These rules exist to protect the learning space, not to police people. 1️⃣ Lead with Curiosity Share experiences, observations, and questions—not ultimatums. Instead of: “You should just…” Try: “What’s worked for me…” “Have you considered…” “I’m curious what happens if…” 2️⃣ Horse-First, Always Advice should consider: - The horse’s physical comfort - Emotional state - Learning history If a suggestion prioritizes control over understanding, it doesn’t belong here. 3️⃣ No Discipline or Method Shaming All disciplines and backgrounds are welcome. This is not a place to: - Dismiss others based on discipline - Promote superiority of one system - Mock “less advanced” questions We learn across disciplines here. 4️⃣ Behavior Is Information We don’t label horses as: - Stubborn - Lazy - Dominant - Bad Describe what you see and what’s happening, not what you assume. 5️⃣ Debate Ideas, Not People Disagreement is okay. Disrespect is not. - No personal attacks - No sarcasm aimed at individuals - No “gotcha” replies If a conversation stops being productive, moderators may step in. 6️⃣ No Fear-Based or Punitive Advice Advice rooted in: - Intimidation - Flooding - Escalation for compliance - “Make them learn” thinking …will be removed. Discussion about these approaches is welcome. Promotion of them is not. 7️⃣ This Is Not a Marketplace - No unsolicited promotions - No DMing members to sell services - No affiliate links without permission If you have something valuable to share, ask first. 8️⃣ Protect Psychological Safety - No diagnosing horses or humans - No shaming emotional responses - No minimizing someone’s experience Growth happens best in safety. 9️⃣ Stay Engaged, Stay Kind If you post a question: - Be open to feedback - Stay involved in the discussion - Remember: learning is collaborative 🔟 Moderator Discretion To maintain the integrity of this space: - Posts may be edited or removed - Repeat violations may result in removal

Before you dive in, take a minute to read this. This post sets the tone for how we learn, share, and show up here. ✅ This IS a place for: - People who care deeply about their horses’ physical and emotional well-being - Riders of any discipline, level, age, or background - Curiosity, reflection, and thoughtful conversation - Asking why, not just how - Learning skills and mindset together - Seeing behavior as information, not defiance - Open-minded discussion, experimentation, and shared learning - Riders who are willing to keep evolving—even when it’s uncomfortable You don’t need to have all the answers here. You just need to be willing to ask better questions. 🚫 This is NOT a place for: - Discipline shaming or “my way is the only way” thinking - Dominance, intimidation, or fear-based training advice - Quick fixes that ignore the horse’s experience - Ego-driven hierarchy (titles matter less than curiosity here) - Arguments meant to win instead of understand - Rigid tradition for tradition’s sake We can talk about any approach— but we do it through inquiry, respect, and the lens of the horse. 🧠 How to Get the Most Out of This Lab - Read posts with curiosity before reacting - Share experiences, not ultimatums - Ask questions that open dialogue - Assume good intent—from humans and horses alike - Remember: learning is a process, not a performance This is a lab, not a courtroom. We’re here to explore, test, and learn—together. If this resonates, you’re in the right place. If it challenges you a little… you’re still in the right place. Welcome 💙