In this deeply personal episode of Science for Soundness®, I open up about one of the most vulnerable experiences of my life. When my dog Skye fell suddenly and severely ill, I found myself navigating uncertainty, fear, and long nights at the vet clinic — all while recovering from my own back injury and trying to keep the yard and business running.
For someone who has always relied on self-sufficiency, asking for help was terrifying. But what happened next changed everything I thought I knew about community, belonging, and letting myself be held.
In this episode, I share:
– What happened when Skye collapsed and the emotional rollercoaster that followed
Whether you’re navigating challenges with your horses, your life, or your own sense of worthiness, I hope this story reminds you that you don’t have to walk alone. There are people who care — deeply. And sometimes the greatest act of strength is letting them in.
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Keywords (SEO):
community and horses, horse human connection, vulnerability with horses, letting yourself be supported, holistic horsemanship, Skye illness story, equine community, emotional connection with horses, herd behaviour and humans, Science for Soundness podcast, Steffi equine scientist
How do you safely introduce a new horse into an existing herd — and create a space where every horse feels secure, connected, and at peace?
In this episode of Science for Soundness®, equine scientist and therapist Steffi shares a grounded approach to herd integration, combining behavioural science, emotional awareness, and real-life experience from her own herd.
🎧 You’ll learn:
Why understanding herd dynamics matters before introducing a new horse
Signs your herd is (or isn’t) emotionally ready for change
What relaxed, harmonious herd behaviour actually looks like
How to reduce stress through timing, environment, and clear routines
What horses can teach us about patience, presence, and connection
If you’re passionate about equine wellbeing, natural herd dynamics, and connection-based horsemanship, this episode will give you both insight and calm confidence.
💫 Continue Your Journey
Take what you’ve learned even deeper inside my online programme From Paddock to Paradise, where you’ll discover how to design and manage a truly sound, peaceful and thriving herd environment.
👉 Explore From Paddock to Paradise: https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/courses/paddockparadise
🎁 Use code WELCOME20 for 20% off your first 1:1 session/lesson, or any other programme (except The Holistic Horsemanship Academy).
👉 Book your session: https://calendly.com/scienceforsoundness/11session
🌿 Stay Connected
Website → www.scienceforsoundness.com
Instagram → @scienceforsoundness
Podcast → Science for Soundness® on all platforms
🔍 Keywords
herd integration, horse herd dynamics, equine connection, paddock paradise, equine science, horse body language, natural horsemanship, equine behaviour, herd management, equine wellbeing
In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Steffi welcomes Amber Lydic — a seasoned horse trainer turned somatic facilitator — to explore what happens after horsemanship. Together, they discuss the unseen patterns we carry into the barn, how horses reflect our nervous system state, and what it truly takes to move from control to connection.
Amber shares her transformational journey from traditional training methods to trauma-informed, nervous-system-based horsemanship. You'll hear about the moment everything shifted, how her horses began saying “no,” and why nervous system regulation is the missing link in so much of our horse work.
Whether you're a rider, trainer, or simply seeking a more connected life with horses, this episode invites you into a deeper conversation — one where both human and horse are seen, heard, and honoured.
What We Cover:
Why traditional horsemanship wasn’t enough
How trauma, identity, and performance intertwine
The horse’s nervous system and what it’s really telling us
From band-aids to breakthroughs: healing the root, not the symptom
How Amber’s Obstacle Illusion clinic changes the game
What co-regulation really means — and why it starts with us
The fine line between safety, boundary, and control
Mentioned in the Episode:
Tony Robbins Firewalk
Peter Levine’s somatic work
Joe Dispenza and the science of the nervous system
Obstacle Illusion Clinics
🎧 Tune in now — and experience the shift.
Find Amber's work here:
Are you longing for a deeper, more intuitive connection with your horse — without relying on rigid training methods or performance pressure?
In this episode of the Science for Soundness Podcast, we explore a relationship-based approach to horsemanship that prioritises curiosity, co-regulation, and playful connection over instruction and control. You’ll discover why play is essential for a healthy horse-human relationship, how it supports nervous system regulation, and what happens when we stop trying to “get it right” — and start simply being with our horses.
Whether you practise holistic horsemanship, are new to nervous system-informed horse training, or want to understand your horse on a deeper emotional and biological level, this episode offers insight and permission to soften into a new way of relating.
If you’ve ever felt like horsemanship got too serious… this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why play is a relational tool, not a trick or performance cue
The connection between co-regulation and curiosity
How to create a safe space for your horse to explore and connect
Why horses are individuals, not protocols to follow
What it really means to be present — without expectation
Free Resources & Next Steps:
Download your free Check Your Horse-Human Connection guide:
https://scienceforsoundness.myflodesk.com/workbook
Explore The Holistic Horsemanship Academy: https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/hha
✨ Use code PODCAST to save €10 at checkout
This is the episode for you if you’re curious about:
How to connect with your horse without training them
Why performance pressure blocks emotional connection
What a regulated nervous system looks like in horses and humans
The power of play in building trust with horses
In this episode of the Science for Soundness — The Podcast, we explore what boundaries truly mean in the horse-human relationship — and why they’re essential for nervous system safety and sustainable connection.
So many equestrians are swinging from dominance-based methods to totally force-free approaches — and finding themselves lost when it comes to offering structure without control.
Here’s the truth: Boundaries are not domination. They are clarity.
When you understand the nervous system, you see that boundaries aren't just helpful — they're vital.
We’ll cover:
This isn’t about force.
It’s about felt safety, relational leadership, and honouring your horse’s need for structure and trust.
🎧 Use code PODCAST at checkout to save €10 when you join The Holistic Horsemanship Academy — where we dive deeper into this work every day.
Episode Summary:
Why is it that connection can feel so easy when we’re alone with our horses… and so difficult when other people are watching? In this episode, we explore how the nervous system responds to social pressure, why your reaction is entirely normal, and what you can do to gently stay grounded, connected, and true to yourself — even in the presence of others.
You’ll learn:
Why being seen can trigger survival states like fawn, freeze, or shutdown
How to recognise the disconnection loop (and step out of it)
Tangible tools to regulate yourself in real time — even during a lesson, clinic, or at the yard
How to create a felt sense of safety, no matter who’s around
Why your process matters — and how showing up authentically can create ripple effects for others
If you’re ready to deepen your horse-human relationship in a way that honours both you and your horse, join us inside The Holistic Horsemanship Academy — a space for grounded, science-based, soul-honouring learning:
👉 scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/HHA
If you've ever felt your gut twist during a training session...
If you've ever stayed quiet while your horse was pushed too far…
If you've ever walked away wondering, “Was that really okay?” — this episode is for you.
In this deeply honest conversation, Steffi shares the nervous system impact of witnessing harsh training methods, why so many horse owners go into shutdown when their instincts are ignored, and how to reclaim your voice as an advocate — even in the face of so-called “professionals.”
Whether you're a horse owner, equine professional, or simply someone committed to ethical horsemanship, this episode is a reminder that:
👉 Trainers should make both you and your horse feel safe, seen, and heard.
👉 You are allowed to say no.
👉 You are your horse’s voice — not just their handler.
I also give you some green flags to look out for in your trainer!
Ready to go deeper?
Explore our work inside the Holistic Horsemanship Academy — where your nervous system and your horse’s are both honoured.
Learn more: https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/HHA
Or join us for a beautiful experience through the horse-human bond with A Journey to Self:
https://scienceforsoundness.com/a-journey-to-self
Follow & Connect:
Instagram: @scienceforsoundness
Website: https://scienceforsoundness.com
Podcast: Science for Soundness – available on all major platforms
Relevant Keywords for SEO:
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nervous system response to horse behaviour
Most horses are handled for just one or two hours a day — and yet, the other 22-23 hours are where their nervous system, stress levels, and overall soundness are truly shaped.
In this episode, we explore why the environments our horses live in matter far more than most people realise — and how decisions around stabling and turnout often prioritise human convenience over equine wellbeing. Through a nervous system informed lens, we ask: what if the real issue isn’t your training… but the stable?
This is a grounded, reflective conversation about how to see the yard through your horse’s eyes — and how to make decisions that support regulation, social needs, and long-term soundness.
What We Cover:
– The truth behind the 23:1 ratio: how horses live when we’re not there
– Why many training issues are actually environmental issues
– What to look for in a sound, horse-centred stable
– The nervous system cost of limited movement, isolation, or lack of forage
– What to do when the “ideal” yard isn’t an option
– How to find compassionate compromises without ignoring the horse’s core needs
Take This With You:
You can’t out-train a dysregulated lifestyle.
If we want true connection and soundness, we need to start where the horse lives.
Links that I mentioned:
https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/courses/findingconnection
Want to go deeper? Join the Membership for ongoing guidance and don't forget your code:
https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/innercircle
What if you didn’t have to be more healed, more regulated, or more ready to begin?
What if the journey is the healing?
In this episode of Science for Soundness, I speak to the quiet belief so many of us hold — that we have to fix ourselves before we’re worthy of taking the next step. I share why that’s not true, how school systems and social norms train us out of individuality, and how we can start anyway… even if we’re still scared, uncertain, or messy.
This isn’t a linear how-to.
It’s a soft space to land — with nervous system science, personal reflection, and the horses as mirrors.
If you’re standing at the edge of something new, unsure if you’re “ready” — this episode is for you.
In this episode:
Why your nervous system craves control and certainty
The myth of being “ready enough”
What it actually feels like to begin the journey from a messy place
Why safety is the foundation for curiosity, play, and growth
How this is unfolding in real time through A Journey to Self
Mentioned in this episode:
🌀 A Journey to Self — a three-week, behind-the-scenes experience recorded during my road trip with the dogs, the horses, and the quiet in between.
This is where I share what I don’t post elsewhere — voice notes, reflections, moments of regulation and realness.
→ Join here: https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/courses/journey
—
🧠 Keywords for SEO:
nervous system healing, polyvagal theory, survival mode, connection-based horsemanship, nervous system regulation, journey to self, trauma-informed horsemanship, horse human connection, equine science, nervous system awareness, self-growth
—
Subscribe & Listen:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | scienceforsoundness.com/podcast
If this resonated with you, share it with a friend — or come walk with us inside A Journey to Self.
In this episode of Science for Soundness, we explore the newest addition to the 5 Pillars of Soundness: Social Soundness.
Social needs in horses are often overlooked or folded into emotional or mental wellbeing — but through real-life herd dynamics and the story of Po, we reveal why social safety and herd connection must stand as their own pillar.
If you're interested in polyvagal-informed horsemanship, the nervous system of horses, and how to support true wellbeing beyond training, this episode will guide you through the subtle yet powerful impact of disrupted social development — and how we can begin to restore it.
Whether you're a horse owner, equine professional, or simply passionate about horse-human connection, this conversation offers a fresh lens on herd life, integration, and safety.
Keywords & Topics We Cover:
What is social soundness in horses?
Herd dynamics and horse wellbeing
Why social connection impacts nervous system regulation
How horses communicate safety in social groups
Supporting horses with disrupted social development
Links & Resources
🌿 Want to explore this deeper? Join the Inner Circle for videos, conversations, and real-life examples on social soundness and the nervous system of horses.
👉 scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/innercircle
🌿 Let’s Stay Connected
If this episode resonates, feel free to share it or tag me on Instagram. You can also leave a review or message me directly — I love hearing what lands for you. Thank you for being here.
In this gentle, reflective episode, Steffi shares the truth behind her next chapter — not as a plan, but as a lived response to what her nervous system has been asking for. After years of creating, holding, and navigating deep personal transitions, she's entering a slower season — one led by presence, honesty, and the embodied experience of soundness.
This episode is an invitation to explore the space after survival. What happens when the pushing stops? When we make space to listen again? When we stop performing our healing and allow it to unfold?
You’ll hear:
Why even a “beautiful life” can still be held from survival mode
What the Five Pillars of Soundness look like as a lived experience
How slowing down doesn’t mean giving up — it means coming home
What happens when we let go of dreams that no longer fit
The nervous system truth behind recalibration, not burnout
Steffi also shares details about A Journey to Self — a private, presence-based space to witness her upcoming 3-week road trip through Germany and the UK, not as content, but as a living experience.
Step closer:
→ Join A Journey to Self — The Journey Feed (€55 one-time payment during April for full access)
→ Book a Pay What You Can session during the road trip
Feeling stuck, numb, or disconnected—but still judging yourself for not doing more? This episode reframes “laziness” through a polyvagal lens and explores how dorsal shutdown may be quietly running the show.
Whether you’re frozen on the inside or caring for a horse who seems “shut down” on the outside, this one is for you.
What we explore:
— What shutdown really feels like
— How it shows up in horses and humans
— Why pushing through isn’t the answer
— How to begin reconnecting—gently
🎧 Listen now and meet yourself with more compassion than ever before.
Support your journey inside the Inner Circle.
More Info at scienceforsoundness.com
Follow us @scienceforsoundness
In this episode, we’re exploring that tender, often disorienting space between what was and what’s next.
The moment when you know something has shifted—
But you don’t yet know what you’re shifting into.
Whether it’s in your horsemanship, your work, your relationships, or your own identity, this in-between phase can stir up nervous system responses that make you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or even broken.
But you’re not broken.
You’re in transition.
And this episode is here to offer grounding, understanding, and a new way to view this liminal space through a polyvagal-informed lens.
For the Horse-Human Connection:
If you’re navigating change in your relationship with your horse—perhaps shedding old ways of being but unsure how to rebuild in a new way—this episode offers support, perspective, and reassurance that the pause is part of the process.
Resources Mentioned:
→ Join the Inner Circle: the monthly membership for equestrians exploring soundness, connection, and nervous system-informed horsemanship
→ Breaking the Survival Loop: A 2-Day programme to rewire your nervous system for connection and soundness—so you and your horse can finally move beyond survival mode.
→ Follow on Instagram: @scienceforsoundness
The equestrian industry is changing—right now, in real-time. While there’s still a long way to go, more riders, trainers, and equine professionals are making choices that prioritise the horse, shifting outdated beliefs, and questioning traditional methods. This isn’t a distant dream—this is happening NOW.
In this episode, I break down 9 ways we are already transforming the horse world—for the horses. This episode is not about frustration. It’s about hope, empowerment, and tangible change that we can see and be a part of.
What You’ll Learn:
✔ How more equestrians are questioning outdated methods
✔ Why dominance-based training is losing its grip
✔ How nervous system awareness is changing the way we train
✔ Why soundness is so much more than just biomechanics
✔ How brands and professionals are evolving alongside equestrians
✔ Why trusting yourself over "industry norms" is the key to real change
This episode will remind you that YOU are part of the shift. Every small action matters. And together, we are creating a future where horses are truly seen, understood, and prioritised.
💬 What do you think? Let’s keep this conversation going! Comment here or message me on Instagram (@scienceforsoundness) and let’s talk about how you’re seeing these changes in your own journey.
Want to go deeper? The Inner Circle is where we take these conversations to the next level—real insights, real shifts, real transformation. Click HERE to see all the details and use the code "PODCAST" to save 10€ off your first month's subscription. We cannot wait to welcome you in there! 🫶🏻
The equine industry thrives on control, not connection.
It profits from stress-based training, conditions riders to comply, and silences those who question it.
But what if everything we’ve been taught about horse behaviour is wrong?
In this episode:
✔ Why the equine industry resists change
✔ The truth about “lazy,” “explosive,” and “well-behaved” horses
✔ How obedience training suppresses natural responses
✔ A simple 3-step shift to start creating real connection today
Want to Go Deeper?
Join The Inner Circle for exclusive trainings, live calls, and real transformation.
Get €10 off your first month with code “PODCAST.”
📩 DM me your thoughts: [@scienceforsoundness]
📢 Share this episode & tag me!
⭐ Leave a review—it helps more riders wake up.
👉🏻 Grab your FREE Workbook and Check your Horse-Human Connection here
🚀 It’s time to change the conversation.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing in your horsemanship journey, this episode is for you. We explore how your nervous system—and your horse’s—might actually be protecting you, rather than working against you. With personal stories, insights from polyvagal theory, and actionable takeaways, this episode is all about shifting from self-judgment to self-compassion.
What You’ll Learn:
✔ Why you’re not failing—your nervous system is protecting you.
✔ How your horse mirrors your state of being.
✔ A simple practice to shift from tension to connection.
✔ Why ‘pushing through’ often makes things worse.
✔ How the Inner Circle Membership can help you deepen your understanding.
Links & Resources:
👉 Join the Inner Circle: Comment ‘INNER CIRCLE’ on my latest Instagram post or CLICK HERE.
👉 Follow me on Instagram: @scienceforsoundness
👉 Learn more at scienceforsoundness.com
When you hear the word soundness, what comes to mind? For most people, it’s about a horse’s ability to move without lameness. But true soundness is so much more than just physical—it includes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being too.
In this episode, I’m breaking down my four pillars of soundness and how they affect both horses and humans. Because when we start to look beyond just biomechanics and movement, we uncover a deeper layer of connection, safety, and true partnership.
You’ll learn:
🐴 Why soundness isn’t just about movement—it’s about the whole nervous system
🐴 How mental & emotional balance impact a horse’s ability to learn and process
🐴 Why spiritual soundness is the most overlooked pillar (and how it affects connection)
🐴 The subtle signs that your horse (or you!) might be out of balance
🐴 Simple, practical ways to bring more balance to your relationship with your horse
True soundness isn’t just about a horse’s body—it’s about their entire well-being. And when we address these four pillars, everything shifts.
🎧 Tune in now and let’s redefine what soundness really means!
Resources & Links:
🌿 Join the Inner Circle! Want to dive deeper into polyvagal-informed horsemanship and learn how to apply these principles? The Inner Circle is where we go beyond the podcast and into real, practical transformation. Click here to join!
🎧 Related Episodes & Resources:
🔹 [Soundness Part 1 - Who or What is Healthy?]
🔹 [Free Guide: Check Your Horse-Human Connection]
💬 Let’s connect!
🐴 Instagram: @scienceforsoundness
🐴 Website: scienceforsoundness.com
🐴 Join my email list for updates & insights
If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Screenshot this episode, tag me on Instagram @scienceforsoundness, and let me know which pillar of soundness you’re focusing on this week! 🤍
And if you found this episode helpful, please take a moment to leave a review—it helps more equestrians find this work and redefine soundness with us. 🙌
Lately, I have been confronted with a few questions around our horse's health. Here are some of my thoughts, in no particular order and by no means complete, but I hope they can be a starting place for a different perspective in case you needed it.
Let me know what you think of today's episode! :)
>> This episode was recorded two years ago (!!!) but publishing felt scary, so it just sat in the drafts - until today. Part 2 with today's view will follow shortly, stay tuned! :) <<
Here are a few ways to get in touch:
Follow me on IG on www.instagram.com/scienceforsoundness
Join our Inner Circle Membership:
https://scienceforsoundness.thinkific.com/bundles/innercircle
Head to the Website or get in touch:
www.scienceforsoundness.com
In the equine industry, obedience is still prioritised over connection with the horse. We should start asking better questions to create a needs-oriented approach with horses, one that goes beyond fighting symptoms.
I envision a future where animal welfare and joy with the horse take precedence over human ego and ambition.
I delivered this keynote at the Barn Net Connect Event in Spring '24 and have finally managed to record it for you.
Feel free to let me know in the comments what impact it has had on you! 🤍
www.scienceforsoundness.com
https://www.barn-net.com/connect
>> This episode is in German for now, but I will translate this keynote into English as well - bear with me! :) <<
In unserer Pferdewelt wird Gehorsam noch immer über die Verbindung mit dem Pferd gestellt. Wir sollten anfangen, bessere Fragen zu stellen, um eine bedürfnisorientierte Herangehensweise mit Pferden zu schaffen, die über das Bekämpfen von Symptomen hinausgeht.
Ich sehe eine Zukunft, in der das Tierwohl und die Freude mit dem Pferd über menschlichem Ehrgeiz steht.
Diese Keynote habe ich auf dem Barn Net Connect Event im Frühjahr 24 gehalten und nun endlich auch geschafft sie euch aufzunehmen.
Lasst mich gerne in den Kommentaren wissen, was sie in euch bewirkt! 🤍
www.scienceforsoundness.com
https://www.barn-net.com/connect