LESSONS IN LIGHTNESS IBD

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Mark Russell (1951-2016) explains the theories and methods of the Old Masters in his easy-to-implement progression suitable for educating the riding horse in all disciplines.áLessons in Lightness offers the rider the concept of educating rather than training the horse using relaxation as the cornerstone. A tense horse has difficulty assimilating new information, yet relaxation often can be a difficult state to achieve. Mark Russell demonstrates not only how to attain relaxation but also how to maintain it throughout the horse&rsquo,s education.áFollowing Mark&rsquo,s well-illustrated advice, energy is created in the horse without tension, the resultant free-flowing energy can be merely directed instead of forced. The progression of obtaining relaxation is fully explained by first accessing the horse&rsquo,s jaw, then working down the entire spine to the hind feet. The method incorporates all lateral movements, in-hand work and under-saddle work in all gaits.áEducated using this progression, the horse will develop flexion and strength in a bio-mechanically beneficial way while avoiding emotional stress and physical strain.áIn this vein, Lessons in Lightness is written with the horse&rsquo,s perspective in mind.After working with horses in a variety of capacities, Mark studied with Master Nuno Oliveira and, according to Mark, this &ldquo,changed everything.&rdquo, Mark enriched his horsemanship with his practice of Tai Chi, Chi Gung, and Natural Horsemanship. Mark was a popular clinician who was uniquely able to assist all horses and riders, regardless of their experience level in their chosen discipline.Mark Russell was tragically killed in a riding accident on June 12, 2016. Mark&rsquo,s wife, Hela is committed to preserving his life&rsquo,s work. For more information visit www.naturaldressage.com.