3 Unexpected Tips for Calm Confide

I often tell my students (kids and adults) to imagine theres a giant black curtain around the outside of the arena and the whole world is blocked out. I gently remind them that while we are riding, our horse is giving us all of their attention and focus, and we owe that back to them. This is not the time to talk about what happened at school today or your plans for the weekend, we can do that at the tie rail before or after their ride. 

This is, of course, easier said than done. Especially this time of year, hurdling towards the holidays. I am working on compiling a resource to help you stay present and mindful at the barn even when holiday stress has you spread thin. And, you can watch the accompanying video for this post here.

In the meantime, here are 3 things you can do to help keep you present and mindful when you’re at the barn, or spending time with loved ones this holiday season. 

1. Return to your breath

Your breath is one of the only constants in life, and has a powerful ability to both up and down regulate you in a matter of seconds. I love box breathing (inhale for a count of 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4) and 4-8 breathing (inhale for 4, exhale for 8). Both of these can dramatically calm and relax me even in the most stressful moments. I also love to add my horse’s steps as my count, so an inhale for 4 would be a count of 4 steps, as an example.

2. Play 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

This is a quick game that can bring you back into the present moment quietly and easily. Give it a try right now and see how you feel. Look for 5 red things you can see (change the color if you want), 4 things you can hear, 3 things you can feel, 2 things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. And just like that, you’re fully present, here and now. This is a great activity to add to your warm up.

3. Protect your barn time

You need your barn time to help you relax and refuel, especially during the holiday season. Don’t compromise on getting in your rides, even if means arriving a little late to a holiday party. You will be more fun if you get to ride anyway!

For more support with this I hope you’ll join us in our Freeze to Flow challenge. It’s a super powerful way to build your presence and a much needed point of grounding during the holiday chaos. A great gift for both you and your horse.