Press the pause button
Posted 16th January 2025
Angie Jones-Moore reveals how the practice of mindfulness can benefit both you and your horse

You may have heard about the concept of mindfulness, but what is it exactly? Well, mindfulness is defined as being in the present moment without judgement. That sounds pretty simple, but it can actually be incredibly difficult to achieve and, in fact, we’re only rarely truly mindful.
Life in focus
Mindfulness is one of the cognitive skills your brain uses to pay attention, think in general, process information and remember things. But we lead busy lives and are often thinking about several things at once, resulting in increased stress levels.
This can lead to raised cortisol and adrenaline, the hormones that keep us safe and alert if our autonomic nervous system perceives that we’re in a situation that’s potentially dangerous. These hormones are helpful when we really are in danger, but otherwise they simply result in heightened anxiety and increased feelings of stress.
Top tip
By mastering breathing differently, you can become more mindful and present, and the often elevated cocktail of stress hormones can be lowered.
Slow things down
By developing your ability to act mindfully and being more present in the moment, especially when you’re around your horse, not only will you benefit personally, but he will, too.
Like any new skill, it takes time and practice to get right. The first step is trying to be aware of when you’re in a rush, tense, or stressed. If you are, take a second to pause what you’re doing and take one deep inhale and exhale, rather like a sigh. Then, as you continue about your day, try to slow down. This simple technique is a good way to begin with mindfulness.
Top tip
The one-minute meditation method can be used anywhere without anyone even knowing, and if you should ever feel under pressure, you can apply it then, too.
Discover more about how mindfulness can benefit both you and your horse in March Horse&Rider – out now!