1-26-11: Stopping on a release through a more connected rein

I played with stopping Maia on a release today, like we talked about on the phone (which was very helpful, thank you so much). Before, when I'd tried this, I tried to release from "nothingness" and because our connection wasn't strong enough, it actually would turn more into pressure and surprise.

So today, I connected with the rein more. As she walked around/by me on the halter and line, I would pick up on the line until I felt we were mentally connected and she was ready to respond, and then I would release the line with strong intent. She stopped nearly every time! It was fantastic.

I started playing with releasing her into roundness as well, experimenting with what feel told her "stop" and what feel told her "self carriage." It was a great time.