It seemed to me that I'd been riding more and feeling more confident, and therefore riding better. And maybe I actually am, but maybe it doesn't show so much to other people, yet. I heard via the grapevine that I still slide off to one side in the saddle and that it seems like I rode better when we first got to the barn -- nearly 6 years ago, now.
Sigh.
I'd say most of it is fear and the struggles I have now trying to relax in the saddle after all my spills. Telling myself to relax is apparently not quite enough. Sometimes, I actually manage it, though, and the difference is amazing. Especially when I remember to breathe!
The shift forward in the saddle (recommended by Ike) has also really seemed to help. I have so much further to go but that little bit gave me a better place to start from, so the rest of my body can start to fall into place. As long as my shoulders stay back (always an argument) my arms feel comfortable in that nice bent-elbow place, not like I'm too far back and trying to compensate by leaning my upper body forward and do who-knows-what with my arms.
So it was a little disheartening to hear that feedback, even though I'm sure it was well-intentioned. I may try riding Lena this week to see how much of a difference that makes and--if it is a positive switch--try to channel it when I ride Bar.
The bottom line is I need to ride more. Period. I will never teach my body what it needs to know, what it needs to do, unless we do it.
I am riding a little more than I had been, though not as much as we both need. Even if it's just tacking on a few more minutes here and there, the more I ride, the more I start to relax. The more I relax, the more peace and balance I find. The peace and balance lead to more enjoyment, which leads to riding more. Wash. Rinse. Repeat.
Bar has proven himself to be a worthy partner and has gone back to taking care of me after the last bit of we-don't-really-know-what-it-was. So. I just have to bring myself to trust him a little more--every day, every ride.
And breathe. Just breathe.
2 comments:
Breathing is good . . . All of us have odd postural/body position things going on, and mostly our horses get used to us and just get on with business - do what you can and don't worry about the rest. And you're right about miles in the saddle - they make all the difference.
Seriously... I echo what Kate said. And, sometimes when I hear things, depending on where my head is at, it may come across as harsher than the original intention. Strength and balance will come... it takes a little longer after an accident. Clear your head and enjoy your ride!
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