There are been a few references, within Equiteam Connected, recently to the use of hypnosis and hypnotherapy in order to help riders overcome anxiety and work towards being able to fulfil their riding goals.
I have been using hypnotherapy with riders since 2004 so, after a wee chat with Liz D, we agreed that I would put a few words together to explain a bit more about this fascinating subject.
First of all – let’s explain the definitions…
Hypnosis
Hypnosis is an altered state of conscious awareness which you allow yourself to enter. This is a natural phenomenon which we all regularly experience without actually putting a name to it.
Think of those times when you are totally absorbed in a good book or in some other activity. At these times you are in a trance like state, fully focussed and also fully awake and fully conscious.
A hypnotherapist will guide you into this relaxed state using language and breathing and ultimately, all hypnosis is actually “self hypnosis” as you expect and allow yourself to enter this very pleasant experience of deep relaxation.
There is nothing mystical or magical about hypnosis and when you are in this hypnotic trance, the part of the mind that we call the unconscious, or subconscious, becomes more open and more receptive to ideas and suggestions.
An ethically trained hypnotherapist will never use hypnosis as a form of entertainment and no hypnotherapist can “make” you do things that you do not wish to do or ”take control” of your mind!
Hypnotherapy
Hypnotherapy is a collaborative therapeutic technique which taps into the subconscious mind to effect positive changes in behaviour, thoughts, and emotions.
Hypnosis is the medium in which hypnotherapy takes place and it is a way to enhance “talking therapy”. By allowing the thoughts and ideas, spoken about during your session, to embed into your subconscious mind changes become sustainable and fully incorporated into your new way of thinking and feeling.
The conscious, subconscious and unconscious mind
There is often a lot of confusion between the above terms and the different parts of the mind. A simple way to describe them is:
- The conscious mind is that part of your mind which is aware of your thoughts, feelings and surroundings.
- The subconscious is just below the surface and is where many memories are stored as well as being the source of your emotions.
- The unconscious mind is the deepest part. It has a powerful influence on your behaviour and is where long forgotten memories are stored which may have a powerful influence on your behaviour in the present. It is also where automatic bodily functions such as breathing, digestion and reflexes originate.
(NB your mind is HUGELY more complicated than the above. This is just a very simple way to describe it!).
The use of hypnotherapy for horse riders
One of the primary challenges faced by riders, whether amateurs or professionals, is managing fear and anxiety. Fear of falling, of losing control, or of disappointing oneself or others can hinder performance and erode confidence. Hypnotherapy offers techniques to help to re-programme the mind’s response to fear, replacing it with confidence, calmness, and focus.
Visualization, a cornerstone of hypnotherapy, is particularly beneficial for riders. By vividly imagining successful rides, riders can train their minds to believe in their capabilities. This mental rehearsal primes the brain and body so that when riding in reality your mind is on your side rather than working against you.
Hypnotherapy also equips riders with tools to manage stress and maintain composure in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s the tension of competition day or the unpredictability of a (in Liz’s words!) “SPICY” horse, the ability to remain centred and in control is invaluable. Through relaxation techniques and self-hypnosis, riders can cultivate a state of mental resilience that allows them to perform at their best under any circumstances.
Sometimes it is necessary to delve into the subconscious mind, allowing riders to uncover and address underlying issues that may be impeding their progress. Whether it’s past traumas, limiting beliefs, or communication barriers, hypnotherapy offers a pathway to making lasting changes and allowing the rider to move forwards without being impeded by past events.
Finally - a word of warning
At the time of writing the “therapy industry” in the UK is unregulated. This means that anyone can learn a few terms, set up a website and call themselves a hypnotherapist, a mindset coach, a “counsellor”, or any other type of talking therapist.
Before consulting anyone to help you with the psychological side of riding please do make sure that they have appropriate qualifications and experience
If you would like to find out more about Jane and Horse Riding with Confidence Scotland you can follow her on social media or visit her website: