As equestrians, we pride ourselves on the dedication and love we pour into our horses.
From early morning feedings to late-night checks, our life revolves around the barn and the well-being of our equine partners. But amid the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to forget one crucial element of this partnership: our own self-care. Let’s celebrate Self-Care Awareness together!
Just as our horses need consistent, thoughtful care to perform their best, so do we. Neglecting our own health and well-being can lead to burnout, injuries, and a diminished capacity to care for our horses. Let’s explore some essential self-care practices tailored for equestrians that will help you stay healthy, happy, and ready to ride.
Prioritize Physical Fitness
Riding is physically demanding, requiring strength, flexibility, and endurance. Incorporate a balanced fitness routine that includes:
- Strength Training: Focus on core, leg, and upper body exercises to improve your stability and control in the saddle.
- Cardiovascular Workouts: Activities like running, cycling, or swimming can enhance your stamina for long rides.
- Flexibility Exercises: Yoga, Active stretching and Passive Stretching can improve your balance and reduce the risk of injuries.
Proper Nutrition
Fueling your body with the right nutrients is crucial. If there is anything I’ve learned on my health journey is that everyone is different! One nutrition plan isn’t a cure-all for everyone. In fact, without the extensive bloodwork I had last year, I’d still be shooting in the dark trying to supplement what didn’t need supplementing and missing what did. Be your own advocate and remember not everything is solved with prescription medication. It was a very long journey for me, but I finally found a doctor that is treating my nutritional gaps to fight my internal medicine disease. There is light at the end of the tunnel and it’s not all about weight, it’s about what’s healthy for you!
Hydration
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during hot weather or after intense training sessions. THIS! Water is essential to life. We are made up of 45-75% water depending upon our age. This is something I personally have struggled with. In a world that adds sugar to everything water can be not as appealing to grab and guzzle. However, boy does it make a difference! It’s amazing how much you’ll crave water when you cut out the sodas and get in a routine. I’m guilty of being so busy that I forget to drink. Teaching back to back lessons, taking care of the barn and your kids…..and BAM!… it’s now late afternoon and you haven’t even cracked the lid on your water bottle! Prioritize yourself! You’re no good to anyone else, including your horse if you aren’t healthy. Anyone that pressures you otherwise isn’t your tribe or a worthy client.
Mental Health Maintenance
The emotional aspect of riding and horse care is often overlooked. Stress, anxiety, and burnout can affect your performance and your relationship with your horse. Implement strategies to maintain your mental health:
- Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help you stay centered and calm.
- Adequate Rest: Ensure you get enough sleep to recover and rejuvenate.
- Social Support: Connect with fellow equestrians, friends, and family for emotional support and talk! Talk about things that weigh heavy on your heart. Carrying anything heavy has never been proven valuable to one’s self.
Injury Prevention and Management
Injuries are, unfortunately, part of the equestrian world. Prevent them by:
- Wearing Proper Gear: Helmets, gloves, and appropriate footwear can make a huge difference. Added bonus, taking pride in your turnout makes you feel better and boosts your confidence. We all love the matchy matchy outfits we can plan with our horses! I myself have been known to own a saddle pad or 2…or more!
- Regular Medical Maintenance: This can be what suits you. I’m an advocate of following your gut. Whether you take a holistic or traditional approach to your health keep it up! You are worth it!
Spa
Yes spa! I said it! We literally talk about the spa days we give our ponies so why not treat ourselves! You can do this at home with some candles, a bubble bath and facemask or go to a spa. Do your nails, change your hair or go to the ocean! Pick your pleasure but we only get this life so live it! Heaven knows our horses are!
Let’s set a new bar where we must care for ourselves as well as we do our horses! Both parties will benefit from this. Never forget that your health is the most important thing you have, and this world is better with you in it making your ripple of impact. There is always someone to talk to. You are not alone, and you have a friend in Ride For Success! Let’s do great things and share our impacts. Let us know what you do for self-care!