The bosal is a bitless bridle that has its origins with Native Americans. The bosal is not a strap but a type of ring in the shape of a teardrop around the horse's nose, with the tip of the teardrop pointing downward. The reins (mecate) are attached at the bottom. The system is based on relaxed reins; you move the teardrop to the left or right with relaxed reins to steer the horse.