Heather Johnson Dressage

04/15/2025

Everything else is the 🍒 on top. 💙

04/14/2025

Well said, Beth Baumert ✨

🐴Beth Baumert on the beauty and importance of symmetry in the dressage horse ... 🐴

04/10/2025

✨✨✨

Feel isn’t magic—it’s a skill that forever evolves.
It’s not just what you do. It’s what you notice too.

That slight shift in your horse’s back? That moment of softness in the rein? That’s feel.
It’s timing. It’s instinct. It’s the split-second where everything clicks.

Want to build it?
- Ride with awareness.
- Breathe with your horse.
- Get quiet—then listen.
- Reflect after every ride.
- Ride different horses if possible.
- Trust yourself.

Feel is what separates good from evolving riders.
It's not loud. It's not flashy.
It’s subtle. It’s powerful.
It’s earned.

You don’t need to chase feel.
Just ride for it—every single day.
Its a light bulb moment for you and your horse

04/05/2025

😉

04/03/2025

Turbo horse!!! Does your horse get hotter through your ride no matter what you do? 😱🫣😆

Three small tips…

1. Frequent walk breaks: This could be long and low OR working walk breaks with lateral work or bending lines to add suppleness/balance.
2. Stand…yup, you heard that right. Some horses need practice standing still. Add a scratch or a “good boy”. It helps let them know that they’re alright and that sometimes doing nothing is the right thing. Stand there and have a conversation with a fellow boarder. Chatting can help you breath and can facilitate their breathing. Just disrupting fast/tense behaviors with slow/calm time can really shift the energy of your ride.
3. If you can keep good balance doing it add in reps of stretching for relaxation. If your horse can’t keep their balance stretching be thoughtful about when you ask them to work on it (beginning, middle, or end of your ride) and pick away at making it better. They need to be able to lengthen their frame in order to help their muscles develop properly. It is also a wonderful reward for more collected work. Use lines and exercises that will help slow the tempo if they want to be quick. If you need tips I can help. ☺️

04/03/2025

His brand and mine. Love you, #65. 💘

04/01/2025

🍀👏🤠

**Breaking News: Zebras Now Eligible to Compete in All FEI Disciplines!**

In a groundbreaking move towards inclusivity, the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) has announced a major rule change that will allow zebras to compete alongside horses in all FEI disciplines.

A spokeswoman for the FEI, Avril Mirth, stated, "In today’s inclusive society, it is vital that no animal capable of being ridden should feel excluded. Zebras have long been overlooked in equestrian sport, and we are excited to welcome them into the competitive arena."

However, the FEI acknowledges that there are anatomical differences between zebras and traditional sport horses. Special considerations will be made, particularly regarding tack and judging criteria.

**New Bridles and Bits for Zebras**

Due to the unique conformation of the zebra’s head, neck, and mouth, new rules will be implemented to accommodate their distinct physiology. Although zebras will compete in the same classes as horses, judges will be trained to accept a slightly shorter, higher, and less round frame. The standard dressage outline, for example, may look different on a zebra, but that will not be penalised under the new regulations.

One of the most significant adaptations will be in the design of bridles and bits. Renowned bit and bridle expert, Charlotte Warman has taken on the challenge of developing specialised tack to ensure the comfort and welfare of zebras in competition.

**A More Sensitive Mouth**

"The mouth of a zebra is incredibly sensitive due to... well, let’s just say centuries of not being selectively bred for riding!" Warman explained. "This means they require a much lighter contact than horses. Riders will need to develop a softer feel and refine their aids to accommodate the zebra’s unique needs."

Warman is currently testing prototype bridles that feature extra-padded nosebands and ergonomic bit designs tailored to the zebra’s delicate oral structures. "We’re also looking into bitless options," she added, "as many zebras seem to prefer a more natural approach."

**Challenges and Opportunities**

While this historic rule change has been met with enthusiasm, there are logistical challenges. Unlike horses, zebras have a reputation for being independent thinkers with a penchant for unpredictability. However, supporters argue that with the right training and handling, zebras could become serious contenders in international competition.

"Imagine watching a beautifully striped dressage test or a zebra clearing a showjumping course with ease!" Mirth exclaimed. "The possibilities are endless."

As of April 2025, riders interested in competing with zebras can begin the registration process. Stay tuned for further updates as this exciting new chapter in equestrian sport unfolds!

03/28/2025

♥️

Great News! An anonymous donor has generously provided a $200,000.00 Matching Grant for the GMHA Land Acquisition! We are so thankful! All donations directed to the land acquisition will be matched, up to $200,000.00. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation and help us continue the magic of GMHA for the next generation.

We've raised over half of the $2.1 million purchase price, with the balance due in October. Please give today and help ensure the future of GMHA for the next generation. Your contribution will be matched up to $200,000.00 and every donation helps. Click here to give: https://gmhainc.org/centennial-bridge-to-the-future-campaign/

There are many ways to give. And every gift is appreciated. For more information, please contact Bruce Perry at 802.457.1509.

Read all about it here: https://conta.cc/4iIbHYu

03/26/2025

🤩💪

👊🏼

03/26/2025

In the Gray area Thursday afternoon and can fit in a travel lesson! PM if interested.

03/26/2025

👇👇👇

Yep.

03/23/2025

Goes for horses too 😉