Home

how-very-horsey-home-banner-1
Building confidence and...
how-very-horsey-home-banner-1
empowering riders!
previous arrow
next arrow

If you feel that you’ve lost your love of riding because of nerves or know that your mindset is getting in the way of your success in the saddle, you’re in the right place!

How Very Horsey is a confidence and mindset consultancy for riders who need to fall back in love with their beloved sport.

Founded by Daisy Smith, How Very Horsey helps riders of all levels unlock their true potential, boost their confidence and transform their partnership with their horse. Inspired by a personal journey from riding high at the best shows in the country to a serious crisis of confidence and back again, How Very Horsey will help you overcome fear and anxiety and combat pre-competition nerves.

Arena eventing
Daisy is a breath of fresh air. I thought I was beyond help and now I am riding with a smile on my face. My non-horsey partner even noticed the difference in me. I love riding again.

My Coaching Services

Conquering a mountain starts with a single step, so let’s take that step together! I offer both 1:1 coaching, group coaching and a limited number of bespoke mentoring packages, so you can pick the style of learning that you’re most comfortable with.

1:1 Coaching

1:1 sessions take place on the Phone, Zoom or via video chat, and can focus on confidence, mindset, goal setting or even plotting your competition schedule for the season ahead. Whether you are looking for a one-off session or think ongoing support would help – just click below to learn more.

Group Coaching

There are two group coaching programmes to choose from – an 8-week online rider confidence course or mindset muck out sessions. My coaching takes place online with weekly Zoom calls and you’re supported in between calls with worksheets and WhatsApp groups. Learn more and find out when my next courses kick off using the link below.

Daisy is fantastic at explaining what to do, in way that's very easy to understand and easy put in place. It has been incredibly useful with lots of great tips. It has already helped me so much and with continued practice (and having Daisy on my side) will transform how I prepare with a positive mindset!!

About me

Hi there, I’m Daisy and I founded How Very Horsey because I have first-hand experience of what it’s like to have fears and anxieties come between me and the love I have for horses. In 2005, I was quite literally riding high, winning the BSPS Rider of the Year for the second time and qualifying two horses for prestigious events like HOYS and Royal International. But over the following ten years, I experienced a profound crisis of confidence that left me questioning my love for riding. At one point, I even packed away my riding kit because I was so convinced the dream was over. (Admittedly, to the garage and not to the bin!)

I clawed my way back using every tool I could get my hands on; from aromatherapy and psychotherapy to CBT to EFT, singing lessons and fitness training. As a qualified Sports Psychologist and Mental Health First Aider, with a fairly unique story with horses and with experience in theatre and performance coaching, I believe I have unique skills and experience to guide you towards truly loving every moment in the saddle.

LVS Jackpot working hunter
Daisy is fantastic at explaining what to do, in way that's very easy to understand and easy put in place. It has been incredibly useful with lots of great tips. It has already helped me so much and with continued practice (and having Daisy on my side) will transform how I prepare with a positive mindset!!

How Very Horsey Blog

My blog is a goldmine of information on rider confidence, overcoming competition nerves and setting goals, as well as broader training and horse care content and a few industry interviews too. It’s a great way to learn a little more and keep up to date with my latest news. If you like what you see, remember I’m available for equestrian press enquiries, podcast opportunities and guest speaking slots.

Daisy Smith riding LVS Jackpot

Rider Psychology

running up at Horse of the Year Show

Showing

Lifestyle

Happy rider and horse

Horse Training

Standing inhand showing horse

Horse Welfare

horse in training

The Mentor Interviews