I believe passionately in putting the wellbeing of the horse before my own desires.
It has been a dream of mine for a long time to live in a foreign country, learn the language of that country and immerse myself in the culture of that country. With 14 years now in Mallorca, I feel confident that my dream has come true - although the challenge of the language continues! It has also been a dream of mine to work with horses and this is the journey I now find myself on and the journey I am passionate about sharing with other horse lovers.
I have attended many ‘natural horsemanship’ courses and clinics and always come away with the feeling that this knowledge is critical for young children (or adults) about to delve into the world of horses. For a child to learn that the horse is a sensitive and intelligent being who should be treated with empathy, understanding, kindness and softness, way before taking riding lessons, seems to me like the most appropriate and crucial first step in a future with horses. This missing step in our horse education is what prompted me to begin Lisa’s Horse Island.
I believe passionately in putting the wellbeing of the horse before my own desires and have come to discover that a true horse-human connection is possible. I remember attending a clinic with the infamous Lucy Rees when she asked why we were there; what did we want to get out of the time with her? My reply (which seemed to amuse the others) was that I wanted a similar relationship with my horse as I do with my dog. I felt a little silly at the time, but truly, it’s what I hoped to understand - was it possible?
With Lucy’s teachings as well as those of such trainers as Monty Roberts, Mark Rashid, Buck Brannerman, Kelly Marks and Warwick Schiller and much time spent just being with my horses, I came to the conclusion that yes, it is possible. Different, but possible. And the crucial ingredients, which many well respected trainers will agree with are; trust, empathy, gentleness, patience, congruence and consistency.
The world of horses has changed and is continuing to change for the better. Science is now proving many long-held beliefs and through the passing on of this knowledge, our horses are living better lives. Continuing to learn and share information with the many talented and knowledgeable equine therapists and providers of all nationalities here in Mallorca, I see a better future ahead; not only for the horses but also for their owners, riders and handlers. To become a better horseman, we have to become better people. It’s a ripple effect that infiltrates all areas of life and most certainly enriches all relationships.
It’s this knowledge, a large portion of intuition and the learning journey that I wish to share and explore, as well as the passion for the horse. Not the horse for the sport, but simply for the horse being a horse. What a privilege it is to have a half tonne beast built with power, muscle, grace, beauty and incredible sensitivity to choose to be by your side. For me this is enough. I love to ride, but more than that, I love the challenge of developing trust, a bond, and a level of sensitivity that allows this majestic animal to want to be with me. What I hadn’t bargained for, was how much this would change me - on many levels and for the better.
If you own horses, I’d love to hear your story; if you work with horses and wish to see improvements to their welfare, I’d like to know you; if you love horses but don’t have access or time, come and join me for a day; if you have a horse-mad son or daughter, treat them to my family day and if you would like to organise an educational clinic, I would be happy to both advertise and assist.
This page is for all those who adore horses and whose philosophy puts the welfare of the horse first.
Lisa Stodart, Septiembre 2021
Lisa's Horse Island
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