How to keep your determination and gumption when you get back in the saddle?

[Jinx94]

Evening all!

It's been a while..

Could really do with some advice/a kick up the bum.

I came off Tris on Monday 12th. He was spooked by a low flying Chinook, spun and tried to take off, scrabbled about A LOT and eventually ejected me out of the side door with another quick spin. Sods law, I sat the worst of it, relaxed as he seemed to be coming back to me and then got caught out I hit my head pretty hard, had a concussion and a soft tissue injury in my neck at the base of my skull.

My replacement hat should arrive tomorrow - I didn't order it sooner as have been trying to behave and give myself some time to heal. I can't wait to get back on board, play with our flatwork and pop him over a few fences.

I did have a couple of scary days when I wasn't sure if I had done more damage than I thought, and have resolved to stop letting fear stop me from doing what I want to do. Typically, I'm now scared that I'll lose this newfound determination and confidence once I'm back in the saddle any suggestions for keeping it up and hanging on to a 'can do' attitude???

 

[gunnergundog]

Read 'Feel the Fear & Do It Anyway'....an old book - 1980s, but worked for me. Alternatively, there are newer versions of the same thing based on taming your inner chimp. Just google to get titles.

You can do it!

 

[SaddlePsych'D]

I'm not sure what to suggest specifically but wondering if this really is a 'kick up the bum' type situation. One because what happened sounds a bit scary so it would be understandable to be wary coming back, and two because you've sustained a head/brain and neck injury. Perhaps it's understandable to feel a bit wobbly? Doesn't mean you won't get things back but maybe it's okay to pace yourself and not worry too much if you're not able to sustain confidence at the moment.

When you say 'a couple of scary days', what does that mean?

 

[Spotherisk]

Go a bit steady - he might have lost a bit of confidence as well. Hope you feel better soon.

 

[Keira 8888]

So sorry you had this accident - must have been horrible ?

I have recently read a book by Kelly Marks called “perfect confidence” and it’s all about overcoming fear/anxiety from a bad experience. It really is very good!

good luck xx

 

[Jinx94]

Read 'Feel the Fear & Do It Anyway'....an old book - 1980s, but worked for me. Alternatively, there are newer versions of the same thing based on taming your inner chimp. Just google to get titles.

You can do it!

Thanks for the suggestions! Love a good self help book!!

I'm not sure what to suggest specifically but wondering if this really is a 'kick up the bum' type situation. One because what happened sounds a bit scary so it would be understandable to be wary coming back, and two because you've sustained a head/brain and neck injury. Perhaps it's understandable to feel a bit wobbly? Doesn't mean you won't get things back but maybe it's okay to pace yourself and not worry too much if you're not able to sustain confidence at the moment.

When you say 'a couple of scary days', what does that mean?

Thank you x

My confidence has always been a bit hit and miss. It varies massively from second to second, I don't want to lose what I feel like I've gained! Certainly at the time, this incident didn't scare me. It was more of a "well, this is unfortunate". I feel like it was a bit of a wake up call as bad things can happen even when you're doing something as simple as a gentle walk around the field to cool down after bossing a flat session! Therefore, holding back because of the "what ifs" probably won't make you all that much safer and just limits your fun and enjoyment!

When the headaches from the concussion started to go, I got much more aware of a fair bit of localised neck pain. My range of motion was very limited (the muscles went rock solid) and any movement would bring on a very nasty headache and dizzy spell. I had pretty much constant nausea and a fair amount of light and noise sensitivity. My neck has been very clicky at that point since the fall. I have been to hospital, had a thorough check up and a full set of (apparently perfect) neck xrays I'm much better now. Today was nausea-free, and my neck has only started to feel a little sore in the last couple of hours.

My pain perception can be a bit screwy, and it isn't unusual for me to have a more severe injury than I realise. That's why I made a point of getting the xrays.


Thanks everyone xxx

 

[Frumpoon]

I find alcohol helps

 

[smolmaus]

Have you considered asking your GP about some physio? Even if there is nothing in the x-rays. I powered through some whiplash after a car accident must be 15 years ago now and it’s still giving me trouble. Necks are sensitive bits of kit!

 

[Trouper]

Ooh please no alcohol if you are still not feeling "not quite right" after a head bang. I would urge a physio appt to have a look at your neck. The x-rays may be fine but there is a lot of soft tissue which will have been affected and a good physio can really help. You'd do it for your horse!!!!!!

 

[MuddyMonster]

I wouldn't get back on until you're 110% signed by Dr's.

I've struggled with confidence in the past and found NLP really, really helpful. Karl Greenwood's book has been really helpful too - I saw him live at an event and that also really helped, if he's ever near you post CV.

Personally, I didn't find trying to 'man up' or 'feel the fear and do it anyway' type approach helpful as it didnt fundamentally help the underlying problem but NLP helped give me strategi
es & visualisation exercises to actually change my approach.

Everyone is different though ?

 

[asmp]

I find “making myself safe” helps my confidence. By wearing breeches with silicon grips, using a monkey handle and, if you can afford one, wearing an air jacket.

I nearly came off just after buying my hi viz Hit Air and I remember hanging on for dear life as I didn’t want it to get muddy!

 

[Wizpop]

I've struggled with confidence in the past and found NLP really, really helpful. Karl Greenwood's book has been really helpful too - I saw him live at an event and that also really helped.

As an NLP Practitioner, I would totally recommend this - it can be very helpful. If you look around online you will probably find other articles to do with NLP and horse riding that will be helpful to you. Working with a practitioner to help you through the processes initially is usually the most effective way- or you could try getting a friend to talk you through them.

Would also recommend a good Sports Physio as this will probably work wonders. Also agree very much with asmp regarding making yourself as safe as possible.?

 

[littleshetland]

Ive had some issues with low flying Chinooks lately, that have made me feel a bit 'wobbly' about riding as my horse absolutely hates them. If its any help there is number you can call to find how active the RAF are in your area on a particular day, also they tend to be a lot less active over the weekends. Also, mindfulness can help with general nerves...if you feel yourself imagining a 'worst case scenario' try switching your thoughts and focusing on something really small...like your little finger, big toe, breathing. Drop your seat and shoulders - like a sack of potatoes - and focus on those small things. I hope this helps...good luck, I'm sure you'll be fine.

 

[Carlosmum]

I find “making myself safe” helps my confidence. By wearing breeches with silicon grips, using a monkey handle and, if you can afford one, wearing an air jacket.

^^^ this, Expect the unexpected and protect yourself. I never ride out without the air-jacket and my phone, and after yesterdays 'quiet hack' around the farm I am putting my R-Stor back on the saddle too!