it’s not the saddle…

“Interacting with horses can be immensely therapeutic physically, mentally, and spiritually, helping people reawaken long-forgotten abilities that are capable of healing the imbalances of modern life.”
-Linda Kohanov from The Tao of Equus

Photo is of Alegria - with another ‘new’ saddle. This is an Australian saddle that we had just sitting around. I decided to see how it felt. I had tried this saddle awhile back, before I had my ‘saddle revelation,’ and didn’t particularly take to it. But, since my saddle epiphany back in March, I thought I’d give it another chance.

I love it.

The thing is, back when I was only using my very heavy, stiff, secure vaquera saddle this Australian one felt WAY too loosey goosey. There was nothing to make me feel safe, secure, held in. There was way too much movement - I had been used to my saddle holding me tightly in place.

But, since making the shift from my vaquera saddle a few months ago to my ‘new’ 50+ year old vintage saddle, I have come to realize that what I had sought externally (security and confidence from my saddle) I actually have found internally. I am the one who brings the confidence, security, and balance - regardless of the saddle.

Once again, it’s about horses. But it’s also about so much more.