About Maria

Get to Know Dr. Maria Katsamanis

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Education

Dr. Maria Katsamanis has received worldwide recognition as a horse trainer, clinician, exhibition rider, and author.  She has transformed the lives of countless horses through her unique approach to training. Utilizing her background in equine and human psychology to examine the fundamental mechanics of the human-equine interaction, Dr. Maria helps riders communicate more effectively with their horses. It sounds simple, but this subtle ‘science’ is a game-changer.

Dr. Maria holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and maintains an appointment as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Rutgers Medical School. Her background in biofeedback and psychophysiology is central to her training approach, dubbed “molecular equitation,” which examines the connection between horse and rider on a molecular level. Full details on Maria’s approach can be found in her book “The Alchemy of Lightness: What Happens Between Horse and Rider on a Molecular Level and How it Helps Achieve the Ultimate Connection.”

Dr. Maria uses her education as a clinical scientist to help demystify and explain the elements of a magical formula that are key in establishing the ultimate connection with our horses.  She also holds an International degree in Equine Osteopathy and an advanced certification in Posture therapy, which gives her a “gamechanger” way to approach biomechanics and balance for both horse and rider.

Her explanations of the barriers and myths that block the path between horse and rider results in freeing them both and thus makes the dance accessible to anyone regardless of age or breed. Dr. Maria is honored to be sought out as a clinician both here and abroad.


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Equine Background

A native of Greece, the mythology and folklore around the tradition of horsemanship made a significant mark early in her life. Dr. Maria studied in Greece, France, and the United States. Her commitment to the classical tradition is longstanding and she continues to perfect her art.

Dr. Maria’s early equestrian career included working as an exercise rider for a French racing barn and had the privilege of participating as a display rider in Queen Elizabeth’s II Diamond Jubilee at Windsor Castle. She maintains a residence on the island of Crete in the town of Gergeri but resides in the United States where she maintains an active and exclusive student base in New Jersey.

“Decide today not to push and pull and watch everything change”

– Dr. Maria Katsamanis

Keys to Her Training Philosophy

"When art and science meet to harness the ultimate connection." - Dr. Maria Katsamanis

The training foundation is based on classical French and Greek principles. These training methods have proven successful to numerous horses and riders across various riding disciplines. These techniques can be beneficial whether your pursuit is dressage, western riding, improved jumping, driving, endurance or experiencing a safer more fulfilling trail ride.

The 3 S's

Specializing in classical French, Dr. Maria’s methods include in-hand work, advanced lunge-work, and long-reining. The sequence always includes work-in hand lunging followed by riding to promote SUPPLENESS, STRENGTH and SELF-CARRIAGE
(the 3 S’s).

Physiology

Committed to studying human and equine physiology, her training focuses on the self-carriage of the horse and rider. Only in balance and relaxation can the correct muscle formation occur, physical blocks be dissipated, and mental communication be facilitated.

Individuality

It is always very important to remember that each horse is an individual and with Dr. Maria they are treated as such and their education is tailored to their personality and physical profile—all with a solid foundation in a classical French recipe.

Reciprocal

Horsemanship is more than the horse. Horses are brought to us and challenge us to reconnect with ourselves. This reciprocal “helping” —helping of the horse, helping of the human often challenges people to find training methods that will help them grow with their equine mate.

Blueprint

Upon meeting, Dr. Maria sees a blueprint of what the horse will look like when the muscling, balance and comfort are established. The challenge of working with different breeds has allowed her to consider the physical and mental aspects of training in a completely novel way.

Breathing

It is also important to realize that breathing behavior is a cornerstone feature for both the horse and the human. As a clinician, Dr. Maria finds it beneficial to utilize her background in biofeedback and psychophysiology to help “connect” humans with their own body signals.

 

Dr. Maria at Work

Dr. Maria's Homebase

In Hopewell, New Jersey amwell farm serves as Maria’s homebase where she offers training, boarding, sales and clinic services.

Maria works with riders in every discipline and with different breeds, all with identical objectives in mind- the physical and mental wellness of the horse. Dr. Maria is commitment to the welfare of the horse and she is open to working within different budgets to meet your goals.

Mythos Farm

Dr. Maria is currently accepting horses in training!

Contact Dr. Maria

Mythos Farm

(732) 921-0565
mskatsamani@aol.com

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