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IH Magazine Winter 2023

Explore Your Winter 2023 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! We’ve packed your latest issue of Intelligent Horsemanship Magazine full of practical insights, inspiring member stories, and expert advice to help you and your horse thrive — even when the paddocks are soggy and the daylight is short.

This winter edition is full of fascinating training advice, gentle wellness strategies, and thought-provoking reflections on what it really means to live and learn with horses the IH way. It’s all about making life better for both you and your four-legged companions – something close to my heart (and Pie and Blondie’s too!).

What’s Inside?

I’ve been reflecting on what Intelligent Horsemanship really means, and I’ve shared my thoughts in this issue — from philosophy to productivity and the importance of asking for help without guilt (yes, even if you’re not doing everything yourself).

Our training section is particularly strong this issue:

  • Sue Palmer shares stretches to help your horse feel more comfortable and relaxed
  • Gillian Higgins explains how horses develop from ages 3 to 6 — a must-read if you’re working with youngsters
  • Abi Pass teaches us how to improve balance and coordination for both safety and performance
  • I explore how Happy Hackers can take a page from the Eventers’ playbook to build skills and confidence

We’ve also got a brilliant member spotlight on Sophie Woolf — a true horse midwife! — plus the results of our IH Short Story Competition, with the heart-warming winning story “Emily at the Beach” that I know will bring a smile to your face.

And for our book lovers, I’ve taken an in-depth (and possibly controversial!) look at “Horse Brain, Human Brain” — a thoughtful read with so many takeaways for anyone interested in how horses really think.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Winter can bring its challenges — the mud, the wind, the never-ending question of “Is that rug still waterproof?” — but this issue is full of help, hope, and heartfelt guidance to get you through it.

I’ve been trying Sue Palmer’s stretching suggestions with Pie and he absolutely melts (Blondie’s more interested in what snacks come afterwards!). And if you’re bringing on a young horse or just curious about what’s going on inside them as they grow, Gillian Higgins’ guidance is absolutely essential.

Abi’s training for coordination is such a good one for any age or level, especially if your horse is a bit wobbly or unsure. Plus, I’ve found that applying eventing strategies to everyday hacking makes a world of difference in both confidence and safety — especially when Blondie gets one of her “enthusiastic” moments!

And if you’re after a feel-good read, Ruth Parry’s short story is such a lovely reminder of the joy our horses bring. The bond between Emily (the horse), her owner, and even the cat is something truly special.

As always, this magazine (and our whole archive!) is free to all members — along with training videos, webinars, and lots more on the IH website. Not yet a member? Come and join us – we’d love to have you!

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: The Three P’s: Philosophy, Positivity & Productivity
I reflect on what Intelligent Horsemanship really means and share how thinking like a professional (without the pressure!) can bring more joy and success to your horse life.

06 – Letters & Cartoon by Nat
Wonderful member feedback and a fantastic cartoon to bring a smile – I especially loved the story about the cat who joined in on a beach ride!

07 – IH News
The latest happenings from IH HQ, including Lincs Horse Live and exciting future plans.

09 – IH Members’ Photos
A beautiful collection of photos from our talented members – thank you to everyone who sent one in.

10 – Meet a Member: Sophie Woolf
Stud manager and “horse midwife” Sophie shares her inspiring story and how IH ideals are helping her raise the next generation of Thoroughbreds.

13 – IH Short Story Competition: The Results!
We reveal our well-deserving winner and runner-up – such a talented group of entries this year.

14 – IH Short Story: “Emily at the Beach” by Ruth Parry
A heartfelt tale about rediscovering joy, written with humour, honesty and warmth – and yes, a cat does ride a horse.

17 – IH Training: A Guide to Keeping Your Equine Happy & Healthy with Sue Palmer
Sue Palmer shares practical stretches to help your horse feel better, move more freely, and avoid discomfort.

20 – IH Training: Growth & Development of Horses with Gillian Higgins
Gillian Higgins explains what’s happening inside your horse from age 3 to 6 – brilliant insights for anyone raising a youngster.

22 – IH Training: How Happy Hackers Can Benefit from the Skills of Eventing
My take on how learning from professional riders can help us everyday riders gain confidence and connection.

26 – IH Training: The Importance of Training Balance and Coordination in Your Horse with Abi Pass
Abi Pass gives us targeted exercises to help horses move better and feel more confident – particularly useful for winter groundwork.

31 – Spotlight on: Jim Goddard
Celebrating the work of this dedicated horseman and his thoughtful, quiet approach to horsemanship.

32 – Rehoming a Horse with HorseWorld by Meg Jackson
Meg Jackson shares what really goes into giving a horse a new start – and how rewarding the journey can be.

34 – Book Review: Horse Brain, Human Brain by Janet L. Jones PhD
An honest and in-depth review of this fascinating book, plus a helpful extract we think you’ll love.

38 – Cannabis Oil for Horses
A look at the latest science behind equine CBD, including real-life results and how it may help your horse.

40 – IH Debate: Are Horses the Mirror of our Soul?
We explore whether this popular phrase holds up under scrutiny – or risks oversimplifying what our horses are telling us.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real feedback from real clients – always one of my favourite parts to read.

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philosophy, physiotherapy, proprioception, stretching, hacking, young horse, balance and coordination, herbal healing, rescue horses, short story, horse psychology, behaviour, human-horse relationship, confidence, trust, winter, welfare, groundwork, ridden exercises

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IH Magazine Summer 2023

Explore Your Summer 2023 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! What a glorious summer we’ve got in store – and this issue is packed full of expert guidance, horse-first wisdom, and real-life inspiration to help you and your horses thrive through the sunny months ahead.

We’ve covered everything from tendon care and barefoot hooves to training aids and liberty work. It’s also a very special issue, as we bid a fond farewell to our brilliant editor Zoë Smith, who’s been at the helm of IH Magazine for six fabulous years. She leaves us with a collection of her favourite interviews and a truly inspiring feature on eventing coach Caroline Moore.

From no-nonsense hoof health advice to reflections on teamwork, rider psychology, and the power of breathing and slowing down — there’s something here for every horse lover.

What’s Inside?

I’ve shared insights from our IH Trainers’ Meeting — from sensory overload in horses to clever protective gear hacks! You’ll also hear about how we can help spotted breeds like Appaloosas with sight issues that are often misunderstood.

Our training section is jam-packed with value:

  • I’ve teamed up with farrier-turned-barefoot trimmer Matthew Jackson to bring you a vital piece on hoof health from day one
  • Abi Pass shares her detailed guide to using lungeing rollers and headgear — based on real research
  • Gillian Higgins delivers a must-read feature on tendon injuries and management
  • Suz Crichton-Stuart introduces Equine Touch™ bodywork techniques you can try at home

Plus, don’t miss our deep-dive with Caroline Moore, insights from our Members, and a beautifully thoughtful story from our latest Writer of the Year.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This edition is an absolute gem for practical horsemanship and deepening your connection with your horse. Whether you’re thinking about rider fitness, managing soundness, or supporting mental wellbeing — it’s all here.

Our hoof care piece is one of the most important we’ve published — I’ve learned so much working on it, and I know Pie and Blondie are benefiting already. Caroline Moore’s interview is full of gold dust if you’ve got competitive aspirations, or just want to ride better.

And I must admit, the Equine Touch feature really piqued my interest — there’s something very special about connecting through gentle, informed bodywork. I’ve already tried a few techniques with Pie!

As ever, your membership gives you access to this and every past issue, plus exclusive training resources, webinars, and a wonderfully supportive community. Not a member yet? We’d love you to join us.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: The Wisdom Gained from the IH Trainers’ Meeting
I reflect on lessons from our incredible IH Trainers — from breathing and slowing down, to sensory overload, spook-busting tips and the importance of teamwork.

08 – Letters and Feedback
Real stories, gratitude and thoughtful insights from our lovely IH Members – including feedback on Perfect Manners and Horse Psychology courses.

09 – Members’ Photos
Gorgeous snapshots from across the IH community – from chilled out cobs to adventurous foals. Mario gets our canvas wall-art prize this season!

10 – Meet a Member: Charlie More
Charlie’s incredible journey from the Army to the NHS, via horses, helicopters and IH Membership – a must-read for inspiration.

13 – IH Equine Writer of the Year 2023
Our annual short story competition is open — could your tale be the next winner?

14 – The Big Interview: Caroline Moore
Zoë Smith speaks to the brilliant coach behind champions like Ros Canter about training systems, resilience and her new charity to support young eventers.

18 – Big Lessons from The Big Interviews
Zoë shares her favourite insights from six years of Big Interviews — from Tim Stockdale to Clare Balding, it’s a treasure trove of wisdom.

20 – IH Training: No Foot, No Horse
I team up with barefoot expert Matthew Jackson to explore how hoof health starts from day one — a brilliant, practical feature to keep and revisit.

23 – IH Training: A Research-Based Guide to the Lungeing Roller and Headgear with Abi Pass
What does the science really say about side-reins, bungees and rollers? Abi gives a clear-eyed view of tools that can help — or hinder.

26 – IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle – Part 4
Jim Goddard’s riding series continues — it’s time to bring your groundwork knowledge into the saddle for a smooth, successful ride.

29 – IH Training: Tendon Injury Care & Management with Gillian Higgins
Gillian brings her anatomical expertise to this essential guide on tendon health — from recognising early signs to management techniques.

32 – Book Extract: Steven Kraus, CJF – Shoeing the Modern Horse
From America’s top farriers — a fascinating extract on how modern hoof care can keep horses sound, healthy and happy.

36 – IH Debate: Should Horse Ownership be Licensed?
A bold question posed by our editorial team — what would licensing really mean for horses and their people?

38 – IH Training: Equine Touch™ with Suz Crichton-Stuart
An introduction to Equine Touch™ – a simple but powerful bodywork technique to relax, rebalance and support your horse’s wellbeing.

40 – Spotlight on: Jessica Pryor
Meet one of our newest IH Trainers, working in Edinburgh and already making waves with her thoughtful, gentle approach.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Heart-warming success stories from clients of our IH Trainers – always one of the most popular parts of the magazine.

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hoof care, barefoot, tendons, equine bodywork, training aids, rider psychology, eventing, liberty training, groundwork, ridden exercises, lunging, rehabilitation, horse-human relationship, book review, summer,

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IH Magazine Spring 2023 Cover

Explore Your Spring 2023 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! As the wildflowers begin to bloom and the sun peeks out from winter hibernation, it’s the perfect time to refresh, reset and refocus. This Spring issue is full of inspiring stories, training advice, and thoughtful guidance to help you and your horse step into the season with confidence.

Whether you’re preparing for your first fun ride of the year, reflecting on your long-term horse care goals, or just need a motivational boost, we’ve packed this edition with practical help and heartfelt insight. From the weekend rider wisdom of William Steinkraus to strategies for lifelong soundness, this issue is about growing together — mind, body and hoof!

What’s Inside?

I’ve written about one of the biggest influences on my early riding life — William Steinkraus — and how even as a “weekend rider”, you can accomplish remarkable things with the right mindset and intention.

Our training section is a true spring standout:

  • Our mega-feature explores how to help your horse stay sound for life — with insights from Dr Sue Dyson, Gillian Higgins, Sandra Williams and more
  • Jim Goddard continues his brilliant series on building confidence in the saddle
  • Gillian Higgins shows us how horses develop in their early years — a must-read if you’re working with youngsters

We’ve also got a brilliant chat with legendary show producer Jayne Ross, stunning stories from our members (including an inspiring journey into endurance riding!), and a reminder that every one of us — whether weekend rider or professional — is part of this wonderful IH community.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

This one’s all about long-term care, thoughtful training, and personal growth — for both horse and human.

If you’ve ever worried about keeping your horse sound and happy for the long haul (and who hasn’t?), you’ll love our comprehensive feature on maintaining soundness — from saddle fit to nutrition to emotional wellbeing. Pie and Blondie are both benefiting already from these wise and practical suggestions.

Jayne Ross’ interview is full of gold for anyone who wants their riding to feel more harmonious and joyful. I found myself nodding along with so many of her thoughtful, grounded insights. And if you’ve been dreaming of taking on a writing challenge, don’t miss the details of our Short Story competition!

Spring is such a wonderful time to set intentions for the year ahead — and this magazine is the perfect place to start.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: The Wisdom of a Weekend Rider
I reflect on the riding philosophy of William Steinkraus, and what we can learn from his subtle, thoughtful, and truly inspiring approach to horsemanship — no matter how much time we spend in the saddle.

06 – Your Horse Live 2022
From clippers to trailers to emotional breakthroughs — we recap our amazing Your Horse Live demos with real case studies and practical takeaways.

08 – Letters and Feedback
Stories and reflections from our brilliant IH community — including some powerful thoughts on “Social Licence to Ride”.

09 – Members’ Photos
A celebration of your horses and ponies — from foals to veterans, beach rides to liberty work. Beautiful, as always.

10 – Meet a Member: Dominic Smith – An Enduring Horsemanship Journey
Dominic shares his inspiring route into horses, barefoot endurance riding, and finding his perfect partner in George — with a Dually® and a dream.

12 – IH Short Story Writer of the Year 2023
Feeling creative? Enter our annual short story competition for a chance to win £500 and be published in the magazine.

14 – The Big Interview: Jayne Ross
Legendary showing producer Jayne Ross talks to Zoë Smith about patience, personality, and the secrets to those iconic gallops.

18 – IH Training: How to Keep Your Horse Sound for Life
Kelly Marks, Sandra Williams, Sue Palmer, Clare MacLeod and Dr Sue Dyson join forces to share practical steps for lifelong horse health.

28 – IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle – Part 3
Jim Goddard helps riders bring confidence and connection from the ground into the saddle with practical riding exercises.

32 – IH Training: The Early Years – How the Horse Develops with Gillian Higgins
Gillian explains how your horse’s body and mind develop from birth — and how to support them through every stage.

36 – IH Debate: Are Horses a Hobby for the Rich?
An open, honest look at access, affordability, and how we keep equestrianism inclusive for the future.

38 – Book Extract: For the Love of the Horse by Mark Rashid
A thoughtful extract from Mark Rashid’s latest book — always a voice of calm, empathy and understanding.

40 – Spotlight On: IH Trainer Sarah Todd
Meet Sarah Todd, an IH Trainer whose journey is full of heart, purpose and commitment to the horses she helps.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real stories of transformation from those who’ve worked with IH Trainers — always a joy to read.

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soundness, hoof care, saddle fit, endurance, barefoot, showing, young horse, groundwork,  rider positioning and biomechanics, body language, horse psychology, behaviour, spring, welfare, social licence, ridden work, writing competition,

 

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Explore Your Winter 2022 IH Magazine!

Hello IH Members and friends! This issue of Intelligent Horsemanship Magazine is one very close to my heart. As the winter winds blow and the horses get fluffier (Pie looks like a cuddly teddy bear right now!), we’ve wrapped up your magazine with warmth, wisdom and a whole lot of horse-sense.

We dive into the exhilarating topic of galloping – whether you’re already out there racing the wind or (like me) prefer a calm canter, you’ll love our expert insights. There’s a whole lot of helpful advice for winter training, from feeding for stamina to choosing the right lunging routine. And Sandra Williams gives us an exclusive look at her new book on loading those less easy horses – it’s like gold dust if you’ve ever had a horse that simply says “no thanks!” at the ramp!

You’ll also read about the biomechanics of gallop, the psychology behind ‘dominance’ in horse training, and a heart-warming tale from the ever-brilliant Fran Severn. All this, plus wonderful member stories, photos, and a spotlight on the fabulous Lucy Newham.

What’s Inside?

We’ve packed this winter issue with a real mix to keep you learning, smiling and connecting with your horse even more deeply:

• Gillian Higgins breaks down the biomechanics of gallop – and it’s more complex than you might think
• Jo Davis shares practical guidance on how to safely experience the thrill of galloping
• Abi Pass weighs up the pros and cons of lungeing – a must-read if it’s in your winter routine
• Sandra Williams’ new book extract is a fantastic hands-on guide to loading difficult horses
• Clare MacLeod (part 3 of her brilliant feeding series!) explains how to feed for speed and stamina
• Jim Goddard continues his brilliant training series, with groundwork to ridden progression
• Dr Rosie Jones-McVey challenges our thinking about dominance in horse behaviour – very thought-provoking
• Fran Severn makes us smile (and maybe cry a little) with her delightful book extract
• Member spotlight on Lucy Newham – we love sharing your journeys!

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Winter can be a tricky time – short days, cold toes and muddy fields (Blondie’s currently winning the ‘dirtiest horse’ award!). But this issue is full of ways to keep both you and your horse motivated and moving forward.

We’ve put a big focus on movement this time – galloping, loading, groundwork… all the things that keep your partnership strong. Whether you’re warming up indoors or dashing through a frosty field, you’ll find insights that really help. I especially recommend Sandra Williams’ piece on loading – it’s so reassuring to know you’re not alone when things don’t go to plan.

And if you’re pondering whether dominance really exists in our relationships with horses, Rosie’s article might just shift your whole perspective – it certainly gave me pause for thought.

Whether you’re curling up with this magazine after a long yard day or planning your winter training sessions, I hope this edition brings you confidence, clarity and connection.

All our members can access this magazine for free, along with our complete magazine archive and loads of exclusive videos and resources. Not a member yet? Come and join our friendly community – we’d love to have you!

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 Kelly Marks – My World: New Beginnings
I reflect on fresh starts and the beauty of embracing change – both for horses and ourselves.

06 Letters and Feedback
Your experiences, kind words and brilliant ideas – always one of my favourite sections.

07 IH News
Updates from IH HQ – find out what we’ve all been up to and what’s coming next.

09 Members’ Photos
Such beautiful snapshots of your lives with horses – thank you for sharing.

10 Meet a Member: Imran Atcha
An inspiring story of connection, determination, and how IH principles are being shared far and wide.

12 WINNER Announced: IH Equine Photographer of the Year 2022
We unveil the winner of our much-loved photography competition – prepare to be wowed!

16 IH Training: The Biomechanics of Gallop – Gillian Higgins
Gillian explains how and why fast work can benefit your horse – essential reading this winter.

20 IH Training: How to Gallop Like a Pro – Jo Davis
Practical advice for getting the best from your gallops – safely, effectively, and enjoyably.

23 IH Training: The Pros and Cons of Lungeing – Abi Pass
Abi helps us balance tradition with research, so you can make the right call for your horse.

26 IH Training: Feeding for Muscle, Speed & Stamina – Clare MacLeod (Part 3)
Nutritional strategies to support winter work and recovery.

28 IH Training: Loading the Less Easy Horse – Sandra Williams (Book Extract)
Sandra shares her brilliant techniques and case studies to help your horse travel with confidence.

30 IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle – Jim Goddard
Practical progression work that builds confidence and trust step by step.

34 Is ‘Dominance’ a Useful Term for Horse Training? – Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
A challenging and thoughtful look at a common (and controversial) training idea.

38 Book Extract: Riders of a Certain Age – Fran Severn
A joyful and wise excerpt for those of us who know age is just a number.

40 Spotlight On: Lucy Newham
Meet IH Trainer Lucy – her journey is inspiring, and her passion shines through.

43 IH Trainer Client Feedback
Heart-warming stories from horse owners who’ve worked with our amazing IH Trainers.

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anatomy, book review, biomechanics, confidence, dominance, anxiety, behaviour, equine bodywork, nutrition, welfare, groundwork, galloping, horse psychology, horse-human relationship, lungeing, loading, muscle development, winter

IH Magazine Autumn 2022
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IH Magazine Autumn 2022

Explore Your Autumn 2022 IH Magazine!

This issue really brings together the power of learning – not just for our horses, but for us too. I’ve popped in some insights from the ‘greats’, and you’ll find training wisdom from IH favourites like Clare MacLeod and Emma Sharman, along with fresh perspectives from equine professionals working at the very forefront of behaviour and equine welfare.

What’s Inside?

• I’ve shared some personal tips passed down from the very best horsemen and women I’ve been lucky enough to learn from.
• Dr Andrew Hemmings offers a deep dive into the equine brain (spoiler alert: it’s fascinating!).
• Jim Goddard continues his brilliant series on transferring groundwork to the saddle.
• There’s a cracking set of articles on feeding for performance, recognising signs of colic, and demystifying the ever-controversial “heels down” rule.
• And of course, we’ve sprinkled in uplifting member stories, thoughtful letters, and some brilliant photography.

Why You’ll Love This Issue

Autumn’s such a special time – Pie and Blondie are usually full of beans, and I find it’s the perfect season for reflection and gentle progress. Whether you’re helping your horse through box rest, fine-tuning their nutrition, or simply enjoying the last sunny hacks before winter, this issue’s got something to support you.

I especially loved the myth-busting around mare-ish behaviours and heels down – both topics I think we’ve all got strong opinions on! Plus, if you’ve ever wondered what it means for our right to ride horses in the modern world, the “Social Licence to Ride” debate is a must-read.

Let’s keep learning and growing together – that’s what Intelligent Horsemanship is all about.

Complete Contents with Article Descriptions

04 – Kelly Marks – My World: Tips from the Best of the Best
I share my favourite golden nuggets from decades of working with top horsepeople – the kind of advice that never goes out of date.

06 – Letters and Feedback
Our members always offer such thoughtful reflections – and a good dose of humour too.

07 – IH News
Latest updates from IH HQ, including course news and exciting member milestones.

09 – Members’ Photos
A gallery of heart-warming images from our talented IH community.

10 – Meet a Member: James Cooling GP
James shares how he juggles life as a GP and horse owner, and how IH has influenced his training.

12 – Last Chance: IH Equine Photographer of the Year 2022
Your final reminder to enter our much-loved annual competition!

14 – The Big Interview: Andrew Hemmings
A fascinating conversation about horse brains, memory, learning, and emotional states.

18 – IH Training: Understanding Mare-ish Behaviours with Dr Rosie Jones-McVey
Rosie looks beyond stereotypes to explain what really drives so-called ‘mare-ish’ behaviour.

21 – IH Training: Feeding for Muscle, Speed & Stamina – Part 2 with Clare MacLeod
Top nutritionist Clare continues her essential series on performance feeding.

24 – IH Training: From the Ground to the Saddle with Jim Goddard
Jim’s thoughtful approach helps you transfer groundwork techniques to ridden work.

28 – IH Training: Preparing Your Horse for Box Rest with Emma Sharman
Practical strategies to keep horses healthy and happy through confinement.

31 – IH Training: Stickability – the Myth of ‘Heels Down’
We challenge a riding cliché and explore what really helps you stay secure in the saddle.

34 – IH Training: Noticing the Subtle Signs of Colic by Charlie Carr
Charlie helps you catch the warning signs early, potentially saving your horse’s life.

36 – IH Debate: A Social Licence to Ride?
A timely discussion on the evolving ethics of horse riding and public perception.

38 – Book Extract: Sport Horse Soundness and Performance
An expert insight into maintaining equine soundness and competitive longevity.

40 – Spotlight On: Claire Mitchell
Claire shares her story and what led her to become a committed IH Trainer.

43 – IH Trainer Client Feedback
Real-life stories of transformation and connection thanks to IH’s kind methods.

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autumn, confidence, behaviour, anxiety,  brain & senses, nutrition, groundwork, horse-human relationship, colic, rehabilitation, ridden exercises, social licence, box rest,

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