Save on this value bundle of Book plus DVD from Mark Russell
Book – Lessons in Lightness, Expanded Edition
Published posthumously, Lessons in Lightness: Expanded Edition deepens and refines Mark Russell’s vision of Art Form Riding through carefully structured gymnastic progressions that develop relaxation, balance, flexibility, and strength in harmony. Building on the original 2004 edition, this full-color volume shows how mobility gives rise to forward energy, allowing horses to work with calmness, willingness, and expressive power. Lessons progress logically from in-hand work to under saddle, addressing jaw and spinal access, acceptance of the bit, postural balance, and strength developed through lateral work and rein-back. A significant new chapter by Jillian Kreinbring, M.S., explores the stomatognathic system, expanding the book’s biomechanical depth. Together with Mark’s lifelong influences—from Nuno Oliveira to Tai Chi, Chi Gong, and select natural horsemanship principles—this book stands as both a practical guide and a lasting testament to a horseman devoted to clarity, kindness, and classical truth.
DVD – Releasing the Jaw, Poll, and Neck: More Lessons in Lightness
In this instructional film, Mark Russell demonstrates how to teach horses to relax, soften, and truly accept the bit by releasing tension in the jaw, poll, and neck. Working on the ground with a simple bridle, Mark guides seven different horses—each with distinct physical, emotional, or experiential challenges—through a clear, progressive process that replaces resistance with understanding. As relaxation becomes familiar, horses begin to seek it, creating a positive feedback loop that allows healthy movement, sound biomechanics, and genuine connection to emerge. This foundational work addresses issues that often quietly limit progress in riding, making it essential viewing for riders who sense they are “stuck” without knowing why. Grounded in Mark’s deep study of equine biomechanics, Tai Chi, and his mentorship under Nuno Oliveira, the DVD offers rare insight into relaxation as the gateway to Art Form Riding.
