Michaela Hempen

Hi, In the last email, I introduced you to the Feldenkrais-inspired lateral flexions and how you can teach it with a your “listening” hands. Using your hands, you get a better FEEL for this very subtle movement. It will make it easier for you to request it with a similar softness through the lead rope … Read more

Hi, In German equitation, we differentiate between various types of bend and flexions. It is difficult to transmit these nuances in English, where all of them are covered by the same term “flexion”. You can differentiate between flexions around the horizontal and vertical axis. A flexion around a horizontal axis includes descriptions such as “behind … Read more

Hi, In the last email we explored how to teach self-haltering. Now we want to take our horse out of the stall. Leading is a skill than needs to be taught. This needs to be emphasised, so let me repeat it: Leading is a skill than needs to be taught.Many people take it for granted … Read more

Hi, One of the first things you may want to teach your young horse is self-haltering, which means that you present the halter, and she puts her head inside. All you need to do is to close it and give her a treat. I am so used to having self-haltering horses that I am honestly … Read more