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If you are new to the newsletter about 9 months ago I decided to set myself a big goal and go on a long ride on my horse.
121 kms along the rail trail from Tallarook to Mansfield over 6 days.
The main reason being is that I wanted to rebuild my own confidence and my horses confidence after falling off my horse about 5 years ago.
We had been doing ok but I still felt a level of anxiety and fear every time I got in the saddle and I ride a lot!
I knew that time in the saddle would build trust and companionship that would get us to the next level of our journey. It would push me out of my comfort zone - big time! But I also chose to surround myself with experienced people around me.
There were many things to consider in prepping for the ride - one of the key ones being my horses health and my own.
I did a lot of training both on the horse and off the horse.
Here is a list of some of things that I did in preparation.
- Rode 4 - 5 times every week leading up. (6 months out)
- Chilly went on horse walker - 5 days per week (about 6 weeks prior).
- Weekly lessons with horse coach
- I took her out to about 5 events or clinics in different places leading up.
- I lost 8 kilos in weight to be fitter myself (and lighter for her)
- Regular massages for me and Chilly.
And the most important when the going got tough and I doubted whether I could do it - I leaned in and said 'Yes'. (Well, I rang my husband and said I think I have taken on too much and he said well you have 6 weeks to figure it out!)
I also prepared mentally and knew the first day or two were going to be hard whilst we got used to the other people we were riding with.
But I knew once I got to about day 3 that we would be a lot more relaxed.
The greatest thing about the ride was the ability to switch off from the everyday and enjoy the beautiful scenery, the company and just being on my horse for a long time.
Was it hard?
Of course, but was it rewardable in so many ways.
One of the things that was so surprising was switching off and with that - being so present. Just the joy of doing something for myself as well. Being so relaxed and chilled and happy.
I am now back in town and rode my horse yesterday and guess what?
We are different and we are better for the experience! My level of anxiety has reduced dramatically. I think when you put yourself on a 600 kilo animal and ask it to do things you want to be aware but we feel different - which was the goal.
My action item for this week is:
Can you make sometime this week or this week to do something you love and switch off - to switch back on again?
Whenever you are ready, check out my Stan store with lots of resources you can use to help in your career. My Stan Store
If you are a bit stuck and want some advise then you have come to the right place.
Cheers Sam xx
PS. Me and Chilly girl relaxing on the trail!
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