When Two Spines Align: Dressage Dynamics (EPUB) von Beth Baumert

Within riding exists a fundamental conflict of interest: The rider needs to have controlher confidence depends on her ability to control the balance of her own body as well as that of her very powerful horse. The horse, by nature, needs to feel freefree in both mind and body to express himself through movement.In When Two Spines Align, author Beth Baumert, writer and editor at the equestrian magazine Dressage Today, resolves the freedom-control enigma by taking a close look at the individual components that make up riding and dressage and providing practical ways riders can learn to harness the balance, energies, and forces at play. Readers will discover how to use positive tension” and their body’s power lines” to become balanced and effective in the saddle. They will then find ways to understand and manage the horse's balance and coordination challenges.” Ultimately, the rider learns to regulate and monitor the horse's rhythm, energy, flexion, alignment, bend, and line of travel by properly aligning her spine with his. When the center of gravity of a balanced rider is over the center of gravity of a balanced horse, that place where two spines align becomes the hub for rider and horse harmony.

Introduction: The Possibility of MagicPart One: How Riders WorkChapter 1: The Seat—The Place Where Two Spines MeetChapter 2: An Introduction to PowerlinesChapter 3: The Vertical Powerline—Power to GOChapter 4: The Connecting Powerline—Suppleness to STOPChapter 5: The Spiraling Powerline—Flexibility to TURNChapter 6: The Visual Powerline—Connecting to the Outside WorldChapter 7: Clear Aids for CommunicationPart Two: How Horses WorkChapter 8: Balance IssuesChapter 9: How the Horse's Weight Distribution ChangesChapter 10: Impulsion and EngagementChapter 11: Leverage for CollectionChapter 12: TransitionsChapter 13: Half-HaltsPart Three: How Two Spines Meet in BalanceChapter 14: RhythmChapter 15: EnergyChapter 16: Flexion of the PollChapter 17: Spinal AlignmentChapter 18: The BendChapter 19: The Height of the NeckChapter 20: The Length of StrideChapter 21: The Line of TravelChapter 22: Figures and MovementsConclusion: The Probability of Magic