Dida uses the same methods that horses naturally use to communicate with each other & to investigate new and unfamiliar objects. The use of pressure and release - advance and retreat is simple and straight forward and allows the handler to increase the horses' confidence and tolerence of situations without putting the horse under increased stress or raising his adreneline. Obviously included in the mix is good quality well fitted tack, a safe training environment, a relaxed and confident trainer and a horse that is physically and mentally up to the task ahead. Yes we do have to prepare them for what we expect them to cope with!
Dida believes that every aspect of your relationship with your horse can benefit from effective ground work. Whether the problem you're addressing is a clipper phobia, napping on a hack, your own lack of confidence, or lateral work under saddle, working the horse effectively in-hand is the best possible place to start from.
If you're relaxed and compassionate when you're around your horse, are patient, consistent, and calm, then it doesn't matter how little experience you have. Set up what you want to happen, ask politely, and wait - then reward. If your horse offers behaviour that isn't what you're after do absolutely nothing, remain calm, and allow him the time to work out what you want, and as soon as he makes the slightest try in the right direction, reward immediately by first ceasing to ask and then by giving a little scratch or rub on a favourite spot.
Thats it. Be fair and consistent and your horse will learn to trust you. For him to know that there is no punishment for him when trying to work out what the desired behaviour is is the most valuable tool you have - essentially your patience is priceless. If you think of your horses training as a building, then it is highly beneficial to spend extra time on the foundations (groundwork groundwork groundwork is the key to everything!) you will then re-gain any time that you feel you may have lost as your future training will be with a relaxed horse that trusts your intentions and is willing to try anything new.
Tip: The horse is your mirror - listen to it!