Super Suber

I've gone back to basics and for the last few days I've been working with Anky in the stables, simply asking for a release and relaxation of the jaw from an upward, gently vibrating rein on the corners of her lips. She's guarded, and you can feel the tension in her lips, but we've been making some progress.
Today I took her up to the school and we had the same session in-hand. It seemed like suddenly it clicked, but I know that she's been mulling it over and coming round to it for the last few days and has now decided that it's ok and she can do it. She released, relaxed and stretched her head and neck down to the ground. A modest start, but I'm hoping that this will be the start of work with less tension and more relaxation mentally and physically. After this short session, I sat on, asked for the release down whilst onboard and then rode her back home down the lane and I don't think I imagined the lighter, more relaxed feel in the rein.
I tried the Suber Pad under the saddle and even though it looks bulky, it doesn't feel that way. In fact, it felt very good.
A short session with Remy on the yard, working on the same thing, relaxation of the jaw, followed by stretching the head and neck and taking the rein down. He's quite happy with it all and doesn't have any reservations like his mum. I just have to try to keep his attention as he's so easily distracted, but he's learning to listen and wait quietly for my signals. The swelling under his knee seems to have settled so I'll start taking him in the school again.
Another short session for Bonbon with the bridle, she's settled with it now, holds the bit nicely and relaxes her jaw when I lightly vibrate the ring.