When you think about it, how much of your time do you spend focusing on your horse’s state of mind, their movement or their behaviour, how much of your time do you actually think about your own state of mind? Check out the follow tips for pre-riding mindfulness below.
Most of us work full time to support our horse companions. When we get to our horses in the morning, we are generally in a rush to get them sorted and start the busy day ahead and then by the time we get back to our horses after work we are generally full of the days stresses and things we need to do the following day. Our horses are awesome at being perceptive to us, they can tune into our mental, emotional and physical state – which at the end of the day isn’t always the best when we have brought out ‘baggage’ to the yard. Our stresses can often rub off onto our horses, which can often have an affect of our interactions with them.
When we become more aware of our mental and emotional state, we are able to think about how we interact with our horses, which in turn can result in a more relaxed / attuned / connected ride. It only takes a few moments to get your thoughts in order and de-stress, check out the following tips on becoming more mindful before your next session.
First
Don’t jump straight into your yard to do list and what you want to achieve in with your horse that evening – don’t build on top of the days stresses! Take a breath and refocus yourself from the day. Leave work or home worries behind you (easier said that done sometimes). If I am having a bad day, I lie down in the field, stable or sofa, which helps to re-centre my mind and relax my body.
Second
At the end of your work day, on your way to the yard or when you arrive at your horses. Take a few minutes to refocus your mind – let go of the days stresses and to do lists. Then you can start thinking about what you might want to achieve with your horse, with a fresh ‘free’ mind.
Third
Don’t rush! How many times do you find yourself rushing to get to the yard, to get your horse in, to tack up etc etc… You will find that when you have a more relaxed approach to your horse, you will tend to find a more connected, relaxed and responsive partner. Leave your emotional baggage at home or at the office. Treasure your time with your horse, do NOT bring your baggage along for the ride.
Forth
If you are riding and are in the saddle, spend a few minutes focusing on your breathing and seat position. (If you don’t feel it is safe to do this, then you probably shouldn’t be sat on your horse). If you don’t feel relaxed, then maybe hop off and have a little walk around to relax yourself- whatever fits you.
Fifth
Don’t forget to breathe! Take a deep breaths into your belly (not the chest). With this type of breathing you should feel your body elongate relax through your shoulders and across your collarbone. Focus on your breath work at the beginning of your ride.
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