A Summer of Growth: Miervaldis & Livino at Their Training Camp in Czech Republic

This summer, I had the privilege of entrusting my two geldings—Miervaldis and Livino—to Kristina from @physiodressage in the Czech Republic for their training camp. I couldn’t have imagined a more peaceful, supportive environment for them to learn.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Kristina’s approach goes far beyond traditional training. Her mindful, horse-centered philosophy created an atmosphere where both boys could truly settle and feel safe. Their education was guided by patience, sensitivity, and a deep respect for their individual needs—emotional, mental, and physical.

🌿 A Calm Start for Miervaldis

Miervaldis began his journey under saddle following the Balance Through Movement Method (BTMM). Kristina focused on nervous system regulation, clear communication, and cultivating connection before asking for movement.

Watching him flourish under this approach was incredibly rewarding. He became calm, confident, and genuinely willing—qualities that can only emerge when a young horse feels deeply understood and supported. Giving my youngsters this kind of thoughtful, gentle start means the world to me.

🌱 A Thoughtful Setup: Little Things That Make a Big Difference

Aside from having a trainer who prioritizes emotional well-being just as much as physical performance, a few carefully chosen environmental details played a huge role in how smoothly their stay went:

• Separate paddocks:
  They could see plenty of other horses, but without the stress of short-term herd dynamics or social reshuffling.

• Exclusive use of the arena:
  Kristina always booked the arena just for them. This meant she could work one horse while letting the other roam loose inside—switching between them as needed.
  It allowed them to have longer breaks, reduced pressure, and removed the anxiety of sharing space with unfamiliar horses.

These details may seem small, but for sensitive young horses away from home, they’re everything.

🌧️ When Plans Change: Livino’s Surprise Break

Unfortunately, Livino managed to injure his leg in the paddock shortly after arriving. His “education camp” turned into more of a vacation, while Miervaldis stepped into the spotlight and proved he was absolutely ready for it. And honestly? Sometimes that’s how these things go. Horses are great at rewriting our plans—but also great at teaching us to adapt with grace.

🌲 A Dream Ride in the Czech Forests

One of the highlights of the whole trip was taking Miervaldis for a short ride through the gorgeous Czech forests. It felt like a dream come true—those kinds of moments you imagine for years before they finally happen.

The photos look serene…
The reality was slightly more chaotic.

While I was riding Miervaldis, I couldn’t help but imagine Livino deciding to embark on a solo exploration if my husband turned his back for one second. Livino is just that independent—and he does love an adventure! 😄

❤️ Gratitude

I’m deeply grateful to Kristina for the care, sensitivity, and thoughtfulness she poured into both horses. And a huge thank you to my husband @kpilins for taking us on this little adventure—and for capturing a handful of golden moments that I’ll treasure forever.

Here’s to growth, healing, and the small, perfect memories that make this journey with horses so magical.