Transform your horsemanship:

connection, communication, Joy

"This is more than just a technique for training horses; it is a way of life that involves a deep understanding and respect for these magnificent animals. "

— Stacey Carter

What We Offer

Distance and On-Site Learning

Attend a class, take an online course, join the membership group, or schedule a private lesson or retreat

Online Classes and Individual Support are 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.

Individual Coaching Can Help You

  • Learn how to set clear boundaries so your horse softens around you in a way that does not require added pressure.

  • Understand the importance of self-awareness, timing, and being responsive to the horse in each moment.

  • Create equine assisted learning programs and retreats.

  • Work through behavioral challenges with your horse to create a harmonious and happy partnership.

  • Become familiar with Debono Moves, a modality developed by Mary Debono based on the Feldenkrais Method, to release tension, facilitate relaxation, improve fluidity and ease of movement, and strengthen connection with your horse.

  • Ride in a way that feels like the horse is an extension of your own body while supporting their well-being through healthy movement.

Mindful Horsemanship Clinics

Host a Clinic at Your Facility

  • Mindful Horsemanship Clinics invite participants to engage with horses in a meaningful, authentic way. These clinics aren't about training horses — they’re about guiding people to meet the needs of the horse in ways that naturally lead to the outcomes they desire.

  • We typically begin on the mat, exploring nervous system regulation, how to hold safe space, and how to use the body with mindful intention to clearly communicate with horses.

  • Participants are introduced to deeply connective practices, including Debono Moves — a modality based on the Feldenkrais Method and developed by Mary Debono — that helps improve body awareness, softness, and ease of movement while strengthening the bond between horse and human.

  • Both on the ground or in the saddle, we focus on how to communicate clearly and congruently in the horse’s language — through movement, energy, position, and body language. When we make embodied requests, horses can understand and respond without conditioned response training. Instead, we can converse with our horses as equal partners.

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  • Each clinic includes a group lunch and discussion, offering space for reflection, questions, and support for individual challenges or goals.

  • Participants also receive a semi-private, one-hour session. These sessions usually focus on riding with mindful movement to encourage softness, straightness, rhythm, and healthy movement in the horse. For those who prefer not to ride, we’ll dive deeper into ways we can engage with the horse from the ground.

If you are interested in hosting a clinic at your farm, reach out to learn more!

Events at LaBelle Equestrian

Attend a Scheduled Event or Contact Us About Creating A Custom Retreat for Your Group

  • At LaBelle Equestrian in Mt. Ulla, NC we offer a wide variety of programs for all ages and experience levels.

  • Summer Camps and Day Camps are designed to teach horsemanship and riding to children ages 6-14. Even young children can learn the power of mindfulness, connection, and clear communication to create partnerships that are fun for both horse and human. Kids also love spending time with the goats, chickens, dogs, mini horses, llama and mini cow!

  • Mindful Horsemanship classes are designed for teens and adults as an introduction to the Heart Centered Horsemanship approach. These classes are ideal for those seeking to deepen their relationship with horses on the ground and as a precursor to riding lessons. Participants may bring their own horse or engage with members of our herd.

  • Full Day Retreats offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in learning in a supportive, fun and encouraging environment. Retreats combine mindfulness, movement, connecting with horses, speaking the horse's language on the ground, and riding with mindful movement, in an holistic approach based on authentic connection and partnership.

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 shared language of cues and responses that make every interaction smoother and more rewarding. 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

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. Learn what it truly means to co-create a relationship with your horse.

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 from our 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.

Let The Horse Be Your Teacher

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