Stop, Look and Listen

Really listening is a learned skill that provides deep information--so is looking. There is no pre-determined plan. The first thing Susanne does is observe.  You warm up the way you always do, you tell her how you feel, how the horse feels--she may give a couple of directions in order to see something specific during the warmup. She is looking for details about you and your horse,
  • Do you feel balanced?  
  • Does your horse look balanced?  
  • Is the horse forward or behind the leg?
  • Do you seem like you are listening to each other?
This skilled observation leads to designing the day's lesson for you.

It's all about you

What's your learning style? Are you verbal? Do you have to feel something in order to understand it?  Perhaps you like to see information.  

What key piece is missing from your ride today? Did you have a struggle getting straight yesterday but there is no sign of it today?

Susanne will assess with you what is going right and what missing piece is the right one to address in this lesson on this day. Then she will help you through the day's challenge in the way that makes sense to you. 

On your own

It's very important to Susanne that when she leaves, you aren't left with questions, and you are left with tools! When the lesson ends you will understand the piece that you worked on and you will be armed with information, tools and next steps. You will be able to work on your own or with your regular trainer to improve. The goal is a harmonious pair balanced in motion.