The Natural Connection

Thursday, January 15, 2009

The Natural Connection

Located in Aldie, VA, The Natural Connection is a small horseback riding lesson program available to a specific "breed" of person.

This program was created for people interested in the Natural Horse and our amazing connection to these beautiful creatures. The primary focus is on natural care, horses living outdoors 24/7 in a herd environment, natural trimming, riding with some bitless bridles, halters and hackamores, finding horses through adoption for lease or ownership, and the basics of natural horsemanship training and riding. English and western riding lessons available for ages 8 and up. Beginners are required to stay in private lessons until they can demonstrate a specific skill set under-saddle, showing his or her ability to ride in semi-privates safely. The large majority of students in the Natural Connection own their own horses and take lessons on a weekly basis, in either private or semi-private lessons.

We welcome individuals who are looking for board as well as a lesson program to fit many of their equine needs!

Instructor, Jean French, has over 15 years of experience in training, coaching, riding and instruction together. With a Masters in Education and attaining a trainer certification in the next few years, Jean brings her teaching experiences of all ages together to offer a rare and valuable program to the Northern Virginia area.

What makes this program unique?

Students have the option to learn different disciplines!

HUNT SEAT EQUITATION ON THE FLAT
HUNT SEAT EQUITATION OVER FENCES UP TO 2 FEET
RECREATIONAL WESTERN RIDING
RECREATIONAL TRAIL RIDING
GREEN HORSE TRAINING

Instructor knowledge, education & experience combined with the desire for continued education in horsemanship.
Horses are often carefully selected from adoption and rehab situations, giving each horse the potential to be in the program and get a second chance at life. Occasionally, these horses are purchased by students of the Natural Connection program.
Body language and communication are an integral part of the horse and rider partnership.
Horses are allowed to be horses, with 24/7 turn-out, access to water and forage 24/7, non-severe bits used in shows and trail riding, no bits used during beginner lessons, and trimmed hooves.

Horse Liability Insurance coverage. Lessons and half-leases available. Potential to attend and compete in local shows occasionally.

Small group of riders accepted into the program. Must be willing to think and learn "non-conventionally" in comparison to what many equestrians are doing in the traditional horse world today. Beginners ride in private lessons. Beginner II, Beginner III and Novice riders will have the options of riding in semi-private lessons for show preparation and learning arena etiquette.

Group and family activities available to Natural Connection riders such as:

-Trail rides on and off premises
-Clinics at Miran with professional horsemen and women from varying disciplines
-Showing on and off premises
-Field trips to specific locations for on-site learning
-Attend horsemanship clinics
-Advanced Beginners and above of all ages can participate in summer camp

Email for private or semi-private lesson prices. Barn located 15 minutes from Chantilly, VA.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Please go to naturalconnectionprogram@gmail.com to request more information. Serious inquiries only.

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