How EFT can rescue you from a horse riding confidence crisis (without the need for bubble wrap
Let’s set the scene, you’re at the yard, staring at your horse, who’s munching hay like the picture of innocence. But in your head? It’s chaos. Memories of that fall, the spook, or the inexplicable what ifs are playing on repeat. Suddenly, your 15 hand best friend looks more like a fire-breathing dragon, and the thought of getting back in the saddle feels about as appealing as tight white breeches after a three-course meal.
Sound familiar? ands no you’re not alone. And this is where EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) comes in to save the day (and your riding confidence).
So the Spiral of “What Ifs”
It starts innocently enough: What if he spooks again? What if I fall off? what if i break my ribs again or something else as well? What if everyone sees me fall off? Before you know it, you’re wondering if it’s socially acceptable to lead your horse around on foot… forever.
This is exactly where EFT can help. By gently tapping on specific energy points on your body. Yes I know, it sounds odd stay with me, EFT helps to calm the nervous system and rewire those panic-inducing thought patterns.
The Magic of Tapping
Here’s how it works:
• Step 1: Acknowledge the problem (“I feel like a disaster waiting to happen on this horse.”).
• Step 2: Tap on acupressure points while repeating affirmations that gently shift your mindset (“Even though I’m nervous, I can handle this.”).
• Step 3: Start feeling less like a jelly-legged amateur and more like Charlotte Dujardin on a good day.
Seriously, it’s like your brain gets a factory reset. Those “what ifs” lose their grip, and you’re left with a calm, collected version of yourself who remembers that, oh yeah, you actually love riding!
EFT vs. “Just Get Back On” Advice
Let’s be honest there’s always that one person who tells you to “just get back on” as if that’s the magic cure for fear. While their intentions are lovely, EFT goes a step further. It doesn’t just push you back in the saddle; it clears the fear, anxiety, and mental baggage that’s keeping you stuck on the ground in the first place.
Tackling Competition Nerves
And let’s not forget competition day where your hands are sweating, your horse senses your tension (and of course, reacts dramatically), and you’re convinced everyone’s watching your every move. EFT can help calm those nerves, so you can ride with focus and confidence, instead of worrying about becoming a meme.
EFT: The Unsung Hero of Horse Riding
Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fall, pre-competition jitters, or just a general crisis of confidence, EFT can work wonders. It’s quick, simple, and doesn’t involve packing yourself in bubble wrap or giving up riding entirely.
So, next time your brain convinces you that mounting your horse is akin to climbing Everest, give tapping a try. Your horse will thank you (because, honestly, they’ve already moved on from the spook you can’t stop thinking about).
Want to know more or give it a go? Get in touch—I promise you won’t even need to wear the bubble wrap.