Ride from Within: Use Tai Chi Principles to Awaken Your Natural Balance and Rythm [Paperback]

James Shaw (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 1, 2005

An exploration of Tai Chi as it relates to riding and to developing a mind-body connection both on and off the horse.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"With the use of spectacular photography, informative text, and a gift for explaining complex ideas, Shaw has developed a marvelous book."  —American Quarter Horse Journal

From the Publisher

Few forms of exercise are better suited for equestrians than Tai Chi. The ancient Chinese art unifies the body, mind, and spirit in a series of flowing movements that align the posture, breath, and inner- and outermost being. Combining this art with horsemanship offers the rider the opportunity to become "one" with her horse, to better her skills by centering her body, gaining control of her breathing, and calming her mind. From the Yin and Yang perspective and "opening" the Eight Gates, to enhancing movement and power on the ground and refining skills in the saddle, Shaw teaches the techniques necessary to achieve a true connection with the horse. With step-by-step color photos to guide readers through introductory exercises, and with a basic discussion of Eastern philosophy, this book provides a great foundation for a new way of riding.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Trafalgar Square Books (August 1, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1570763186
• ISBN-13: 978-1570763182
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 8.5 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #445,483 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Guaranteed to improve your Riding, March 5, 2008

By 

SJ Renwick "Shirley Renwick" (East London, South Africa) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Ride from Within: Use Tai Chi Principles to Awaken Your Natural Balance and Rythm (Paperback)

I bought this book about two weeks ago. I read through the whole book in two days, and am now working on the exercises. I can already feel a huge improvement in my riding. My awareness of balance and where I am carrying tension is greatly heightened, and with the exercises I am able to correct these problems.

The unmounted exercises are deceptively simple. As my proficiency increases the benefit I get from them increases exponentially.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is serious about riding, or anyone who would just like to increase the pleasure of riding.

Marvellously therapeutic!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ride from Within, July 24, 2008

By 

C. Mcwatt "Titania" (New Zealand) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Ride from Within: Use Tai Chi Principles to Awaken Your Natural Balance and Rythm (Paperback)

My dressage coach is a Tai Chi advocate.This book combines both disciplines and provides an in-depth understanding how the human body works to influence the horses body. When both bodies are at one with each other...that is when the magic happens...
I am diligently doing the ground exercises and and am starting to communicate this to the horse, with the help of my coach...looking forward to the new riding season with a deeper sense of connection with my horse.

5.0 out of 5 stars Ride From Within, July 20, 2011

By 

horsedancer - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Ride from Within: Use Tai Chi Principles to Awaken Your Natural Balance and Rythm (Paperback)

I LOVE this book, especially when coupled with taking clinics with James. That is what makes it all come together. This book and the clinics has changed my riding immensely! Really worth it. And my horses love it too!