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If you've spent any time in the horse world, you've probably been taught to watch for releases — the yawning, blinking, eye-rolling, and head-dropping that signal your horse is relaxing. But what if chasing those moments is actually getting in your way?

In this episode, Mary digs into why relaxation alone — even genuine relaxation — is only half of what your horse's nervous system needs. Drawing on a relatable human example (that stubborn tension at the base of your neck?), she explains the difference between treating a symptom and addressing the underlying pattern. That's where the Debono Moves approach comes in: helping the parts of the body that are overworking finally let go, and waking up the parts that haven't been doing their fair share. 

That balance of relaxation AND activation — what Mary calls integration — is what creates change that actually lasts beyond the session. 

But here's where it gets even more interesting. Your horse doesn't exist in isolation. You are always part of the picture, whether you're riding, doing groundwork, or working hands-on. Mary introduces the concept of H² — the horse-human system — and explains why your own integration, your own ease of movement and awareness, directly shapes what your horse can access. 

When you do your own FeldenkraisⓇ practice, you don't just move better. You bring something different to your horse. Your hands change. Your presence changes. And your horse feels every bit of it.

This is where real depth of connection lives.

Resources:

💥Learn how the Feldenkrais MethodⓇ can help improve your seat, position, and balance on your horse! Free rider videos masterclass: https://www.marydebono.com/rider 💥

Grab your FREE video training to help your dog. 🐕 https://www.marydebono.com/lovedog 💥

Get Mary’s bestselling, award-winning book, “Grow Young with Your Dog,” for a super low price at: https://tinyurl.com/growyoungwithyourdog. Demonstration videos are included at no extra cost. ⬅️⬅️⬅️

All information is for general educational purposes ONLY and doesn't constitute medical or veterinary advice or professional training advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider if you, your horse, or your dog are unwell or injured.  Always use extreme caution when interacting with horses and dogs.

About the Host:

Mary Debono is a pioneer in animal and human wellness, blending her expertise as an international clinician, best-selling author, and certified Feldenkrais Method® practitioner. With over three decades of experience, Mary developed Debono Moves, a groundbreaking approach that enhances the performance, well-being, and partnership of animals and their humans.

Mary's innovative approach draws from the Feldenkrais Method®, tailored specifically for horse and dog enthusiasts.  Her methods have helped animals and humans:

• Improve athletic ability and performance
• Enhance confidence and reduce anxiety
• Reduce physical limitations and discomfort
• Deepen the human-animal bond

Mary's flagship online programs, "Move with Your Horse" and "Easier Movement, Happier Dogs," provide animal enthusiasts with an innovative approach that combines the concepts of Feldenkrais® with her signature hands-on work for horses and dogs (Debono Moves). Through this transformative approach, both people and their animal companions discover greater harmony, ease, and connection.