Linea Equis

Horses & Healing Project

“The Feldenkrais Method has not only helped me out of chronic pain but improved my riding tremendously through reducing tension and increasing suppleness, while highly increasing my body awareness and refining my aids!” Felicitas von Neumann-Cosel

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The Feldenkrais Method helps riders improve balance, coordination, posture, and subtle communication with their horse by increasing bodily awareness both off and on the horse. Research and practitioner reports show that as riders refine their movement and use of the seat, their horses move more freely, respond more readily, and the rider experiences more efficient, effortless riding.

Information & Feldenkrais and Horseback Riding

1. “The Feldenkrais Method® and Its Application to Riding” (Margreet Bouwmeester)

A paper (PDF) that lays out how Feldenkrais principles may apply to equestrians. YMAWS

It frames the work in the four stages: awareness, differentiation, choice, freedom.

It argues that riders can learn to use their bones structurally (rather than over-activating muscles) to support posture, alignment, and movement.

It discusses how improved skeletal (vs muscular) functioning, more supple joints, soft knees/ankles, easier breathing, and being more responsive in movement can support riding.
The paper includes sample “slow movement” exercises (off the horse) intended to help riders notice habitual holding/tension and explore freer movement.

2. Dressage Today: “Unlock Your Riding Potential with Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement®”

An article that describes how riders are using Feldenkrais to refine biomechanics, reduce tension, address asymmetry, and improve “feel.” Dressage Today

It mentions that many riders struggle with asymmetry, and that Feldenkrais can help bring more balance between sides.
It also cites cases of riders recovering from chronic stiffness or pain, with benefits in both comfort and performance.
The article highlights that the method is not exercise in the conventional sense; rather, it’s a process of “rewiring” how your nervous system and body relate to movement.

3. Podcast & Method Blends – Dave Thind / “DTM” (Feldenkrais + Equestrian Training)

Dave Thind’s method integrates Feldenkrais (Awareness Through Movement + hands-on) with classical equestrian training. Wehorse+1
In the podcast “Improving Your Seat & Aids with Dave Thind,” he speaks about helping riders “release physical and mental tension,” ride with softer feel, and improve communication with the horse. Wehorse
In the Dressage Today article, he’s mentioned as a teacher in this domain, helping with posture, asymmetry, and addressing riders’ chronic stiffness. Dressage Today

Client Feedback

"After one session with Mary I was able to open my jaw without clicking for the first time in 15 years. It was pretty incredible "

"I limped into the building and walked out! It was amazing. The acute pain in my foot is gone"

"After my treatment, I was sitting taller and my muscles were completely free of tension. I slept better that night than I have in a very long time."

"Mary is an excellent, excellent instructor. Her warmth and passion really comes through in her lessons and makes for a really great experience. "

"I can tell I was walking taller as I left, and I felt less tension in my upper back."

" I usually get deep tissue massage, but her technique results in the same pain relief, without those moments of "Oh, that hurts so much"