About - Relationship Based Equitatation

Kerija`s WHY

Hello, I’m Kerija, and I’m dedicated to the art of understanding and connecting with horses.

As a BSc (H) graduate in Equestrian Psychology and Sports Science, I’ve delved deep into the intricate dynamics between horse and human. I’m also the visionary behind Relationship-Based Equitation, a philosophy centered on fostering meaningful bonds with our equine companions.

My path to this point was fueled by a dream – the dream of nurturing my own horse. I longed to cultivate a relationship where mutual trust and joy flourished, where my horse eagerly anticipated our time together, not just for treats, but for genuine connection. I yearned for training sessions filled with enthusiasm and liberty sessions brimming with shared playfulness. Yet, I faced a challenge: I didn’t know how to bridge that gap.

Driven by this aspiration, I embarked on a quest for knowledge and understanding. Through years of study, observation, and hands-on experience, I unearthed insights into the psychology and communication of horses. Today, I’m dedicated to sharing my learnings and empowering others to embark on their own journey of authentic connection with these magnificent creatures. Join me as we embark on a path of discovery, empathy, and partnership with our equine friends.”

Read My Story

How did it all start..?

I grew up in a remote part of Latvia, drawn to farm life, horses, and nature despite my family’s lack of interest in animals. My weekends were spent at nearby horse breeding stables, thanks to my grandmother’s unwavering support. Now, years later, I’m still a horse lover at heart, but with a deeper understanding and skills to fulfill my dreams. My journey led me to work with young horses, initially following conventional methods, but feeling frustrated by a lack of understanding. Witnessing the confusion and unease in horses during training ignited my passion for finding a better way.

Getting my first horse

At 13, I fulfilled a dream by raising my own foal, longing to cultivate a special bond – one where she’d eagerly join me in training sessions and liberty play. Despite my efforts, I struggled to achieve the connection I envisioned. I alsolacked understanding of how to train my horse ethically. Determined to pursue my passion, I opted to study abroad in the United Kingdom, delving into Equestrian Psychology and Sport Sciences. With support from teachers and family, I navigated challeneges – of living and studying abroad. And I embraced the opportunity to explore the evolutionary, physiological, and psychological aspects shaping equine behavior. Theory provided newfound clarity in my journey.

My Biggest Turning Point

My pivotal moment came during my placement year at Haras Naturel du Plessis in France, where I learned under devoted horse trainers Gabi Neuhror and Marie-Claire de Selliers. Their emphasis on Relationship over Horsemanship reshaped my approach. Discipline, efficiency, independence, and a hunger for learning were vital in achieving daily tasks and personal growth. It was intense, but the rewards were immense. Finally bridging theory with real-life practice empowered me.

The pinnacle was experiencing true harmony with my project horse, Blueberry. In just nine months, the transformation from a lazy, pushy horse to one responsive, eager, and light was astounding. Witnessing this profound change firsthand answered my questions and solidified my belief in the power of consistent, long-term work. True connection between human and horse isn’t magic; it’s the result of dedicated effort.

Self Employment

After completing my studies, I returned to Latvia briefly and ventured into self-employment, offering horsemanship lessons and hoof trimming. The joy of sharing my knowledge and helping others solidified my desire to pursue this path professionally. Despite this realization, I was offered an opportunity to return to France, where I spent another enriching year working with project horses and engaging in Equifeel competitions.

However, without mastering French, settling permanently in France wasn’t feasible. Life led me to Austria, specifically Klagenfurt, where my family and partner reside – a place that feels like home. I’ve hesitated to launch myself into the community, due to language barrier, but my heart urges me to take the leap and believe in the journey ahead.

Experiences and Education

2024-

Continuing Education :

I continue educating myself by participating in live seminars, online courses and books. My current interest dives deeper into understanding how to develop horses self carriage, achieve better balance and how to maintaion emotional authenticity. I study Academic Art of Riding through online courses, participated in seminar of Michael Wanzenried.

2023 – now

Stable manager

Daily stable care and customized exercise plans for sport horses, focusing on individual needs such as trailer loading, clipping, fly spray acceptance, and biomechanically healthy movement during lunging, among others (AT).

2022-2023

Haras Naturel du Plessis pt 2

I spend another year at Haras Naturel du Pessis, refining my horsemanship and tending to all horses. I embarked on a fresh journey with two project horses, Abby and Stella.

Alongside mastering hoof trimming, I had the privilege of meeting experienced trainer Jeanne-Marie Dumoulin, who introduced me to Equifeel competitions—a competiotion where the communication between human and horse is put to the test (FR).

2021

Self Employeed in Latvia

As a self-employed professional, I offered horsemanship lessons, horse training and hoof trimming. Additionally, I contributed to the Animal Crew during the filming of the horror movie Raven’s Hollow (LV), bringing my expertise to the set.

2020-2022

Assisting in online course creation

Helping Gabi Neuhror in creaton of her Online training courses and assisted in couching her online Relationship Fast Track Course.

Find out more about Gabi`s courses: https://www.gabineurohr.com/index.php/about/about-me

2017-2021

First Class Honors BSc (Hons) Equestrian Psychology and Sports Sciences

Studying in Nottingham Trent University, UK.
My study subjects were:

Research Skills for Scientists
Equine Health and Husbandry
Equine Anatomy and Physiology
Horse Human Relationship
Introduction to Sport Psychology and Coaching
Therapeutic Use of the Horse
Equine and Human Sport Science
Equine Learning and Cognition
Sports Injury
Research Methods for Behavioural Sciences
Equine Health and Nutrition
Optimising Performance
Rehabilitation Strategies for Horse and Rider

But my favourite subjects were :
Equine Behaviour and Welfare
Horse Human Relationship
Equine Learning and Cognition
Assessment of Equine Behaviour
Emerging Issues, Ethics and Welfare

2019-2020

Haras Naturel du Plessis

During a transformative nine-month internship integral to my studies, I had the privilege of working alongside esteemed professionals: 3 Star Parelli Professional Marie-Claire de Selliers and Horse Development Specialist Gabi Neurohr at Haras Naturel du Plessis in France (FR) (https://www.harasplessis.com/index.php/en/).

I get an opportunity to develop a young horse from scratch- my project pony Blueberry. Not only do I study horsemanship in theory and praxis, but also learn about maintaining horses on a Paddock Paradise System, evaluate feeding rations to fulfill nutritional requirements and execute Fecal Egg count tests to control parasite amouns.

Furthermore, I embarked on a comprehensive study of equine hoof health, guided by resources and DVDs curated by renowned expert Pete Ramey. This journey not only enriched my understanding of hoof assessment but also equipped me with the necessary skills for proficient trimming.

2020

Certification for Parelli levels

Received certification for Parelli Level 2 On-Line and Parelli Level 3 Freestyle together with my project horse Blueberry that I started from scratch with the help of my teachers.

2020

Berni Zambail course

Participated in a week-long course with a 6 Star Parelli Master Instructor Berni Zambail (FR).

2016

Received a certificate for professional development education “Fundamentals of horse husbandry” (Latvian University of Agriculture (LUA) (LV)

2013-2020

Owning and raising two of my own horses (LV).

Hear What Others Say

You Always Make Sure That The Horse Is Interested, Heard And Enjoys The Time Together.

Thank you for always being willing to share your knowledge and trying to explain it in simple language so that the average horse rider can hear.

Marta B.

I love her authentic way and her talent to explain things in a way that you actually understand and that she celebrates my personal successes with me as if they were her own.