Although anyone who regularly practices yoga is likely to see improvement in both their physical and mental health, for equestrians, the practice of yoga holds additional unique benefits. Not only will the physical (pose) practice improve a rider’s suppleness and strength and increase body awareness, symmetry, and control, but the mental practice teaches us how to remain present and centered, thereby improving communication, understanding, and empathy for our equine partner.
In Cold Moon Farm’s signature Equestrian Yoga and Mounted Mindfulness clinics, CMF Principal Horseman and certified yoga instructor Christina Keim blends the centuries-old wisdom of classical yoga philosophy, breathwork, and movement with the tenets of compassionate horsemanship. Clinics include a dharma talk on yoga philosophy, an hour-long asana (physical pose) practice geared toward equestrians, and a semi-private Mounted Mindfulness session, where we apply yogic concepts to our work in the saddle. Participants may choose to complete only the unmounted portion, or stay for the entire day.
We also offer an asana-only option–bringing an equestrian-oriented physical yoga practice to your barn, organization, club, equestrian team, or staff training. Classes are offered as both a one-time experience or on a recurring basis, and are a perfect complement to mounted programs.
No previous experience with yoga? Not a problem! Our Equestrian Yoga and Mounted Mindfulness clinics are designed to meet you where you are at–whether trying yoga is a brand new opportunity, or you have been practicing for years. We offer an Every Body, Every Level practice, with a particular focus on drawing awareness to aspects of the body, breath, and mind critical for success as an equestrian.
What our clinic is not: “yoga poses on horseback.” We do not believe that this practice is in alignment with the purpose of yoga, nor are many horses suitable or safe for such activities. In our Mounted Mindfulness sessions, equestrians are mentored through body, breath, and mindfulness exercises, while riding in their usual tack. All Mounted Mindfulness participants must attend a dharma talk and complete an asana practice prior to their mounted session.
Interested in learning more? Contact Christina at 603-617-9488 or christinakeimequestrian@gmail.com today!
Christina teaches regularly at Nourish bodymindsoul in Barrington, NH–all classes are available via Zoom, AND your first class is free!
Sign up for a class today: https://nourish.works/
Cold Moon Farm, LLC 