Standing Together in Balance

Hi everyone!
So I am working with my boy, Samwise on trick training and to tolerate me learning to trick ride on him. So yesterday I did a little bit of playing around: standing on him and practicing trying to stand up while he is walking. It is a slow progression but I want to get it right and not rush Sam or myself.
One of the things I am really learning in this process is balance and that's what I want to talk about a little bit today. Balance is crucial, not just in trick riding but in our every day riding. If you don't have the foundation from the beginning you will not be prepared for the more advanced things to come. Dedicate yourself to not just trying to create the picture perfect form, but dedicate to using your seat and really feeling in-tune to your horse's movement. Take the time to observe your horse's movement both free and under the saddle. Ride bareback and get a feel for his movement. Practice feeling his footfalls underneath you while in the saddle and trust me, it can be easier said than done. ;)
Also, this is not the most fun part..but you have to work on yourself specifically too. Build up those leg and core muscles. As I noticed yesterday, with shaky legs as I stood up on Sam and then tried to add movement to the mix...I need leg day....every day! So it's squats and planks for me! In order to steady yourself and keep in motion with your horse it will require you to strengthen your muscles and increase your flexibility. It will also help you become a better rider in many different other aspects. So when thinking about standing on your horse make sure you are confident with your balance and the horse is confident in his before you try it. Have a spotter with you and holding your horse in case something happens and take it slowly. Start by kneeling then gradually working your way up. Be careful not to jab your horse on the back with your shoes and bring yourself down as gently and proportionally as possible. Do this as slowly and as long as it takes without any reaction from your horse. Once you and your horse are comfortable with this you can start trying it at the walk. Once again, have someone walk with you and the horse. Gradually repeat the same process: kneeling then gradually going to your feet. Always take your time and learn to get comfortable with the movement of each progression before you move on.
We need to have not only physical balance but balance in our mindset as well. We need to have the right proportion of knowing when to press on and when to pause and let a particular movement sink in before we venture on to the next step. Trick horses and trick riders are not born in a day, a week, or even in months. Learn to know when you've reached your limit and don't let fatigue set in for either you or your horse before you quit. End on a good note and understand that progress sometimes will just come in the form of balancing your body and mind just a second longer each time! :)