
In the January/February issue of Young Rider magazine, journalist Laura Boynton Johnson encourages us to have better harmony with our horses using dressage training.
Dressage history is rooted in ancient times.
Xenophon of Athens, was a Greek Military leader, philosopher and historian, born in 430 B.C. In his novel, On Horsemanship he shares the best qualities to look for in horses and non-abusive methods to train them.
Today’s dressage is an evolution of Xenophon’s philosophies.

Dressage trainer, Betsy Van Dyke describes important basics that she has all beginners practice.
The seat! By far the most important tool in communication… is a seat that follows and does not hinder the horse’s gait.
Elastic elbows.
Effective legs, without clamping or nagging.
Understanding true dressage principles and its history.

Also in this issue…
British born Esme Higgs is an equestrian, content creator, and social media star with over 1.5 million followers.
And although she’s pretty famous, she claims to not be too different from you and me.
Here are six things that make her relatable:
She didn’t grow up in a horsey family.
She’s a big fan of fantasy fiction.
Esme is really, very shy.
Last year she rode to the House of Parliament in London on horseback (in support of a Horse Welfare campaign).
Esme is dyslexic.
You can’t see it in her smile, but she has a fake tooth!
Love this