If you don’t know what Autonomous Horsemanship is, don’t worry, it’s a term we made up to distinguish a certain way of being with horses.

It might not be the best name but we like how it can look like it belongs right up there on a list of choices with Natural Horsemanship, Down Under Horsemanship, Parelli Horsemanship, and other common brands of horse training. The irony is that there is really no training involved in Autonomous Horsemanship.

Here is how we have defined it:

An autonomous relationship is one where each being has the right to make their own decisions. There must be no fear of pain or punishment for making a decision, otherwise we cannot feel safe in the relationship.

Halters, bridles and ropes work by causing discomfort and pain. They have the effect of redirecting a horse’s movements from what she would freely choose to do. Can we truly know a horse if we don’t allow her free choice?

We recognize that we humans are one nation among many and we respect each nation’s and each individual’s rights to express themselves in peace and freedom according to their nature.

No, you are enough.

No, come as you are!

Stay tuned, we’re working on this answer! In the meantime, check out this video on the subject. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYmfr-K6FzE