I rode a horse last Sun who was basically the opposite of Flash (my beloved boy who is on box rest) - does not like a contact at. all. And spent the whole 45 minute lesson either shaking his head, backing up, or expecting me to ride with my reins like blooming loopy washing lines.
He wasn't happy unless my hands were practically on the buckle. My goodness though he taught me to ride with my seat... after all, if you can't touch his face, you gotta direct him somehow. Whole lesson felt like a battle. I learned how much I love and miss my FlashMan.