I often hear riders say, “I’ve tried everything, and nothing works.” It’s a tough place to get to and I am always grateful that these riders are sharing this and aren’t sitting in that feeling alone. The great thing about this sentiment is that it is born from frustration combined with a genuine desire to […]
I fell off and didn’t “Just Get Back On” and this is why…
As much as we try and minimise risks, falling off a horse is something that every rider will likely experience, but what happens next is crucial. The age-old advice to “just get back on” can sometimes do more harm than good. In this blog, I’ll explain why it’s important to pause, assess, and understand both […]
A bit about Barney….
The delightful Barney came into our lives a year ago. We had discussed the idea of getting a young horse but nothing seemed to fit. One message from Simon Charlesworth and something felt different. He was only 3 so I couldn’t see him ‘do’ much but I put a pole out in the school and […]
Moving stables with your horse – managing anxiety and finding stability
Moving stables can be an overwhelming experience, both for the owners and the horses themselves. Horses thrive on routine and familiarity almost as much as we do! I moved stables recently and was surprised by the impact it had so wanted to share some tips and advice with you to make the transition easier. Your […]
Are moments of brilliance enough?
This horse has definitely been sent to challenge me! The last few weeks have been full of some quite drastic thoughts about Jack and this week, it all came to a head. It is Horse of the Year Show week (we are not there), my aunt shared a video of Pie and I on a […]
What I will be saying as I go in to the ring this year: mindset change
With the new year in full swing and a new season approaching, I am excited to be starting the year in such a better frame of mind to last year. I feel stronger and ready to take on whatever challenges 2020 will bring. That moment before the clock strikes midnight is always so significant to […]
Jack is perfect but….
Firstly, Jack is perfect. I will not allow anyone to say anything to the contrary. Secondly, we have a lot of work to do! I love this time of year. The busy summer season is over and it is time to step back and address some, shall we call them ‘areas of perfection improvement’? This […]
Doing the best we can – Hickstead week
Yesterday, I had a bit of meltdown. I’ll admit, there were tears. Once I had calmed, had some chocolate (fixes all things!) and regrouped, I had to say to myself – you are doing the best you can. Anyone else have to give themselves little pep talks? A week ago, we moved Jack to a […]
Biomechanics Day @ Croft Equestrian Centre
Some days you ride and finish physically exhausted, on this training day, I finished mentally exhausted. British Dressage Central Region organised a training day at Croft Equestrian Center, near Reading with The Balanced Rider and Centaur Biomechanics and I was delighted to take Jack along. My aunt had attended a Centaur Biomechanics lesson previously so […]
Caring vs Spoiling
We have the vet, physiotherapist, dentist, farrier, feed supplier, saddle fitter, rug company, additive provider, psychic….. well, maybe that’s a step too far but where is the line between caring and spoiling? I have always tried to give my horses the best possible lives and will always do that. However, None of us have an […]