The Hidden Magic Of The Animal-Human Relationship | James French | TEDxBologna

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of the limbic system, mindfulness and animal communication. Techniques discussed in this talk lack scientific support. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/t...
In the talk, James shares the insights they have gained over the last 20 years of assisting animals and people with mindfulness. He uncovers the hidden magic of the animal-human connection.
The talk is divided into three areas of interest:
1. Building Trust and Connection
2. Changing Behavior
3. Creating a State of True Cooperation
The stories shared reflect a remarkable interpretation of how we can all learn a great deal about our own trust, behaviour, and cooperation by understanding the key ingredients that constitute the magic of helping animals!
"James and Shelley are the pioneers of the Trust Technique, a method of mindfulness between animals and people that establishes a deep connection and promotes healing for both.
This innovative approach carries a profound message of hope and understanding, benefiting thousands of individuals and their animals worldwide.
James and Shelley have made this unique gift accessible for anyone caring for animals through their online courses.
Additionally, they support a purposeful community of Trust Technique Practitioners, spanning over 30 different countries.
Their mission is to promote a compassionate and considerate way of building trust and connection, ultimately creating a better world for both animals and people." This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@chioschick1]

Every time I see these videos and listen to James, it makes my heart sing! And the best thing about it - James and Shelley have found a way to teach their approach and made it possible for people like me to live our dreams by not only applying it with our own animals, but even spreading it with others 🥰

[@vaenskapelsen]

Absolutely incredible. Being a long time meditator as well as a clinical psychologist, I have to say that his approach works both on a practical, theoretical and intuitive level. This should be in schools and tought for human to human interaction as well.

[@anjamaria8414]

This is exactly what I think! And imagine how schools could change to a better place for our children! And foarming a new generation, a better future for all of us.

[@vaenskapelsen]

@@anjamaria8414 Absolutely!

[@josefserf1926]

Not if children are seen as mere fodder to pay taxes for the elites. Don't expect anything from schools.

[@victorias6257]

How blessed are we for James and Shelley sharing this wisdom with us. I use it everyday. I’ve helped so many horses and cows . In all my years studying how to help horses this is THE BEST and most productive progressive technique I’ve learnt. I want the world to know about it. James is a true Angel of our times and is creating the change our animals and this planet so desperately needs 🙏 My gratitude is forever 🐴🕊️

[@katarinabjurstedt4211]

Hi Victoria, I'm very interested to learn more about your work with animals. I'm hoping to learn the Trust Technique and to work in this area myself. It would be so helpful to speak to someone who has been on this path for some time. Would you be willing to give me 20 minutes of your time in a call (audio or video) to share your experience? Thank you very much 🙏 Katarina

[@victorias6257]

@@katarinabjurstedt4211 hey kind soul my best advice is to learn this technique soon the peace stays within you and you radiate peace everywhere. I am simply a feeling human so thinking has little place in healing with me. It’s all just feeling. Best way to be good at feeling is too SLOW RIGHT DOWN . Practical stuff is useful but is not much use without feeling. I’m happy to answer any questions 🙏

[@clawrence6190]

James is amazing. I first met him around 15 years ago, and he is the real deal. He has taught me so much, helped my own pony so much some years ago, and his methods do really work. No question.

[@MADKAMALI]

I hope you feel my deep gratitude. Thank you for sharing this with the world! For me it’s not only about connecting with animals, it’s about peace, starts within and shines out to all other beings, THE MAGIC OF PRESENCE!

[@juliewallace6673]

I use the Trust Technique with all my animals and it creates an amazing connection! Once your animal realizes you are delivering this peace and calm, they seek it from you. Huge gratitude to James and Shelley for developing this program and making it accessible to learn. ❤

[@stratplus]

Hi Julie, I've watched the introduction videos on the Trust website, but I wasn't able to feel that "present moment". In your opinion as a user, is the whole system based on that, so if you are not able to get in that state, it would be useless to do the course?

[@gailadams4943]

It takes time to learn how to move into the present moment. Be patient with yourself ❤️

[@stratplus]

@@gailadams4943 Thank you for your comment. I'll keep trying, but if I don't "get it" it will probably make no sense to do the course, right?

[@tmalban]

@@stratplus The course is worth it. James teaches you solid techniques to get into the present moment. It takes daily practice but you can do it. Best money I ever spent.

[@user-czeller]

@@stratplus do not be too quick to judge yourself. start with the free videos. it is not about already knowing how it works, follow the exercises, and stay with it. learning to trust yourself will allow you to open to new awareness of your consciousness. one moment at a time, no pressure, no competition to anyone else. they are fantastic to support your journey

[@natalizarth2227]

I could hear James for hours, everyday! It is so wonderful! Great job as always!

[@barbgreene8497]

Thank you James, Shelly and all those that practise and teach/share the Trust Technique. You are truly a blessing to mankind and to the animal kingdom. ❤️

[@annamariadinice3978]

James and Shelley changed the way I approach life for the better, they are incredible souls and give a huge sense to things! Working with them was the most magical experience of my life, which I will never forget.

[@Dave-Anderson]

This is absolutely incredible. The work that James does is very, very unique and special - and SO needed. Thank you, James!!

[@andreacook6000]

Best Ted Talk ever made.Thank you James and Shelly.

[@user-zv1hb7el2u]

The Trust Technique has completely changed my life and how I interact with animals. As a traditional dog trainer, I felt something was missing. This is the piece - the authenticity - the connection and the cooperation. I learned that the sky is the limit with what we can do with animals andthey with us by using mindfulness. The healing I have witnessed has been a treat.

[@mariwadsworth3436]

I love watching James and Shelly. Their lessons and videos are an endless source of inspiration in navigating life with animals and people. I love when they say "slower is faster" in using the Trust Technique. It is a mantra I live by in all of my interactions with difficult emotions, my own and others'. There is no greater joy than seeing my own calm state transform another being's experience of life from fearful to peaceful to playful. What a gift.

[@lumios_experience]

My life has completly changed since I discovered his method. Now I'm a practitioner of Trust Technique in France and I discover myself and animals in so many news ways everyday. I feel my emotionnal intelligence becoming stronger, my intuitive connection to animals clearer, more simple. On top of this I found out who I really am and I'm connected now on a deeper level to my own soul. I am full of gratitude for that trigger in my journey with animals. I recommend you to live once in your life present moment that way and I wish you to find your own way to be with animals thanks to it. With acceptance, allowing yourself to be authentic with your dark and light sides. Decide it's OK to make mistakes and be a learner, become true to yourself. Animals will show you the way to reconnect to the world around you peacefully, as much as you will show them. Thank you again James. I love my job, Trust Technique was the missing peace to enlight my practice and life.

[@WarriorNana4Chg]

Thank you to everyone who made positive suggestions and gave encouragement. 😊 Some of us who needed to hear it really appreciate it❣️

[@brianstaugust]

I subscribed to The Trust Technique a number of years ago and was so positively impacted that I bought the full course for my daughter and granddaughter in California. There is something about James' being that translates so well for me in regard to love, non-judgemental mindsets and my appreciation for the Present Moment. His teaching is somewhat aligned with some of our most innovative thinkers such Eckhart Tolle, Dan Millman and others. Learning the Trust Technique has helped me to be a better meditator, a better friend to animals and humans, and hopefully a more peaceful and loving human in our shared Universe. Thank you James French... you made a great difference in my life as well as many animals.

[@josefserf1926]

Excellent presentation. One of the very few Tedx Talks actually worth watching.

[@kevin.k.o.]

I have been following James for some years. He is putting all the Buddhist teachings in plain sight. I find his work wonderful not only because he helps many beings but also shows each time how we make a difference by just being, in a way my mind cannot refute.

[@susanneneubauer7019]

❤❤❤❤ Wonderful presentation, may as many as possible see this TED talk and get a glimpse of the true nature and wisdom of animals.

[@annepilgrim6865]

Beautiful. Thank you, James!

[@beatrizmorenoalvarez]

Just beautiful!!! Thank you, James and Shelley, in the name of so many animals and people.

[@cristinatomescu7591]

You are such a blessing to this world! You are really amazing, James! Thank you for your wisdom and for your teachings!

[@TeresaPacker-pm5sn]

Beautiful Person And Brilliant Technique ❤️

[@libbywalling7613]

James is someone who has restored my faith in humanity. Thank you

[@susanaarroway1209]

How AMAZING to see and hear you here! Bless you, James and Shelley 🌞🧡🌞

[@MyYellow2012]

I am always fascinated by James French. All his video courses are so helpful even for those who already have a deep relationship with their pet.

[@gabrielablanco1638]

Thank you James and Shelly for all the wisdom you share. The ability to connect through peace is what we all need. A true inspiration ❤️

[@denlyttle5473]

I am so moved. Thank you ❤💛💚

[@wellnone9367]

James, every time I see your work, I feel such joy, and relief; relief that SOMEone is making their life's work about understanding animals. I just love the wisdom of animals, and the love one finds in a relationship with them. Thank you for helping us humans to further understand this.

[@staceylandfield5002]

I have so many incredible stories since I took James's course. People dont believe me.

[@billyginger1984]

Thank you James, that was magnificent. My heart is touched.

[@birgitepurg7699]

Thanks to James and Shelly, to learn the present moment was wonderful and the animals around me are grateful. You are doing such a wonderful job

[@angelabruce9754]

Thank you James for all that you are.

[@erin3292]

This Guy is a Gift 🙏

[@emmaboddy3439]

well done James! I have done your training courses, beautiful work

[@sabrinamuller-wusthoff8577]

Thank you so much James and Shelley! I am so happy to be part of this ❤

[@lidijastankov8644]

I coul'd listen to this man for 24h non-stop every day.

[@NikiFoxE]

I have used your wisdom while volunteering for six months in an animal shelter on the island of Grenada. I combined your thinking with past learning about heart coherence. Thank you so much.

[@oliviaroy__]

I love you James and Shelley, thank you SO much for the Peace you spread everywhere you go!

[@ChristineLi]

I have done is courses and it is life changing in every imaginable way. A beautiful soul❤

[@deborahfizer4734]

What a fantastic way to promote the Trust Technique. Shelley and you deserve accolades. The talk was great so as the lovely animals. Thank you for all you do.

[@thissunchild]

I took the first course of The Trust Technique. Mind blowing 😮❤

[@avisburnett4678]

Brilliant! James and Shelley have created a way of being that could potentially change the world. It has clearly changed the lives of thousands of animals and people. I love the reminder that there is magic in this world ~ it's attainable through the simple steps that James has outlined. I highly recommend exploring the Trust Technique further for more inspiration, instruction, and modeling of how relationships can be. Thank you, James and Shelley for all that you bring to this planet and every being on it!

[@sarahcross8377]

I am learning the Trust Technique with James and Shelley. It has changed my life and my relationship with my mare. Fabulous!

[@shaash5236]

Love this guy. He’s an amazing person.

[@johanneeriksen1339]

Thank you James and Shelley for all you do for animals and humans. I love your work, it is very helpful❤

[@AnkeHerrmann]

The Trust Technique has been life-changing for my dogs and me. Too many examples to list here but one of my dogs was terrified of thunderstorms and fireworks. Now he doesn't even get up from the couch ..

[@tunilowe-davies4292]

I need to do this for my dog. She’s petrified of fireworks. How many times a day did you do present moment on your dogs to get this result??

[@martinsaint9999]

I have bought Mr. French's introduction video course, was amazed how the animals reacted and can it fully recommend. His trust techniques are very impressive!

[@user-kk7iv3lz6q]

Crying listening to this man. How inspiring and truly beautiful . I need to learn more

[@Tascountrygirl]

Thank you James and Shelley for distributing this beautiful TED talk and including me in Australia. I loved the Trust Technique (online) when I was fortunate to study the Basic Course a few years ago. Of course, for many including me it will be excellent timing and I received it just after meditating (mindfulness). I have been adopting and feeding abandoned domestic ducks and chickens where they were abandoned. I can see how I need to remember the Trust Technique when talking with people and animals. Bless you both. I do hope that more and more people become open to the Trust Technique.

[@ASimplyFabLife]

Absolutely stunning! Makes me cry every time I watch James with these magnificent beings. Thanks to both of you for the work you do x

[@rosaelunabruun6255]

That was so beautiful - I'm crying 😭😭❤❤

[@LoriMichaud]

Thank you James! This was wonderful and an excellent reminder to live for this magical connection that can and should exist with our animals

[@now-networkofwomen4084]

I visited this wonderful centre in 2016, and was amazed at the kindness and totally relaxed atmosphere within this area. James French is a genuine and warm hearted human being with the Trust Technique helping the world for both animals and people.

[@debbiefox8675]

what a wonderful man, we are indeed blessed and the animals even more. thank you for what you do James, and Shelley thank you

[@olgafutre5057]

Absolutely amazing, as always! @TrustTechniqueJamesFrench you are a special human being, thank you very much for your unique, compassionate and loving way to connect with the animals. And how I resonate with you when you say that you have found the animal-human connection from human-human disconnection!!! God bless you and your amazing work 🙏🙏

[@m.g.s.morgan316]

Just loved this talk! In such a short time James managed to capture the essence and magic of the human-animal connection in a way that lifts the heart. James and Shelley‘s work encourages to go the mindful and peaceful way - mutual trust is such an essential foundation of any harmonious relationship! And James and Shelley live and demonstrate their talk - you can see that in this video and so many of the comments below. This is what our world needs more of. Thank you so much for sharing this impactful message in your enthusiastic yet humble way, James :).

[@von-hunden-lernen]

Wonderful! Thank you Shelly and James, I have been practising your technique since 2020 with my own dogs and other animals and I learned to listen 'without hearing'. A life changing gift I am unbelievably thankful for!

[@yoavhart-dw2ih]

Dearest James, I felt shivers going down my spine just watching how you connect with animals. This is not the first film I have seen with you doing this, but is always amazes me again. I was touched by your sharing and the reality of another kind of connection, not only with animals but with human beings as well. I truly believe that the trust technique can change our world. Thank you note- the picture is of my husband, my name is Adina Hart❤❤

[@susannebischoff861]

Thank you so much James. I'm doing this for about two years with our dog Bruno. And I'm very grateful for all the miracles and changes we both experience through presence, awareness, patience and respect. It is becoming a way of living for me. Thank you so much........

[@user-ob7km2yx6u]

Wonderful, James and Shells! This magic is the reality! Time and time again as soon as we become mindful around each other and our animals the magic happens! For 9 months my life has been replete by a constant stream of magical connections with animals since I discovered your work, and re-discovered this human wisdom we all inherently have to consciously create deeper connections with animals. "Rather than change the world, change how we feel about the world, and our world will change." (And of course there's a ton of science to back the existence and power of connection, communication, and healing between animals and humans - dear, oh dear TED.)

[@kirstyhayhoe631]

This technique is amazing!

[@stephaniekloepfer6232]

I have been slowly working and reworking through the Trust Technique for several years. James is such an inspiration. I am constantly moved by the footage of his work in the course. I have to be patient with myself because I have yet to experience the same level of results with my own animals. But our bonds have all deepened even so. I need to build my own present moment more and once I can do that I know the magic will really happen. Thank you for what you do James and Shelley and for sharing your gifts with the world. I hope to attend a clinic and meet you in person one day.

[@bethberry320]

I love James and Shells and what you’re doing in the world!

[@deannaburkett]

I am in a Trust Technique course, and I'm working with my puppy Dori I've been amazed at the change in our relationship...it does feel like magic...and love...thank you, James and Shelley...

[@casanova6933]

wonderful! I have been working with my animals with the Trust Technique for over two years now and yes, it is magical! My whole life is touched and inspired by it. Thank you James and Shelley ❤

[@anitastark1652]

I have been studying The Trust Technique Course for a year. This process works. I have 2 horses and 2 dogs. Anyone who lives with animals, big, small, tame, wild can benefit from this technique. Deep gratitude!

[@nicwoodmindbodycoach7465]

Your work touches me so deeply i seem to cry pretty much everytime i watch you guys in action!!! I invested in the Trust Technique, it is a life changing course, there is no where it does not apply. So ever deeply truly grateful 🙏

[@nicolafarnhill2184]

Brilliant example and talk James. So love this work and am looking forward to becoming a practitioner very soon. ❤

[@michaelpuck7897]

Awesome TEDx talk. It is due time that we change our interaction and relationship with animals.

[@inblock1]

Incredibly beautiful and important work, James French! ALL beings on this earth do want love and connection. We are all ONE. Let’s change our feelings, and our behaviour to all non-human beings. Let them be free to live their lives. Do not eat, exploit or cause them any harm. Let’s make a new compassionate world for all, for human and non-human Beings. Thank you for your inspirational work, James French. Racine and Ivor.

[@viaggioemozionale1448]

Congratulations James and thank you for what you do to improve relationships between humans and animals. Animals are masters of awareness and mental presence, they teach us to stay in the present. If possible, I would like to have the written text of your speech for translation from English into Italian. Best regards.

[@teamginger6359]

I currently taking the training. It has been life changing. It has helped me & my animals beyond what I ever thought possible.

[@tinyfacemcgee9211]

I love your course! It works on people too, especially if the have anxiety or ADHD

[@tunilowe-davies4292]

Do you do present moment in the same way to people too? I have a boy with anxiety

[@mariandavies9487]

Bravo! I am so very glad your message is gaining more and more coverage. A lovely presentation - magic.

[@kinzelurban]

What a truly inspirational talk. For me it is a lesson to all humankind.. the world needs more compassion trust respect peace and patience between every living being ❤️thankyou!

[@jacquideacon9771]

That was awesome James! I’m so deeply grateful for all that you are teaching me through your course. My connection to my horse gets deeper and deeper. I feel like we talk without words now and he is loving it. 💕

[@judithtyrer6491]

There truly is no other way to be, huge gratitude to James and Shelley for sharing this wonderful technique with us, developing the courses so we can help others truly feel the magic of trust and connection ❤️

[@eqipona]

What a wonderful talk... so inspiring, touching and humbling. I feel so blessed to have crossed the path of James and Shelley who share their life passion with such conviction, peaceful force and generosity towards potentially every beings on this earth. My deepest gratitude for all those incredible teachings which are only the beginning of a long journey...

[@leehardman5170]

So love James and Shelley ..James has made life better for so many animals and humans ..this short video is such an amazing reminder..change your mind and your world will change..❤❤

[@Cecilitsa]

I love the Trust technique!!! And James and his wife are just marvelous human beings. Their work is precious.

[@kmwrites7456]

You are a saint. I am presently taking your Trust Technique course and find it so inspiring.

[@keeponshiningbrightly]

As a student of James I can't watch enough of him. Tears rolling down my face as I feel the heart connection in this Tedx Talk; his course is powerful and priceless, I highly recommend it/them. He does offer a free introductory course - please try it, it just may transform your and your animal's life.

[@marlymarmala91]

I totally agree. I did the intro course and then bought the full course. It is a lit and is fantastic!!

[@keeponshiningbrightly]

@@marlymarmala91 what do you mean by 'lit' please?

[@kmwrites7456]

@@marlymarmala91 I have done this also. Wish you great connections with your animals and people!

[@jeremytaylor3546]

Congratulations for the Ted talk.Long overdue. I hope that your message becomes incorporated into mainstream dog behaviour soon. The science-based approach to behaviour problems misses out so much.

[@DaVinciAudio]

Really great James, thanks for showing us 🤩

[@margaretburckard6684]

I loved seeing this! Happy tears at times.

[@marieagill]

This is truly revolutionary. It absolutely works! It has given me hope for mankind and the world!

[@claudiavandort3422]

So beautifull. This helpt my dogs very good❤

[@user-pu1lu7op8x]

What a great review of the incredible Trust technique that James French brought to the world.

[@marilyno8616]

SENSATIONAL ! ! ! Had me teary the whole way through !!! THANK YOU TRUST TECHNIQUE, I AM REALLY UNDERSTANDING THIS NOW FURTHER (after having viewed your beginning videos on your site. SO INSPIRING & EVEN HEALING OF ITSELF !!!

[@ginasolomko417]

The work James and Shelley do is so inspiring. Everyone who has a relationship with an animal would reap such benefits from knowing the technique.

[@user-pv8ph6pw1s]

Thank you james and shelley for changing the lives of so many animals and humans!!!You were the missing link that i found 3 years ago and my relationship with my horses in particular is just truly amazing now.Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the work you do.❤

[@roberthynesdogtraining]

Beautiful, and once people understand all this - you will never need to train your dog again. When an animal finds peace in your presence, they will come to trust you. Thank you James French. Give peace a chance, John Lennon. We have 2 ears and one mouth. Listen more than talk. And if people want to back up what James is saying - then I suggest you listen to Dr. Gregory Berns.

[@zandicoot]

Wonderful! So proud of you both xxx💌

[@robinasilva8956]

Brilliant and so needed in all relationships - especially in our interactions with our all animal brothers and sisters and all of the natural world

[@teastwood9592]

You are a delight to watch, very very inspiring

[@2Elkhounds]

this was wonderful to watch and see! Would love to see more of his method and create that energy he exudes with his patient manner.

[@derbydrifter]

Absolutely inspiring! So many life lessons learned here.

[@shiftyhenry]

die Methode funktioniert - eigene Erfahrung. Danke James!

[@lillycatcerisedolls268]

You are such a beautiful soul, thank you for all you are doing for Animals and humans