Hi Jeanne - connection is something that I have struggled with for some time with my mare. She is an Arabian, and is very sensitive. Some might call her "hot", although she has a great work ethic and tries very hard to please. I have always had a tendency to "throw away" the contact in an attempt to stay out of/preserve her mouth. [I know, I have defeated my own purpose!:( ] Over time we have progressed to the point of her understanding what it mean to be ridden out to the bit, and respond to inside leg to outside rein, but she still remains "fussy" in the bridle - especially in new places where she is constantly trying to take in all of her surroundings. [She is a mare and is a real "scanner"] I can generally get her connected in the walk during our warm ups rather quickly. She has a very nice walk, and seeks connection whether she is ridden on longer or shorter reins. Things tend to fall apart in trot where she can get tense, looky, inverted over her back, etc. When we are really clicking, and she comes over her back to the bit - well, it is awesome. For a small horse, her stride can be huge! Without seeing us, can you give me any general tips about my position - specifically my hands and core - that will help me to present her with a steady connection, and make her want to seek the bit consistently - even in moments when we are in unfamiliar places? I already know that if I let the least little bit of tension creep into hands/fist/wrist my horse will ping pong off the bit. I also try to keep my hands out of my lap - more in front of me in the area of the pommel. What else do I need to be consciously aware of? Thanks in advance!! Love your blog and website!:)