One of the most wonderful parts of horseback riding is being able to enjoy your time out on the trails and being in nature with your horse. However, riding out on trails can be anxiety-inducing for some riders. It could have been a previous experience that triggered this for you. Or, a simple distrust in […]
Visiting the barn and your horse should be a sanctuary. A place to escape the rest of the world and spend time with your four-legged therapist. It’s even better if you can spend time and ride with other amicable horse people. Unfortunately, it’s not unheard of for equestrians to encounter people at our barns with […]
In my previous blog, we discussed what trauma is and how it impacts our minds and bodies after a riding accident. Next our focus is on healing the trauma you experienced while riding. As equestrians, we’re trained to be brave and strong-willed. There’s no space for us to be afraid or second guessing ourselves. You […]
One, two, three, one, two, three, one… His approach was too long to make the jump. The distance wasn’t right and you were unable to correct it. You didn’t see it coming and you’re unbalanced. In a split second, you find yourself tumbling over his shoulder, hitting the ground, and seeing his front legs two […]
Welcome to your very first year college, Class of 2024! These next four years will be full of friendships, new experiences, and of course, academics. Unfortunately, the pandemic is yet again interrupting one of the most memorable times in your life. First prom, then graduation and now your freshman year. I know how badly you’ve […]
Teenage girls are constantly comparing themselves to other girls. Participating in a sport where you’re judged based upon your performance and athleticism increases the awareness of appearance. All eyes are on you when you’re competing. Comments come from all directions: peers, coaches, parents, and even the lady at the tack shop. Body image in the […]
With the recent restriction being lifted on horseback riding in New Jersey, you’re ready to get back to your favorite place again. You swing your leg over a saddle that you haven’t sat in in months. You’re met with an unfamiliar feeling in your stomach. Excitement? Nervousness? Maybe a little of both? A few months […]
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed all of our lives. It’s made life more stressful, unpredictable, and mentally draining. Like many parents, you’re working from home and your kids are learning from home. Having a child with ADHD can be immensely stressful during this time, as they may need extra guidance and redirection. You need to […]
Every day, you deal with the heartache of the memory of your child (or children), who left this Earth too soon. While this lingers day in and day out, the month of May brings an overwhelming sense of sadness. You watch as other women and families celebrate mothers. You try to feel happiness for others, […]
To New Jersey, New York and all the healthcare workers on the frontlines during this pandemic: Thank you. During a time of such distress and uncertainty, you continue to care for your patients. With limited supplies and a growing number of cases, this will put your anxiety into overdrive. Paying close attention to your mental […]