Yoga trains the brain and heals the body and soul. When you combine it with the therapeutic powers of horses, Equi-yoga allows the rider to let go of old beliefs and postures to obtain the freedom within to move with the horse.
Equi-Yoga(TM)
Equi-yoga is a technique developed by Marty Whittle combining the benefits of yoga, breath and movement. We have found that horses mirror our breath and body language. These unique yoga based exercises are designed to help stretch, strengthen and create awareness of the rider's body. Using these exercises in unison with your breath and your horse's movements, you can stretch and release tension from deep within and thereby achieve a better awareness of all 
individual body parts and their unity.
By learning to breathe correctly, engaging the diaphram and becoming aware of specific muscle groups, you can then unite with your horse's energy. Parts of the body which might be locked can be addressed and opened. The horse's response to your awareness of all individual body parts and their connection to him is the reward.
Specific exercises can target and unlock trouble areas such as the neck, shoulders, arms, back, seat and legs. By unlocking these areas you allow your horse to flow through you.
For more information about Equi-Yoga please contact Contact Marty Whittle at marty@topcatfarms or call 860-663-2810 for more information, or you can download our Brochure. Marty is available for Equi-Yoga (TM) clinics held here at Top Cat Farm and at your school, farm or training facility.
Marty Whittle has taught riding for more than 35 years. She is a level III Hunt Seat and a level II dressage ARIA instructor. Marty owns and operates Top Cat Farm, A training and boarding facility in Killingworth, CT. Marty and her students show hunters, jumpers and dressage. Marty has been studying and practicing yoga for 14 years, and is a certified Yoga Alliance RYT instructor and holds yoga classes at the farm. In 2007, Marty was awarded the ARIA Circle of Honor Instructor of the Year award for developing the Equi-Yoga™ program.
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Equi-Yoga Samples
HOUSE FAVORITE
House Favorite - This position is used to open the hips while stretching the lower back, shoulders and spine
PIGEON
Pigeon opens the chest, straightens the spine, lifts the head, and secures the lower leg.
PERIWINKLE
Periwinkle reinforces the core while releasing lower back and shoulder tension
WARRIOR 2 (without stirrups)
WARRIOR 2 (with stirrups)
TWIST
This Twist is shown at a posting trot without stirrups.
Here the rider turns her torso while keeping centered in the saddle. This strengthens the lower leg and seat while encouraging vertical posture.
HOME STRETCH
Home Stretch creates a delicious, full-bodied stretch.
YOGA MUDRA
