Fearless Riding (Part I)

Equestrian sports come with an inherent danger so fear is something most riders must manage.

But imagine if you could use science to help with the jitters.

This is your brain before Neuroscience.

Neuroplasticity is a fancy medical term to describe your brain’s ability to learn and adapt. The Cleveland Clinic likens neuroscience to an internal rewiring process that allows your mind to grow and meet new and increased demands.

This is your brain on Neuroscience.

In the April edition of Horse Illustrated, Tracey Cole, Ph.D., describes how to transform fear to find a deeper connection with your horse by changing your thinking patterns.

The concept of neuroplasticity suggests that with practice and intention, you can train your brain to react differently.

Below is a summary:

Power Tool	What it does	How to use it
Dopamine	“Feel good” neurochemical associated with pleasure, reward, motivation.	Set small goals to trigger a positive feedback loop.
Serotonin	95% is generated in your gut - this neurochemical regulates mood and emotional stability.	Look after your digestion, limit sugar, alcohol and processed foods.
Oxytocin	Created during positive interactions, Oxytocin enhances social bonds and promotes feelings of trust and safety.	Grooming horse with meaningful intention may improve communication and performance.
Confidence and Focus	Opportunity to shift from mindset of dread and pressure to empowerment.	Micro-habits that become goals such as: posture, breathing, or pressure on the stirrups.
Emotional Regulation	Riding can be a roller-coaster of emotion, learning how to manage these shifts can impact your performance.	Practice conscious self-talk that is useful and task driven such as distance to jump, degree of turn.

I’ll try some brain retraining and let you know if Captain notices the difference.