Reciprocity with Horses

Over the years, we've learned that true horsemanship isn't about control or performance—it's about relationship. It's about listening, learning, and responding to the unique needs of each horse. It's about creating a culture where horses thrive physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and where the humans they carry learn to become better stewards of all life.

Below, we share five of the ways we practice reciprocity with our beloved herd. These are the quiet, behind-the-scenes rhythms that uphold everything we do—from kids’ lessons to community gatherings. It’s not always perfect, but it is always rooted in love.

Our Favorite 5 Ways of Practicing Reciprocity with Horses

1. Strength & Fitness
Our horses participate in weekly training sessions designed to build muscle, support joint health, improve flexibility, and cultivate both mental and physical strength. Drawing from years of personal horsewomanship and guidance from experienced trainers, we develop individualized fitness plans for each horse. We do not take their willingness to carry us lightly and are deeply committed to keeping them strong, supple, and pain-free. In addition to training, we collaborate with trusted local veterinarians to provide the best supplements and treatments, including joint injections for arthritis support.

2. Masterson Method Bodywork & Acutonics Energy Work
Sarah has spent the past three years pursuing advanced certifications in the Masterson Method of equine bodywork. Her extensive skillset includes a deep understanding of anatomy, structural imbalances, joint health, and lameness. Each session she offers spans over two hours, addressing both chronic and acute conditions from aging and use.
Alongside Sarah’s work, I bring in Acutonics, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Using tuning forks, meridian theory, and acupuncture points, I support our horses through energetic and sound-based healing. Together, our integrated approach to bodywork is a profound gift to these horses as they move toward their fullest expression of health and vitality.

3. Saddle Fit
Every horse’s body is unique—and so should be their tack. Sarah, experienced in saddle fitting, creates custom molds of each horse’s structure. This helps us ensure that every saddle, girth, and cinch fits properly, preventing pain and pressure points. Proper saddle fit is essential for comfort, performance, and long-term health.

4. Consensual Relating
Every ask we make of our horses is soft and kind—and "no" is always an acceptable answer. Some days, a horse may choose not to participate. She may walk away when approached, seem disengaged, or show signs of discomfort or anxiety. Years of training have helped both Sarah and I read body language and attune to each horse emotionally, energetically, and intuitively. While we are not perfect, we do our best to honor each horse’s needs in the moment—even if that means pausing a session, dismounting mid-lesson, or giving them an unexpected day off.
We take our role as guardians of their well-being as seriously as we take care of our students. It's a privilege to pass on this ethos to the children we work with, helping them learn to trust their instincts and care deeply for others—human and animal alike.

5. Play & Companionship
From liberty work to mountain trail rides to full days off with herd mates, our horses experience joy both with and without humans. Grazing on fresh green pasture, sharing time with their companions, and participating in low-pressure activities are vital to their emotional and social well-being. We strive to honor their herd dynamics and take their needs seriously when introducing new horses or managing the group. A happy horse is a healthy horse.

And just as we care for our horses, we also tend to ourselves. We know that in order to show up as clear, compassionate, and trustworthy partners, we must nurture our own energy, nervous systems, and well-being. Through our own practices—bodywork, movement, rest, and continued learning—we stay in alignment with the values we bring to the barn. And when we care for ourselves, we’re better able to care for our horses, our students, and the land we all call home.

Thank you Aleese Holiday for the beautiful photos.