Philosophy
Community: Unity in the Herd!
ELS is not only about meeting amazing horses but also meeting like-minded people. The atmosphere is one of safety, acceptance and learning.
Our ELS clients are open-minded learners who want to connect with something outside of themselves. Their attitude is progressive and they are flexible in their thinking. The ELS client knows, or at least suspects, that the skills they learn and use relating to horses is transferable to relating to people. By increasing their awareness of how horses behave the ELS client increases their awareness of their own behavior and the behavior of others. The ELS client’s attitude is “I am open to receiving new information and to exploring the possibilities that result”.
Bottom Line: At ELS attitude is everything!
Drama-Free
We value and maintain a fun, stress-free learning environment. We believe that for both humans and horses, more learning takes place in a calm environment with minimal fear and confusion. We do not yell at our horses or our students. We do not hit, pull or kick our horses. We believe that when horses and humans are valued and treated with respect, they cooperate through willingness and not because of fear, intimidation or force.
Bottom Line: Happy horses make happy, safe riders.
Individual Focus
At Equine Life Solutions, every rider and horse is treated as an individual so that both get the most out of the teaching / learning experience. Whether you want to get on a horse for the first time or improve your skills in Dressage, Hunter-Jumper, Endurance or Trail, we will provide a confidence-building training program incorporating successful Natural Horsemanship methods.
Bottom Line: Programs are tailored to build confidence and skills, regardless of experience or riding discipline.
Partners, not Passengers
Our riding philosophy is rooted in teaching students to work with a horse’s natural motion and instincts. This begins with balanced seat riding. No matter what type of saddle the horse wears or the style of riding you choose, a balanced seat creates safety and comfort for both horse and rider. We also teach communication through subtle body language that the horse understands and correctly interprets. These techniques help riders understand and appreciate their role as partner and not passenger.
Bottom Line: Riding is an active pursuit engaging both horse and rider.
Natural Horsemanship Principles:
Natural Horsemanship is the practice of communicating with horses in ways that appeal to their instincts and herd mentality. This natural, mutual approach allows horses to feel calm and safe and often results in an extremely strong bond between horse and human. At Equine Life Solutions, we infuse the principles and techniques of Natural Horsemanship throughout our programs. This enriches the experience for our students and horses, and lays the foundation for teaching life lessons through equine relationships.*
Bottom Line: We help students relate to horses mentally, emotionally and physically in a way they understand.
Life lessons:
For youth and adults, Natural Horsemanship can teach valuable lessons with benefits reaching far beyond the barn. Natural Horsemanship teaches teamwork, the benefits of clear and mutual communication, the importance of being present and patient, and how to be a good partner / leader and not a dictator. Here at Equine Life Solutions, these important life lessons are woven throughout the training and lesson programs.
Bottom Line: Through interacting with horses we gain insight into ourselves and others.
*Please note: While we are a Natural Horsemanship stable committed to practicing ‘kinder’ techniques and principles, learning Natural Horsemanship in its true form is a journey best taken between a horse and his or her dedicated human. Building this relationship of trust and respect requires an extraordinary amount of time, patience and commitment. For students who have their own horse and an intense desire to build a deeper relationship of trust and respect with their equine partner, check out our Natural Horsemanship Training program.