As the year draws to a close and the horses at the Equestrian Spirit School of Holistic Riding prepare for a well-deserved break, it's that time when reflection becomes the compass guiding us through the past months. The question echoes in the crisp air, "Where did the year go, what milestones did we achieve, and how can we enhance our endeavors in the upcoming year?"

These musings extend beyond the stables, encompassing not just the equine partners but also you – the riders, enthusiasts, and fellow participants in the equestrian journey.

This juncture provides an opportune moment to share our most significant take-home lessons for 2023. It's a lesson not just for the horses but a shared insight that we, as a community, have garnered throughout the year. In this episode of the First Do No Harm Podcast, I delve into some of my favorite training methodologies and exercises shared by our esteemed podcast guests. These insights have not only enriched our understanding but have also found practical application in the holistic approach we uphold at the school.

As ever, a standout lesson that resonates profoundly is the emphasis on mindfulness in training. In an era where how fast we can turn out a winning show horse often takes precedence, slowing down and fostering a mindful connection with the horses is a pivotal aspect of our training philosophy. This approach is a reminder that every interaction with a horse is an opportunity for mutual understanding and growth. It's not just about the destination, the ribbons and the accolades; it's about savoring the journey and appreciating the nuances of each moment.

Another invaluable lesson derived from our podcast discussions revolves around the significance of individualized training. Horses, like humans, are unique beings with distinct personalities and learning styles. Tailoring our training methods to suit each horse's temperament and preferences is transformative. This personalized approach has not only enhanced the horses' receptiveness but has also deepened the bond between riders and their equine counterparts. In listening to our horses needs we develop more empathy in our riding and expectations for ourselves and our horses

Conversations inevitably circle back to groundwork exercises. Not because we need a range of tricks up our sleeve to perform to prove ourselves to others but because it is easiest to build a felt sense of safety for both horse and rider on the ground and we can read their responses and build more clarity into our cues on the ground as well. Groundwork sessions are instrumental in fostering communication and building trust. These exercises, rooted in respect and clear communication, transcend the traditional notions of dominance in training. They exemplify the power of collaboration and partnership in achieving desired outcomes.

As we bid adieu to 2023, our journey is not just a reflection of the past but a roadmap for the future. The lessons learned pave the way for an enriched and enlightened approach in the coming year. It's not about sweeping transformations but about subtle shifts in perspective and a commitment to continuous improvement.

So, what's in store for you in the upcoming year? How can you integrate these lessons into your equestrian endeavors? The beauty of the equestrian journey lies in its ever-evolving nature, and as we embrace the lessons of 2023, we look forward to a year of growth, connection, and shared wisdom.

The biggest take-home lesson for 2023 is a collective realization – a recognition that our equestrian journey is a tapestry woven with shared insights, individual growth, and a commitment to the well-being of both horse and rider. As the ponies take their well-deserved vacation, we embark on a moment of reflection, gratitude, and anticipation for the chapters that await in the new year.