Clinic Report

by Sharon Carrell Schuh

Colorado

I have been to three of James Shaw's clinics; two as a full riding participant and one as an auditor.  In either case, James gives you full attention, including everyone whether they are on the sidelines or on a horse.  His “inclusiveness” is indicative of his clinics in many ways.  He is very inclusive of the human and the horse, making them one in awareness and movement.

James starts out with “human groundwork” where we become aware of our habitual muscle tension patterns, our breathing patterns, and our unconscious body stances whether standing or sitting.  Then, after becoming more aware of our own bodies, we ride the horses and see how these patterns are affecting them.  James gives very individual attention to each ride, with their specific issues.  However, as you listen and watch each ride, you gain useful information and tools for yourself because as it is said, “What is most personal is also most universal.”  We are at the same time very unique in our bodies, yet very similar in how we compensate.

It is truly an “inside” way to learn about our bodies and horses instead of using control, or force, or technique.  Again, James is inclusive of the small inside movement and the larger outside movement.   Breathing into a very small part of our body can change the large framework of the horse and rider.

James champions the horse and honors the rider.  He gives the rider encouragement and the horse integrity.  And this is done with transparency, honesty and humor on his side.  Every clinic is different because James stays present to each clinic, each participant and each horse.  This is not a “prefab” clinic where once you have seen one, you have seen hem all.  Whether you are there for the first time or the fifth time, you learn valuable information about yourself; therefore valuable information about your horse whether your horse is present at the clinic or not.  His teachings are not the newest fad in horsemanship, they are based on ancient, tried and true, wise teachings of the body and nature.  There are constant opportunities to integrate these teachings into everyday life.