Lena: Polanski Riding

| Challenge | Lena’s Approach | Practical Takeaway | |-----------|----------------|--------------------| | | Uses “breathing‑with‑the‑horse” technique – inhale on the down‑stroke, exhale on the up‑stroke. | Practice deep diaphragmatic breathing while trotting; it relaxes the upper body. | | Inconsistent rein contact | Works with a “rein‑feedback” mirror that shows how much rope is taken in each stride. | Use a small mirror or a transparent plastic sheet attached to the reins to visualise slack vs. tension. | | Loss of impulsion during collection | Adds “under‑leg” pressure (inner thigh) while keeping the hand soft. | Focus on feeling the horse’s hindquarters engage; imagine “pushing” with your inner thigh. | | Difficulty with transitions | Breaks transitions into “micro‑cues” – a brief lift of the leg, a soft pull, a subtle shift of weight. | Practice each micro‑cue separately on the lunge before combining them in the saddle. |

Happy riding, and may your partnership with your horse be as fluid and expressive as Lena’s! lena polanski riding

She is also frequently seen "riding" the slopes, having documented successful ski trips in the Dolomites and other mountainous regions. Lifestyle and Influencer Impact | Challenge | Lena’s Approach | Practical Takeaway