How horse riding can help you on your self-care journey

When we think about taking some time for ourselves to recuperate and recharge, the last thing many of us would think about would be horse riding. However, chances are we could be missing out on a great exercise for both our body’s and our minds. 

While many of us conjure up images of hurtling around a racetrack when we think of horse riding, there are actually plenty more mindful ways to enjoy it. 

Here are four ways that horse riding can help to improve your mental and physical wellbeing. 



Stress relief 


Horse riding doesn’t need to be a fast-paced experience. Taking a slow trot around a peaceful area can be incredibly beneficial for our minds. Take a step away from your busy personal life and enjoy getting close to nature from the heights of horseback.



How Horse Riding Can Help You On Your Self-Care Journey | Get out into nature and enjoy the ride.



This releases endorphins which leaves you feeling relaxed and happy giving you that much deserved mental break. 

It’s also well documented that spending time with animals can help to bring down your stress levels, so let the calming temperament of a horse work its magic. 



Confidence 


Horse riding is a hobby that a lot of people shy away from for one reason or another. A lot of people’s concerns come from the worry of being around such a large animal. 

Whether you have a fear of horses or not, horse riding can be a scary experience, to begin with! 

However, with some regular practise and time spent with the horse, you’ll soon build a connection and level of trust like no other. 

As you continue to get used to the techniques and the animals themselves, you’ll slowly start to build your confidence which can have massive positive impacts on your wellbeing. You can take this newfound confidence into other areas of your life where you’ll undoubtedly notice a difference. 



How Horse Riding Can Help You On Your Self-Care Journey | A new hobby can boost your confidence.




Exercise 


If you’re after something a little more than just an amble around the countryside, why not take up horse riding as a sport? 

Horse riding has many physiological benefits with core strength often coming out on top. Plus, no two riding experiences are the same, so you’ll be using different muscles each time you’re out with your horse. 

Often, you won’t even know you’re giving your body a workout – which is more than can be said for the same old machines and classes at the gym! 



Responsibility 


Annoyingly, it's easy for us to get stuck in an emotional rut sometimes. 

If we have nothing to keep us going, we will likely fall into the same daily routines which can become very monotonous over time. 

If you choose to take up horse riding as a regular hobby, you might want to investigate how you go about owning a horse to more regularly practise on.

Obviously, owning a horse isn’t cheap. Luckily though, there are plenty of ways you can get around this from leasing to financing. Things like horse insurance and pet bills should be considered too before taking the plunge into the equestrian lifestyle. 

However, the responsibility of owning a horse is second to none when it comes to your mental wellbeing. The need to look after these incredible animals gives you a sense of purpose which is great if you’re struggling to muster up the enthusiasm to leave the house at times. 



How Horse Riding Can Help You On Your Self-Care Journey | Enjoy a peaceful ride.



If you’re looking to find a new hobby that’s not the standard fitness class, then horse riding will be right up your street. From the physiological and psychological benefits, owning and riding a horse can have an unparallel effect for our self-care practises.

*Collaborative post