Easier Movement, Happier Life

Send Mary a message In this episode, we explore the concept of reframing and its impact on your equestrian journey. Host Mary Debono shares personal anecdotes and practical examples to illustrate how changing your perspective can revolutionize your approach to challenges, both in and out of the saddle. Mary emphasizes that reframing is not about sugarcoating difficulties, but about finding actiona...

Send Mary a message You can learn the secret to your horse being able to round the back easily. This episode explores how the sternum and ribs can help—or hinder—a horse's ability to collect, and introduces a gentle, hands-on method to help horses rediscover comfortable movement, leading to improved performance and well-being. You’ll also learn the difference between "leg movers" an...

Send Mary a message In this episode, we delve into the importance of the body-mind connection with equine interactions. Host Mary Debono shares insights on harnessing this powerful link to improve your relationship with your horse and enhance your overall riding experience. Key topics include: Understanding the bidirectional nature of the body-mind connection Practical tips for managing anxiety an...

Send Mary a message In this episode, Mary Debono shares the unexpected benefits of Equine Debono Moves for both horses and humans. Inspired by Mary's studies in the Feldenkrais Method Ⓡ, Debono Moves was originally designed to help horses move more freely and reduce tension. But as you'll hear, this gentle hands-on work can be a two-way street of healing and connection. Mary recounts a r...

Send Mary a message In this episode of Easier Movement, Happier Horses , Mary Debono continues her exploration of how to enhance your horse's learning and movement capabilities. Building on the principles of the Feldenkrais Method, Mary discusses the importance of changing the context during practice sessions to help both you and your horse better integrate new skills.  By varying the environ...

Send Mary a message In this episode, Mary Debono continues her discussion on how to work with your horse's existing habits to encourage ease and comfort. Building on concepts from previous episodes, Mary explains the importance of introducing novel, non-habitual movements that engage the horse's nervous system in a positive way. These movements do more than just improve your horse's...

Send Mary a message In this episode, Mary Debono builds on the previous discussion about why it’s crucial to work with, rather than against, a horse’s current movement patterns. Mary explains how supporting a horse’s tendency for spinal extension, for instance, can be the first step in helping the horse discover healthier movement options, like flexion and rounding. By exaggerating and then gently...

Send Mary a message  In this episode of "Easier Movement, Happier Horses," Mary Debono delves into the often-overlooked concept of working WITH a horse's current movement patterns, however "incorrect" we may think they are, instead of trying to force a change.  Mary explains how many equestrians, in their desire to help their horses move better, may inadvertently cause dis...

Send Mary a message In this episode, Mary tackles a common question: " Can you really increase flexibility and strength without stretching or pushing your limits?" Drawing from the Feldenkrais Method, Mary explains how improving body awareness and reducing unnecessary tension can lead to greater strength and flexibility. Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to move more easil...

Send Mary a message 💥Get all the program details here: https://tinyurl.com/mwyh-0824 . 💥 Body, Mind, and Connection. These are the three pillars that support a harmonious connection with your horse. In this episode, you'll learn why - and how to strengthen those pillars. Unlock your potential as an equestrian with the Move with Your Horse Foundations  program , a transformative 10-week jour...

Send Mary a message 💥Want to learn more? Join the Move with Your Horse waitlist!💥 https://www.marydebono.com/joinhorse 🐴 In this episode, we conclude our six-step series on creating horse-human harmony. Step Six is the crucial final step: exploring and enjoying movement with your horse, both on the ground and in the saddle. Key highlights: - A comprehensive review of all six steps to horse-huma...

Send Mary a message 💥 Get a free audio/video exercise at: marydebono.com/breathinghorse 💥 Learn about Steps 3, 4, and 5 of the Six Steps to Creating Horse-Human Harmony.  Discover how to use your hands to relieve your horse's tension and improve their movement and well-being.  In this episode, you'll hear practical tips to help your horse feel more comfortable and connected, including...

Send Mary a message 💥 Get your special gift at: marydebono.com/breathinghorse 💥 Mary Debono explores step two of her six-step framework for creating harmony between you and your horse. This bonus episode focuses on the importance of intention, breath, and loving energy in connecting with your horse. Mary shares personal anecdotes and practical tips, along with a free audio/video exercise availab...

Send Mary a message In this episode, you'll learn all about Step 1 of the Six Steps to Creating Horse-Human Harmony. You'll hear Mary explain how enhancing your body awareness can lead to better communication, trust, and overall well-being for you and your horse. Mary Debono, an expert in the Feldenkrais Method and creator of D ebono Moves, guides you through practical strategies to impr...

Send Mary a message To join the Move with Your Horse waitlist, click here! 💥 In this episode, we delve into the core issues that equestrians face, both for themselves and their horses. Whether it's stiff hips, an aching back, or a horse that's resistant or stiff, these concerns all boil down to one essential desire: achieving greater harmony with your horse. Join Mary Debono as she intr...

Send Mary a message  In this episode, Mary Debono shares a transformative shift in her approach to helping riders achieve their best. Moving beyond the traditional focus on balance in the saddle, Mary introduces the concept of "biological optimism," highlighting the potential for improvement at any age or fitness level. Through her extensive experience with the Feldenkrais Method , Mary...

Send Mary a message Have you ever wondered how to transform a sensitive, easily spooked, or defensive horse into a confident and relaxed partner? You'll hear about specific cases where observing subtle cues and applying gentle, supportive touch made a significant difference in a horse's emotional and physical well-being. We'll also explore the art of understanding and communicating...

Send Mary a message What if horse training could be more about partnership and mutual respect than following rigid regimes? On this episode of the Easier Movement, Happier Horses podcast, Mary Debono uncovers the transformative approach of facilitating learning opportunities for your horse. By focusing on what your horse already finds easy and gently expanding on that, you can build a cooperative...

Send Mary a message Can the way you think about your body transform your riding experience? Join me, Mary Debono, on the Easier Movement, Happier Horses podcast as we explore a crucial concept for equestrians: understanding the difference between using body parts in isolation versus independently. This might sound like a subtle shift, but it can lead to a profound improvement in your movement coor...

Send Mary a message Are there things about yourself or your horse that you'd like to fix? In this episode, I challenge the notion that you or your horse needs fixing. Instead, we embrace a holistic approach. Drawing on my 30 years of experience as a Feldenkrais teacher specializing in horses and riders, I explain how our nervous systems develop habits and how, by working in harmony with these...

Send Mary a message Beyond better performance , learn how improved movement can boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and create a deeper connection between you and your horse. Discover ways to make saddling up a positive experience and explore a holistic approach to movement that unlocks a happier you and a happier horse. Beyond Performance: Boost Confidence : Discover how improved suppleness can boo...

Send Mary a message Key Takeaways - Pulling on the tail can harm horses with back tightness, triggering a defensive response - Instead of pulling, support the tail forward to relax the muscles - Focus on building trust and offering new options to the horse - Prioritize somatic education and integrated movement over structural manipulation - Consider the "Move with Your Horse" program for...

Send Mary a message Injury keeping you out of the saddle? Learn actionable steps to help you stay connected to your horse, facilitate your healing, and improve your horsemanship. Learn about mindful movement, mental training, and creative ground exercises. Use your recovery time to deepen your connection with your horse and come back to riding even stronger than before! Use your recovery time to i...

Send Mary a message Horse sidelined with an injury? Don't despair! Join Mary Debono, your equine expert, as she unveils the silver lining within stall rest. In this episode, you'll discover how to transform recovery time into relationship-building gold. Master the art of mindful movement: Discover the magic of hand-walking in sync with your horse, fostering a deeper understanding of your...

Send Mary a message Does your horse sometimes seem reluctant or struggle with the activities you've chosen?  Too often, owners force horses into roles or disciplines unsuitable for their physical abilities or temperament. The key to harmony is finding mutually enjoyable activities for both horse and human. While challenging our horses is important, we must also respect their individual needs...