Conquering my fears...

[XxFudgexX]

After I was bolted with a few months ago now I have totally lost my nerve to ride, I think about riding and I cant wait to ride but when it comes to it im just a nervous wreck, it was getting to the point that I thought I wouldn't ride again.

Hayley (zm) and misty are now helping me get over my fears, the first time I got on misty I thought I was going to have a panic attack my heart was going crazy and I was as stiff as a board so got off
then kicked myself for been so stupid and had another go this time was more relaxed and walked round a couple of times before getting off.
I went back to Hayleys on Sat and this time mannaged a pathetic trot but at least I did trot my postion was terrible I could feel that I was all wrong.

I just need to get it out of my head that every little spook, jump or forward movement does not mean I am going to be bolted out of control with.

So a big thank you to Hayley and Misty for helping me out, and any tips on re gainiing confidence will be gratefully received.

[Zeitgeist Mom]

I think you did great on Saturday. I know you said you felt nervous, but you didn't look it. And your position is lovely! I know we're a bit far from you, but we love having you and you are so welcome to come and ride as often as you like. It does Misty good too. You've seen how much more settled she is now, you'd be lucky to get her to canter, let alone bomb off with you. And even if she did, she can't go far. I think the way you've been doing things is great, and if you just keep it up, you'll soon be back up to speed. It wasn't very long ago I was shaking like a leaf getting on, but now I'm absolutely fine. I think in a way it's harder when you have a bad experience with a 'new' horse, as in both our cases. You don't know what it's capable of, and you haven't learnt to trust it yet. Getting back on a horse you've known for years is a lot easier. You just need to take it slow, and make sure that with every ride you do a little more than the previous ride. So when you coming for another ride??

[XxFudgexX]

Thank you Hayley, I love coming over just hope I dont ruin all the hard work you have put into Misty with my nerves...what are your plans for Thurs???

Sophie some good advice there thanks, I do think what I need now is to keep riding as often as possible and hopefully things will get better.

[Zeitgeist Mom]

Thursday am working till about 11:30, and then again in the evening, but free in the middle.

[hairycobs]

Losing your confidence is horrendous. I lost mine 7 years ago when my horse fell whilst jumping, she broke her leg and was PTS instantly and I broke my neck plus bit battered and bruised. It took a long time for me to regain my confidence and whilst I would say I have it back it will never be what it was. I found as has already been said is to do little and often. Also it sounds like ZM is a great person to help you, I would say take things at your own pace. My old YO pushed and pushed me and I wasnt ready and she made me more nervous. How about starting one of the diaries??? you might not feel your getting on much but you might find if you look back over a few weeks you will be able to see your own improvements.Good luck and enjoy yourself as much as you can.
PS remember to breathe! Dont go holding your breath as this is what I used to do.....didnt help at all

[Emm]

I feel for you having a confidence battle myself.

Firstly, time is of the essence. Dont rush it, it will come.

Secondly, dont be so hard on yourself!!! Managing a trot on your second attempt being back in the saddle is actually very impressive when your frightened!

Thirdly, (im awful at doing this) instead of getting off and worrying about what you did wrong, or didnt do, look at what step forwards you have taken, and what you did well, and praise yourself! Its not easy re-gaining confidence, so be kind to yourself and praise the good, even if its something small. So instead of saying you trotted and your position was awful (though im sure it wasnt) say, i trotted a HUGE step forwards!

Having support and friends around you speaks volumes in over coming confidence issues, so sounds like your lucky in this aspect.

You will get there, just give it time, and well done for persevering and taking the first huge step and getting back on x

[angietoots]

Fudge, I'm there with you! I'm probably be making the same post in a couple of weeks!! No tips to add I'm afraid, just wanted to tell you you're not alone xx

[My Crazy Clan]

I think we have all been there at one point or another, bolting is the worst, its good that your slowly getting over it, just keep it up and your be back on your boy in no time.