It's been a long time since posting, namely because I have been trying to understand where we went wrong. I figured, if I posted a blog all the time about how frustrated I was over not knowing what to do with Honey, then there would be a lot of pointless words and thoughts posted here. It's taken me to now, getting advice, trying things out, and reading up to realise how detrimental and ignorant I was on bringing Honey back into work. I was more focussed on showing myself I can still ride, and jumped right into the basics of dressage - albeit Honey offered, I never asked her from the beginning - but all the same this has caused a sore horse who is not a happy camper in the slightest.
But I feel at least, I have tried my best to figure the problem out, have sought advice, and am now booking in for a chiropractor to come out to Honey. I've spent the last two weeks online browsing similar situations, and learning from my mistake by reading well thought out plans and then that led me into studying. I'm actually quite thrilled. It's been a few years that I've purposely gone to the library to pick up specific horse books for study (normally use the internet and horse and pony magazines), and at the moment I'm reading "Centred Riding" by Sally Swift, a book I read when I was about 16-17. It's really an eye opener... with how much I've slipped backwards when busy doing our my thing.
I wasn't rough on Honey bringing her back into work ... but I wasn't considerate as much as I should have been. There are things I could have done better, things I didn't realise I was doing, and the situation was a bit sticky. But now, I have a great plan set up, will take on board the advice given to me by the chiropractor coming out to Honey, and also will work to improve myself constantly. I was so worried about thumbs on top and heels down, that I forgot that breathing, and body awareness are a huge key in not blocking Honey. I know I have a habit of forgetting to breathe in the saddle sometimes... without even being aware of it! I'm so looking forward to the opportunity of trying some great techniques I've been reading up on to help with myself and Honey too. And to correct some minor issues I had. Further more, I'm looking forward to riding again.
Especially since tomorrow this time I'll be able to glance across my room and see my very own Wintec Isabell sitting there! I've waited six darn years for this opportunity and now I finally will have the saddle I need for my leg. I'm sure Honey and I will go leaps and bounds ahead when we're both ready for ridden work again.
And speaking of getting myself ready... I've gotten very serious. I'm on a diet, I'm exercising daily and I'm working hard to become the best I've ever been. For myself, and for my horse! So thrilled!
Well thats the update. Will post again when Honey's had her visit and hopefully get back into the swing of things! ^_^
x
