Although horses bring joy, riding or the pressures equestrians face sometimes create riding fear and anxiety. How can fear and riding-related anxiety be managed and dealt with?
Some of the most common techniques for managing riding fear and anxiety are
- Breathing exercises
- Visualization
- Mindfulness practice
It is normal for equestrians of all levels to experience some type of riding fear and or anxiety during their career. It is not anything to be ashamed of. Continue below to read more about riding fear and anxiety.
What Causes Riding Fear and Anxiety?
Fear and anxiety when riding can come from many sources. Perhaps the most obvious is the pressure equestrians feel when they perform at competitions. The pressure can come from themselves or coaches and family members. Competition brings negative emotions because of the hours and resources spent to make it to the show.
Most equestrians experience a fall or even injury working with their horse. The potential of falling and getting hurt is another reason for riding fear and anxiety. If a rider is prone to falling or is riding soon after a fall or injury, they fear a similar situation happening again. These are both difficult things to experience that can shake confidence for a long time.
Fear of failure is also common among equestrians. We never want to do poorly at something and risk hurting our horses. This sport is a high-risk one, and there are a variety of ways for things to go awry.
A study found that the proportion of fear and anxiety riders experience differs. For example, competitive equestrians with more experience generally had less fear and anxiety than inexperienced equestrians.
Techniques to Manage and Overcome Negative Emotions In The Saddle
Being afraid and anxious are negative states. When we experience these negative emotions, they can reach our horses and make them spook or act out. Here are some techniques you can use to help you feel more confident in the saddle and have a better ride.
Breathing exercises like the 4-7-8 technique take the mind off what you feel and allow you to refocus. Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds. Repeat it until you feel centered and calm.
Visualization is another way to take the mind off of riding fear and anxiety. Many successful riders visualize their success in the arena before going out to compete. Find a quiet place to sit and close your eyes. Then, picture your jump round, dressage test, or exercise you are working on in a lesson. Concentrate and feel everything, from your horse’s movement under you to the roar of the crowd. Be intentional and make sure you only focus on positive emotions to block out any negativity.
Mindfulness involves being fully present when with the horse. When riding, take the time to do periodic body checks with yourself, noticing where each part of your body is and removing tension from any areas. Checking in with yourself will help you feel more relaxed.
Of course, our horses get afraid and anxious too! BioPro Armour is the best choice to help your horse stay calm and collected through all of your adventures. Potent thymic proteins provide a relaxing effect while boosting the immune system to keep your horse in tip-top shape. Try it today by visiting the link above!