Unleashing the Power of Horses: The Balance Through Movement Method™
When we think of training horses, we often focus on the physical aspects, such as strength and agility. However, there is an approach that delves deeper into the very essence of a horse's being, unlocking their true potential and harmony. The Balance Through Movement Method™ is a revolutionary performance development training system for horses that goes beyond conventional techniques. Developed by the visionary horse trainer Celeste-Leilani Lazaris in the United States, this method centers around nurturing the body and mind of the horse through five essential elements: the thoracic sling, spinal integrity, nerve protection, proprioceptive work, and emotional regulation. In this blog, I explain my own understanding of the method, taken from my own journey in the self-study membership.
Understanding the Thoracic Sling: A Foundation for Equine Balance
At the core of the Balance Through Movement Method™ lies the concept of the "thoracic sling." This mechanism is a group of interconnected muscles that suspends the horse's chest between its forelimbs. Just like the keystone of an arch, the thoracic sling plays a vital role in supporting the horse's musculoskeletal system and protecting the organs within the ribcage. When the thoracic sling functions optimally, it promotes proper posture, movement, and balance throughout the entire body. On the other hand, dysfunction in this area can lead to various issues that affect the horse's overall performance.
Signs of Thoracic Sling Dysfunction
Recognizing signs of thoracic sling dysfunction can be crucial in identifying areas that need attention and improvement. Some common indicators include:
Downhill Posture: A horse lacking proper contraction of its sling muscles may appear to travel downhill and be "on the forehand," meaning more weight is placed on the front legs.
Neck and Withers Transition: A smooth and seamless blend of the neck into the withers indicates a well-developed thoracic sling. However, a noticeable dip just in front of the withers may suggest an underdeveloped and strained thoracic sling.
Front Leg Stance: The positioning of the horse's front legs can provide insights into the condition of the thoracic sling muscles. Legs pushed far back under the body may indicate tightness in this area.
Chest Development: A well-developed chest with strong pectoral muscles gives the horse a broader appearance, whereas weak pectorals can lead to a narrower chest and a base narrow posture.
The Three Pillars: The Roadmap to Success
The Balance Through Movement Method™ is built upon three foundational pillars, and each must be firmly established before progressing to the next:
Connection & Relationship to Contact: This pillar focuses on encouraging the horse to soften its lower neck muscles, promoting a shift from a fight/flight/freeze/fawn response to a state of rest and relaxation. By deactivating the neck muscles, the horse learns to carry its weight using the thoracic sling, leading to true self-carriage.
Engagement & Center of Gravity: In this pillar, the emphasis is on bringing the horse's energy back to the center, effectively "rehabbing" its postural mechanisms. The horse remains in pillar 1 stance during this stage.
Integration & Spinal Integrity: The final pillar teaches the horse to independently use and strengthen its shoulder abductors while maintaining the principles of pillars 1 and 2. This empowers the horse to turn correctly on the reins, shifting weight to the outside rein and preserving spinal integrity.
Unlocking Your Horse's Potential: Take the First Step
If you've been searching for a training approach that goes beyond the surface and addresses the core elements of your horse's well-being, the Balance Through Movement Method™ is the answer. With the guidance of Celeste-Leilani Lazaris and her innovative system, you can unlock your horse's true potential, creating a stronger, more balanced, and emotionally regulated equine partner.
Join our community at https://www.balancethroughmovementmethod.com/ to stay connected, access valuable resources, and witness the incredible transformations that await you and your equine companion. The entire Pillar 1 is now available online, just follow this link
Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of your horse with the Balance Through Movement Method™. Act now and embrace the journey towards balance, harmony, and a deeper connection with your beloved equine partner. Your horse deserves the best – and that starts with you.
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