Simple, Consistent, Effective
Horsemanship is more than just the ability to guide and steer your horse. While it can be confusing and complicated at times, we believe strongly that simple is best! With the use of Classical Dressage principles, Life Coaching techniques, Critical & Dialectic Thinking we constantly strive to bridge the gap between the simple and seemingly impossible.
All of the techniques and methods used by Awareness In Riding can be applied to any discipline, horse and rider. It isn't just the techniques used however, but the intention behind the technique, which is why AIR integrates Life Coaching, Critical & Dialectic Thinking into the process of riding and training.
AIR was formed with the belief that more emphasis is needed in the simplification and logical development of riding and training. As more new techniques for training come about, coupled with their patented tools and gimmicks, it seems that the road to understanding the horse becomes more winding and difficult than ever before. AIR puts emphasis on specificity, that is, knowing exactly what you want before making any attempts to achieve it. We believe that is half of the process alone.
AIR is all about the simple. Based upon the idea that nothing can be forced, the results that come about as a result are often astounding to those unfamiliar. Whether you simply want to have a pleasant ride down the trail, or want to pursue international competition, AIR has the bricks needed to pave your rocky road. Ever found yourself huffing and puffing, out of breath, out of patience, out of control? Take a break from all of the stress and rediscover the simplicity of equitation, based on a classical model.
Lightness Starts In The Mind
In a day and age when lightness is commonly thrown around to describe not only the horse, but also the rider, we have found it needs some reconstruction. Lightness may be something we all seek in the communication we have with our horses, but it is not a physical element that begins with the hands or legs. Lightness begins in the mind, it is a way of thinking, of being. It is not through the use of force or physically based methods that we gain lightness with the horse. It is by the influence on his mind, enabling the horse to control his own body in a manner which is harmonious with our desires. Our horses are highly intuitive to what we are thinking and feeling as well, we outpour energy based on our thoughts, and they will follow that energy in a very predictable way. AIR helps map out this predictibility in a way that is simple to understand and implement.
We Set The Example
Horses have often been considered mirrors to their riders, and while on a superficial level this may seem cute or quaint, for experienced and sensitive riders it is all too obvious just how strongly they paint our own portrait back to us time and again. When we as riders fail to deal with our emotions, the horse will display to us just what we are not working through. When we have issues at work, school, at home, with a friend, etc. the horse mirrors it right back to us. In many ways, they are there to help tell us that we need to deal with this issue before we move forward with our relationship with the horse. They give us an opportunity to see what blocks we are avoiding in our lives. Because of this, many riders can become frustrated as they continue to face the same issues or problems over and over again with their horse, or with several horses, and not understanding why.
When we want our horses to face their fears, deal with their emotions, and build a solid relationship with humans, we must first do the same by dealing with these road blocks that have been set up over our lives. Once they are taken down, the frustrations vanish and the issues seem to melt away. When we resist the road blocks, we will also experience mounting resistance from our horses.
Even Learning Has A Road Map
AIR's goal is to develop riders who are intelligent in their riding and training, and overall interactions with horses. Riders who think and ride with all of their senses, who learn what questions to ask, when to ask them, how to ask for clarity, and how to take care of themselves. There is no service in allowing yourself to be abused by harsh instructors or trainers, or to work a horse who puts your life in danger. The same goes in regards to your horse, and when riders understand how to protect themselves it carries over to their horse as well, and they become more compassionate to the needs of their horse. This is our ultimate goal, because when you understand these few simple ideas, you can achieve your equestrian dreams no matter their size!
AIR offers riding lessons, training, and other educational opportunities such as clinics, lectures and workshops. From the ground up, a solid foundation in the mind and in the body gets riders headed in the right direction. We start wtih seat training for a physically balanced and centered foundation, and lead into the elements of a curious and questioning mind with our workshops!
Educational Resources
AIR has also stepped foot in the publishing business, aiming to provide quality educational resources! Check out our first project, "Centered Self, Centered Horse," now in print!
AIR is also proud to organize several clinics, workshops and classes throughout the year to support riders in their quest for learning. With topics that range far and wide, we offer something for every rider from beginner to professional.
WELCOME TO AIR!
