{"product_id":"lessons-in-lightness-expanded-edition-9781948717502","title":"Lessons in Lightness Expanded Edition","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLessons in Lightness Expanded Edition\u003c\/em\u003e by Mark Russell, published posthumously, further advances the concept of \u003cem\u003eArt Form Riding\u003c\/em\u003e first presented in the 2004 edition of\u003cem\u003eLessons in Lightness\u003c\/em\u003e. Soft shaping and the development of the horse's flexibility, balance, and strength through a heightened sense of relaxation, this approach teaches us that \u003cem\u003emobility\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003egives forward. \u003c\/em\u003eThrough logical gymnastic progressions, a positive feedback loop of relaxation, flexibility, and strength develops. From these progressions, energy springs forth so horses work in concert with their riders with calmness and exuberance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaintaining both relaxation and balance in a forward mindset can be a difficult state to achieve. \u003cem\u003eLessons in Lightness Full Color Expanded Edition\u003c\/em\u003e offers in-depth guidance on how to create this often elusive combination.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProgressions include: \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e- Accessing the horse's jaw and spine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e- Teaching the horse that the bit is an indicator for relaxation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e- Development of the horse's often over-looked balance-inducing postural muscles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e- Development of flexion and strength through lateral movements and rein-back in relaxed postures.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e- Necessary for success, each lesson begins in hand before progressing under saddle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA new chapter entitled \u003cem\u003eThe Hidden Influences of the Bridle: The Stomatognathic System\u003c\/em\u003eby Jillian Kreinbring M. S. underlines an expanded focus on equine biomechanics. Understanding the horse's functional anatomy is highlighted throughout this edition; it is the key to avoiding many common roadblocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the 1980's Mark studied with Master Nuno Oliveira. He practiced Tai Chi and Chi Gong for decades. Later Mark infused certain Natural Horsemanship philosophies into his practice. Mark's gifts were to \u003cem\u003esee\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eunderstand\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003emaintain\u003c\/em\u003e an approach that did not stray from these unifying philosophies. Mark Russell lost his life on June 12, 2016. Mark's wife, Hela, is committed to preserving his life's work. For more information, Visit www.naturaldressage.com\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Xenophon Press LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50631842758930,"sku":"9781948717502","price":36.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_82a249ba-3685-4b0c-a0b1-e1671090ed34.jpg?v=1732785713","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/lessons-in-lightness-expanded-edition-9781948717502","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}