A few notes and points that came up:
We talked about visualizing a bubble - which has boundaries which both the horse and you need to respect. You can't expect horse to focus if you have left the bubble mentally or physically, and if the horse leaves the bubble then remind her of her responsibilities.
When you instigate a movement with the horse, think "we" are going sideways etc.
The bubble is not always round, it depends on the movement.
Thought, energy, body cue and if necessary the stick supports and says "are you listening?". Always start with what you want, reinforce if necessary, and be sure to only release to what you want, so if you need to use the stick to get the desired response, do not release on that, continue asking with thought until you can release to a try on that.
Be effective; don't let the boundaries be vague.
How this works in sideways: strong focus, strong boundaries.
Switching from focused energy to dispersed energy, making me aware of my body language and energy, and helping Fina to understand that she should not respond until you give focus and direct the energy towards her.
Long and low massage in movement. In walk, causing her to stretch by massaging spots on neck and along body line corresponding to spine. Find tight spots. Stick and rope in outer hand to block if necessary, looking for slack in rope. Body asks for low.
Online on circle, moving different parts of horse's body to flex and cause her to be more supple. Constant conversation, play with it and observe.
First get the walk/trot you want, before asking anything else.
Look for the sweet spot when you get the desired flexion, it might be between flexing inwards and turning away, might come and go so be ready to release and encourage the one you want.
Seraphina was a star, it was hot even in the mornings, and the flies were very distracting and bothersome, but we gave her plenty of breaks and time for reflection in between tasks, and as we discussed them.
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