09/29/2025
Saxon Alexandra & Dash
Saxon Alexandra was born to challenge norms, and their little partner Dash, was too.
Raised in the Montessori school system, Saxon was encouraged to explore and question the world around them from the get-go. As a neurodivergent, gender non-conforming they/them who left the world of horse sport behind, they seem to have been put on the planet to show us what rejecting dominance-based leadership can look like — in favor of methods rooted in mutual benefit.
Their thirst to reconcile what they were learning from world leaders in equine structural integration led them to embrace R+ training methods and experiment with their friend’s miniature horse, Dash.
No longer enamored by the Olympic dream or the world of competitive horsemanship, and disillusioned by the number of horses labeled 'behavioral' while quietly suffering, Saxon sought out other ways of being with horses that aligned with their ethos.
They now provide accessible educational opportunities and sliding-scale services to those truly seeking transformation.
As an equine structural integrationist, Saxon helps horse stewards become more informed about the multitude of environmental, physical, and emotional factors affecting equine health. Their program includes a comprehensive intake (diet, history, behavior, pain, veterinary notes), followed by seven myofascial bodywork sessions designed to create long-term postural balance and soundness.
When Saxon began their experiment with Dash — with the support of his guardian Rebecca — he was a jacked-up little show pony with hallow soles, a hollow high-headed topline, and an inefficient way of moving. After his sessions with Saxon Alexandra, his fascia, nervous system, and musculoskeletal alignment began to harmonize. He began moving through the world with grace, confidence, and ease.
I witnessed Dash choosing to participate with visible joy. He targeted brushes, placed his head into the harness, and lit up on their daily adventures. The only time I saw him say "no" were when we turned for home — he clearly didn’t want the journey to end.
Together, they’ve developed a routine built on consent and positive reinforcement. Dash is rewarded for the behaviors they want to see — and ignored for those they don’t. If he gets a bit cheeky (which he sometimes does!), he’s not corrected harshly. He’s gently redirected.
One of the most powerful things I saw? Saxon rewarding Dash for *doing nothing at all* — just being present, calm, and regulated. It reminded me of the importance of rewarding them when they are on the right track and doing what we want them to do ... instead of just correcting them when we see something we don't want.
If you’re even *wondering* what happens when you give your horse the choice to say “no,” I can tell you: it’s worth it. There are awkward bits. There are bruised egos. But you discover a way to negotiate. And when something truly must be done, Saxon can say: “Dash, this needs to happen. I need your cooperation.” And because so much has been earned — it’s given.
We are in a collective moment of evolution. Many of us — aging riders, lifelong horse lovers, and seekers — are sensing that the old ways aren’t working. Behaviors we once punished are now seen as communication. Information. Feedback.
So the question becomes: What will you do with that information?
If you’re wondering if there’s a better way — with horses, and with humans — there is.
Keep dreaming. And if you need help, check out my offerings and Saxon’s.
🎙️ You can also hear a podcast interview I did with Saxon and their colleague Kayla Anne, who works with the riders Saxon supports.
**Question norms.
Question 'values.'
Then build something beautiful.**
Take a chance,
Paige Lockton
