Tag: Clear Eyes Sound Mind Halt Salute

By Natasha Rombeck: In January 2007, I became paralyzed on the right side of my body from the neck down. The cause, we found out later, was Multiple Sclerosis.

After meeting a Mustang mare at the therapy center, Johnny suggested I should look at adopting a Mustang. He mentioned that it would be a good thing for me as, just like humans with trauma, Mustangs have trust issues and some trauma too. The groundwork and the connection you are getting through the process of developing a relationship with a Mustang would help me in my healing journey. 

It’s a feeling that many riders are all-too familiar with: you're standing on the mounting block with a pit in your stomach, heart pounding, trying to slow your breathing. Maybe it starts before you get to the mounting block, when you swing the saddle over your horse’s back. Maybe it starts far earlier than that, on the drive over to the barn. No matter the timing, many equestrians struggle with riding anxiety at some point. Some find a way to address it and move on, while others spend years trying to reconcile the sport they love with the fear that holds them back.

In two weeks I will celebrate 6 years sober. I am in awe of that. I hope I never stop looking at the gifts that every single new day brings with extreme gratitude.

This story is part of our series, “Clear Eyes, Sound Mind, Halt, Salute.” Focusing on equestrian mental health, these articles come from riders across the...

By Elyse Hart Welcome to Part 4 in our new series, “Clear Eyes, Sound Mind, Halt, Salute.” Focusing on equestrian mental health, these articles come from...

By Chelsey Burris 2020 has been a wild year, and in all the craziness, you may have missed some great content on YourDressage.  Here are...

By Sophie Wayner Welcome to Part 3 in our new series, “Clear Eyes, Sound Mind, Halt, Salute.” Focusing on equestrian mental health, these articles come from...

By Emma Kane Welcome to our new series, "Clear Eyes, Sound Mind, Halt, Salute." Focusing on equestrian mental health, these articles come from dressage riders...