The rigors of my job and the challenges with Tessi led me to a period of profound introspection with regards to my horsemanship journey. But I have emerged with renewed enthusiasm, joy and eagerness to learn and PLAY with my three horses. I have returned to the guidance of the natural horseman I most connect with, Pat Parelli. Starting with Level 1, with what in Budism is called Beginner Mind. Many years ago I attended several Parelli clinics and read all the material I could lay my hands on but I did not have the focus or will to really learn and apply the program in a systematic way - although I applied the general principles. But now I am ready to delve in deeper.
I feel so lucky to have some great teachers near by to guide me. My friend Sherrill is a Level 4 instructor and also 5 Star Instructor David Lichman lives near by. For a while I will be blogging about our Level 1 progress.
For those of you not familiar with Parelli, I encourage you to google Parelli for some insight on this teaching method and philosophy of leadership. The student must learn the 7 Games which are the building blocks for all other manoevers, whether in the saddle or on the ground. The 7 Games are:
1. The Friendly Game
2. The Porcupine Game
3. The Driving Game
4. The Yo yo game
5. The Circling Game
6. The Sideways Game
7. The Squeeze Game
I can do all 7 games with all three mares but I still need to refine them. Surprisingly, Tessi does the games the best.
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