Our Horses, Ourselves

For years horse trainers and equine experts have sought new ways to tap into that which for many remains elusive: the ability to use the human body, and our often neglected power of intent, to explain to the horse what we want, as well as receive in and understand his answer. From the Feldenkrais Method®, Alexander Technique, and yoga, to Tai Chi, Aikido, and other martial arts, we have used various areas of study seemingly unrelated to horses and riding to gain new insight as to how to achieve a soft, fluid connection with our equine partners.

Now in this fascinating book, dancer and choreographer Paula Josa-Jones examines this age-old conundrum from a whole new angle, combining her two greatest passions: movement and horses. Through stories, strategies, and over 65 meditations and gentle exercises, Josa-Jones shows us how we can develop greater somatic awareness away from the horse, as well as how being with the horse can help this consciousness continue to evolve. The result is we not only have a closer, more intuitive connection with our horses, we are more trustworthy, more comfortable in our own skin, and better prepared to act with balance, sensitivity, and kindness in all our relationships.

“What Paula Josa–Jones has done…is to bring each aspect of the combined arts of equitation and dance into new and sublime focus.” —Carly Simon, Singer/Songwriter

“A breath of fresh air…where any one of us with a true desire to really be with horses, to partner with them in work, pleasure, or competition, should begin.” —Linda Tellington-Jones, Bestselling Author, Founder of the Tellington Method®

“What an engaging, poetic, and insightful book! Our Horses, Ourselves is a deeply moving journey into the landscape of our authentic self, reflected through the great love, respect, and understanding Josa-Jones has for horses as companions and creators of harmony though movement.” —Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen, Bestselling Author and Founder of Body-Mind Centering®

“Paula Josa-Jones shares a unique perspective on how we can create a more intimate relationship with our horses and ourselves, and it is a joy to see how awareness of the deeper connections between horses and humans can blossom. Her approach is truly that of a Compassionate Equestrian.” —Allen M. Schoen, DVM, MS, PhD (hon.), Author of The Compassionate Equestrian; Kindred Spirits; and Love, Miracles, and Animal Healing

“Done well, the connection between horse and rider evolves into a dance between two equal partners. Force is never part of this. Paula Josa-Jones reminds us of this in her beautiful book. She offers a dancer's perspective on the process that transforms training into art.” —Alexandra Kurland, Author of Clicker Training for Your Horse