As a therapist who specializes in equestrian mental health, I frequently work with couples navigating the emotional aftermath of a horse riding injury. These injuries can leave not only the rider physically and emotionally shaken but also their spouse or partner feeling overwhelmed, afraid, and, at times, resentful. If your partner has been injured while […]
Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking at barns, tack shops, and equestrian events across New Jersey and beyond about a topic close to my heart: mental health support for riders. There are many lessons to be learned in spending time speaking with other equestrians about mental health. The eye opening […]
For many equestrians, riding isn’t a hobby—it’s a part of their identity. The connection with a horse, the community we share with others, and the thrill that comes from riding shape an individual’s sense of self. When this core aspect of identity is disrupted—whether through injury, life changes, or shifts in personal goals—it can lead […]
First and foremost, if you’ve lost a horse and you’ve found this blog, I am so sorry for your loss. Very few will understand this form of loss like a fellow equestrian understands. Losing a heart horse can be a profoundly devastating experience. The bond between a rider and their horse often transcends that of […]
We all know that “just 2 hours” at the barn can easily turn into 6. Our non-equestrian family tries to be understanding but it’s truly a balancing act sometimes. We do our best to juggle caring for our horses, spending time with our family and managing a household. While our passion for horses can be […]
If you’ve experienced a distressing or traumatic experience with horses, you know how difficult it can be to mentally and emotionally heal. I discuss this more in my blogs on Equestrian Trauma. I have also written about how equestrians can find healing following an injury. If connecting with like-minded others and practicing work on your […]
For equestrians, the winter months can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, the frigid temperatures and snow-covered pastures in northern states like New Jersey can make riding and horse care challenging. On the other hand, the sunny shores of Florida beckon with their promise of warmer weather and ideal equestrian conditions. […]
You show up to the barn, only to find your horse three-legged lame. A million scenarios run through your mind. Was he kicked in turnout? Did he slip and fall in the mud? Is it just a hoof abscess? Your brain goes into overdrive. In that moment, everything else in life goes out the window. […]
What is Equestrian Trauma? Equestrian Trauma is an umbrella term for a variety of issues equestrians may face. Indeed, equestrian trauma is not so much about the severity of the incident that occurred but rather the impact on the Equestrian’s mental health. The following events may be considered traumatic: Falling off your horse and having […]
“Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of Solitaire. It is a grand passion.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson This quote really hits home to so many. If horses have been in your life for a while, the pure sight of a horse awakens a […]
How often do you see people of color competing in equestrian sports? Why is our community so homogenous? White, slim, and wealthy. Without much diversity, it continues to hinder a wide variety of people from enjoying and partaking in this sport. If certain groups of people are excluded in equestrian sports, it limits the possible […]
The words “you are now being judged” echo over the loudspeaker and all eyes are on your rider. You’ve worked tirelessly to get them where they are today. You’re there to cheer them on no matter what happens in the arena. You’re there supporting them alongside their parents/guardians. Is the rest of the team showing […]
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 […]