Twisted

Looking at the photos Monica took of me from behind on the trail (they're on the Horsebytes Facebook page if you're interested), I can really see how bad the curl is. I notice it in my office chair at work, but I honestly thought I was policing myself on Saturday. Not so. Here is what I'm up against:

• Left shoulder higher and farther back than right shoulder.
• Right hip higher than left hip.
• Left leg farther back than right leg.
• More weight on left buttock.
• Torso twisted left.

I can feel all of those things just sitting here right now, but it also feels like the most comfortable way to sit. But I correct myself often in my sitting posture because I am aware there's a problem. I just slowly slide back into it.

But these photos make me think I need to do a lot more work.

First and foremost, along with our canter work, I really need to start reining with my other hand... at least until I start to even out my shoulders. I also need to switch diagonals more. But what else should I be doing? These are deeply ingrained patterns of movement in every aspect of my life.

I should probably get a lefthanded mouse to change the muscle development.

At the hospital where I work, they have a whole team of people who do vestibular and balance therapy. That seems like an extreme reaction, but I wonder if I can steal some of their exercises.

It is likely that what I really need are lessons and a mirror in the arena.

My inner ears are lying to me about which way is up. How do I win that argument?!