Mindful Horsemanship and Equine Assisted Learning
For individuals, professionals, and equine organizations seeking an aware and compassionate approach to Engaging with horses
Mindful Horsemanship and Equine Assisted Learning
For individuals, professionals, and equine organizations seeking an aware and compassionate approach to Engaging with horses
"This is more than just a technique for training horses; it is a way of life that involves a desire to understand and c0-create rather than control and dominate."
- Stacey Carter
Mindful Horsemanship Online Training
A self-paced course designed to help you develop the awareness, regulation, and communication skills that form the foundation of a cooperative relationship.
This foundational course will empower you with:
Simple and powerful techniques that can be accessed any time you are with your horse to create a calm and grounded presence.
A clear understanding of how your horse is perceiving your movement, energy, position, and body language.
The ability to precisely and clearly make requests in a way any horse can understand.
Hands-on practices that will enable you to soften and relax your horse through touch.
This course is perfect for:
Horse owners who prioritize the horse's comfort, happiness and partnership and are looking for a clear and concise approach to horsemanship.
Professionals in Equine Assisted Mental Health and Learning seeking an approach to horsemanship that supports and is congruent with therapeutic goals.
Riders who want to better understand how they can help their horses feel relaxed, rhythmic and soft whether on the trail or in the arena.
Anyone who works with horses that have experienced previous trauma and want an approach that is about healing not just training.
Compassionate horse people who want to ride in a way that supports their horse's wellbeing.
Events at LaBelle Equestrian
On-site opportunities to learn with our herd
At LaBelle Equestrian in Mt. Ulla, NC we offer a variety of learning opportunities for all ages and abilities.
Our programs include:
Weekly Mindful Horsemanship classes.
Summer camps for youth.
Special events throughout the year.
Private lessons and retreats by appointment.
We can also create a customized event for your group focused on equine assisted learning, therapeutic horsemanship, teambuilding, or simply having a fun and educational day at the farm.
Group Training
For therapeutic centers, equine assisted services programs, and equine rescue organizations
Empower your team by offering training that provides an understanding of equine behavior and mindfulness practices that develop self-awareness and the ability to work with horses in a way that fosters trust, relaxation, and cooperation. Group training opportunities combine in-person clinics and online support for your teams, ensuring that everyone is working together to support the horses in your program.
Online training can be adapted for groups to support:
Staff and volunteer education.
Safer, more consistent horse-human interactions.
Trauma-informed and regulation-based approaches.
Mindful Horsemanship Clinics
Bring a clinic to your facility
On-site clinics for barns, therapeutic programs, and equine communities interested in a relationship-centered approach.
Clinic topics include:
Mindful movement for riders.
Speaking the language of the horse.
Fostering relaxation and softness through touch.
Groundwork for connection and communication.
Supporting therapeutic horses in their role.
Benefits of hosting a clinic:
Supports both horses and humans.
Builds confidence and clarity.
Creates a shared foundation for your community.
"This is more than just a technique for training horses; it is a way of life that involves a desire to understand and c0-create rather than control and dominate."
- Stacey Carter
Mindful Horsemanship Online Training
A self-paced course designed to help you develop the awareness, regulation, and communication skills that form the foundation of a cooperative relationship.
This foundational course will empower you with:
Simple and powerful techniques that can be accessed any time you are with your horse to create a calm and grounded presence.
A clear understanding of how your horse is perceiving your movement, energy, position, and body language.
The ability to precisely and clearly make requests in a way any horse can understand.
Hands-on practices that will enable you to soften and relax your horse through touch.
This course is perfect for:
Horse owners who prioritize the horse's comfort, happiness and partnership and are looking for a clear and concise approach to horsemanship.
Professionals in Equine Assisted Mental Health and Learning seeking an approach to horsemanship that supports and is congruent with therapeutic goals.
Riders who want to better understand how they can help their horses feel relaxed, rhythmic and soft whether on the trail or in the arena.
Anyone who works with horses that have experienced previous trauma and want an approach that is about healing not just training.
Compassionate horse people who want to ride in a way that supports their horse's wellbeing.
Online Group Training
For therapeutic centers, equine assisted services programs, and rescues
Online training can be adapted for groups to support:
Staff and volunteer education
Safer, more consistent horse-human interactions
Trauma-informed and regulation-based approaches
Focus areas include:
Co-regulation and emotional awareness
Reading horse behavior through a nervous system lens
Creating safe environments for horse and human
Developing connection through intentional touch
Self-awareness and understanding embodied communication
Supporting horses with trauma or sensitivity
Events at LaBelle Equestrian
On-site opportunities to learn with our herd
At LaBelle Equestrian in Mt. Ulla, NC we offer a variety of learning opportunities for all ages and abilities.
Our programs include:
Weekly Mindful Horsemanship classes.
Summer camps for youth.
Special events throughout the year.
Private lessons and retreats by appointment.
We can also create a customized event for your group focused on equine assisted learning, therapeutic horsemanship, teambuilding, or simply having a fun and educational day at the farm.
Mindful Horsemanship Clinics
Bring a clinic to your facility
On-site clinics for barns, therapeutic programs, and equine communities interested in a relationship-centered approach.
Clinic topics include:
Mindful movement for riders.
Fostering relaxation and softness through touch.
Speaking the language of the horse.
Groundwork for connection and communication.
Supporting therapeutic horses in their role.
Benefits of hosting a clinic:
Supports both horses and humans
Builds confidence and clarity
Creates a shared foundation for your community
Clients consistently find that their greatest gain is the profound shift in their relationship with their horses - moving from misunderstanding and frustration to a partnership built on understanding, trust, and empathy.
Empowered Communication
Clients learn to 'speak horse' - not through words, but through a silent language of movement, energy, and mutual responsiveness. Imagine your horse not just following commands, but actively participating in your sessions with enthusiasm and trust.
Confidence and Safety
Gain the skills and confidence necessary to handle any situation calmly and effectively. Clients often express how much more enjoyable their time with their horse becomes once they've mastered these essential safety and handling skills.
Joyful Partnership
Witness the transformation as your horse becomes more engaged and connected during your time together. This change is not just behavioral but emotional, fostering a bond that is deeply satisfying and fulfilling for both.
The Heart Centered Difference
The Heart Centered Difference
You're in search of authentic, effective solutions that resonate with your values of understanding and collaborative growth. If you're feeling let down by traditional horsemanship methods and crave a deeper connection with your horse, it's time for a change. Discover what is possible when we let the horse become the teacher.
Key Benefits of Joining Our Program:
Confidence in Handling and Riding: With simple and straightforward lessons that you can implement in any setting, you will have the skills to handle situations as they arise, keeping you and your horse calm and connected in any environment.
Master skills that will empower you to connect with any horse: Based on centuries-old yoga and mindfulness practices, hands-on softening techniques such as Debono Moves, and communicating through the horse's natural language, this program teaches you far more than how to train a horse to perform to cues. You will learn skills that can enrich your relationship with all horses, regardless of prior experience.
Deep Learning Tailored for Any Age: Adults and children alike can benefit, learning patience, communication, and self-regulation through fun and interactive experiences with horses.
On-Site or Virtual Lessons: Lessons are offered at the beautiful LaBelle Equestrian Center in Mt. Ulla, NC, with your own horse or one of the herd. For those not close enough to attend on-site, distance consultations and online video classes are also available. Learn at your pace, at your level, with personalized support tailored to your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Equine-Assisted Learning?
Equine-assisted learning differs from traditional horsemanship in that the focus is not on training the horse, but rather teaching the person through interactions with the horse. Through engaging with horses, we can develop self-awareness and relationship skills that enhance all areas of our lives. Heart Centered Horsemanship is a form of equine-assisted learning that is also highly-effective at improving behavior and cooperation in horses when their humans embrace the process.
Do I need any special equipment to participate?
No special equipment is required. We work with your existing gear and focus on enhancing communication and connection.
Can beginners join your clinics and retreats?
Absolutely! Our services are tailored to accommodate all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced riders.
What if my horse is difficult or has behavioral issues?
We specialize in working with all types of horses, including those with challenging behaviors, focusing on building trust and understanding how to address and resolve these issues.
Mastering the horse starts with our own nervous system.
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Let The Horse Be Your Teacher
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