It's not uncommon for riders to feel scared or stressed when they're on horseback. These emotions can sometimes get in the way of their performance. To remedy this, some riders turn to methods such as sophrology or hypnosis. In this article, Marion Fardelli, sophrologist for riders, introduces you to these two disciplines and explains the benefits of such support.

Negative emotions: a brake on performance 

The stress and the fear are known to all riders. For some, these negative emotions are only temporary. For others, they are a real brake in their progress. When hard work and perseverance do not change anything, they can quickly become discouraging. However, it is not impossible to get rid of them. From techniques and a individual support can help to get rid of them and allow the rider to enjoy riding again with a clear mind.

Horses are the mirror of our emotions

Who hasn't heard their coach say "if you're scared, your horse feels it"? Indeed, they are very sensitive to our犀利士 s emotions. That's why it's so important to know how to control them to develop a better relationship with your horse and improve performance. Marion Fardelli, sophrologist for riderstells you more: 

"Even if not bred with this in mind, the horse remains prey and man a predator. The rider must be calm, confident and reassuring in order to put his horse in the right conditions and enjoy quality time together. Your horse needs to see you as an ally, a protector, and that's where the magic happens. Controlling your emotions perfectly is the secret to achieving a beautiful relationship with your horse."

What is sophrology and hypnosis? 

You may be familiar with these disciplines. You may even have practised them before. But did you know that they can also be valuable allies in creating a beautiful relationship with your horse? 

"the sophrology is a set of breathing breathing techniques that will help you release negative tension and optimize your performance. L'hypnosiswill help you to resolve traumas that have an impact on your daily life on horseback. Practicing these techniques will give you the right tools to regain control of your emotions in all circumstances. With sophrology and hypnosis, there's a solution for every problem."

For example breathing techniques For example, sophrology can be used to put you in a bubble before a competition and reduce your stress. These are small, simple exercises simple things that you can do whenever you feel the need. Hypnosis can help you feel good again after a big fall. confidence after a big fall.

Specialised support for riders

"80% of riders at some point experience difficulties with their horses that are related to their emotions (stress, fear, lack of confidence, disconnection with their horse). This is why specialised coaching for riders can be a real change." 

Agathe Poutaraud, professional event rider, has been practicing sophrology for 1 year with Marion Fardelli. Thanks to this method, she feels more calmer and co犀利士 nfident. "Now, I can breathe much better, which relaxes me and gives me more self-confidence. Thanks to better breathing, it helps me reduce stress and leads to better performances! You can really see it on my last few laps, which are much more fluid and relaxed!"

The benefits of such support are manifold:

• Better stress management
• Optimisation of concentration
• Improved physical and mental performance
• Support for horse and rider recovery

"Whether in top-level competition or for leisure, many riders are already using his techniques and are delighted with the results."

To feel totally at ease confidence on horseback, the methods of relaxation can be combined with safety equipment such as the SAFEFIT airbag waistcoat developed by SEAVER. This equipment allows riders to be protected from bad falls and gives them extra peace of mind. 

For more information on the possible accompaniments, please visit the Equi&Sophro page on emotional support for riders. 

Sources : 

• Marion FARDELLI, Equi&Sophro, sophrologist for riders