the first ask and then he was quite soft and willing. Nice draw with my energy to keep the circle in my area.

Liberty work was really fun. Started to play with connecting and trying to draw him to me. I had one draw and it felt so amazing, the energy between us was electric, filling up my bones.

Also learned about psoas muscles - the “core” of your seat when riding. The only muscles that connect your legs to your pelvis and spine. Activating these puts you in your deepest seat and most contact with your horse. Imagining flattening lower back against the wall, or belly button closer to the spine.