2020 recipient

Ryanne Davis

I have been an equestrienne since I was young, and have always had an intrinsic fascination for riding horses. I took every opportunity I could to ride, but soon lost the joy that came with riding when I began to have to force horses to be obedient. I later realized that I was developing increased tension while riding, and in turn experienced increased frustration. Before long, I endeavored to become a better rider and find joy again in riding. After extensive research, I discovered Art2Ride, a horse training method which teaches a horse to develop better use of themselves before adding the weight of a rider so they can then carry a rider more efficiently and comfortably. I experimented with this method with horses I rode, and noticed immediate changes in their behavior – they were calm, willing, eager, and seemed to move effortlessly. I have been practicing this method for several years, and am now a Certified Associate Trainer with the Art2Rde program. This horse training program led me to seek a similar method for humans, which is how I uncovered Alexander Technique. I immediately recognized the language of the head and neck being “free”, which is similar to how I train horses to “free” their necks in order to unlock their bodies and release tension, and ultimately develop better self-use and self-carriage. I started taking lessons with Karen DeWig, and soon observed positive changes while I rode horses. Alexander Technique lessons have transformed my balance, stability, and effectiveness as a rider, and I am looking forward to teacher training to assist both equestrians and nonequestrians alike to use themselves more efficiently and comfortably. I am so honored and thrilled to be a recipient of the Judith Leibowitz Scholarship, especially being a young African American woman in the equestrian realm where I do not often find other people of color. I hope to encourage and witness that phenomenon change through my training and career as an Alexander Technique Teacher.