49. Creating Thinking Horses and Riders with Teresa Pilegaard

In this episode, Anna sits down with biomechanics and adaptive riding instructor Teresa Pilegaard to explore how riders can move beyond the old obedience-based training model and build true partnership with their horses. Teresa shares insights on rider biomechanics, nervous system regulation, groundwork, and why so many riders get pushed past their experience level.Together, they break down how to create safer, more confident, and more connected rides by focusing on awareness, observation, and communication — not force. If you’ve ever struggled with fear, tension, or feeling “stuck” in your riding, this conversation will help you rethink your approach and reconnect with your horse on a deeper level.Take the Are You a Perfectionist Quiz? at www.equusenlightened.comFind me on social media as @equusenlightened.  Join our Facebook group titled Horse-First Dressage: Compassionate Training and Connection or join the community and the Dressage Naturally Video Classroom at www.patreon.com/equusenlightened.You can also view videos of the riding episodes or listen to all of them on YouTube. My channel is https://www.youtube.com/@equusenlightenedRead blogs or find more links @ https://linktr.ee/equusenlightenedFind out more about Reconnect, Rebuild, and Ride with Heart https://equusenlightened.com/reconnect-rebuildFind Teresa Pilegaard, Dorato Performance Horse, and North Star Stables NOVAhttps://doratoperformancehorses.com/Join the Everyday Equestrian https://doratoperformancehorses.com/everyday-equestrianEmail me at [email protected] Riding!