Do you find that the nerves arrive long before you ever reach the start?
 
Whether it's the night before a competition, the moment you load your horse, or the final few minutes waiting your turn — that familiar rush of nerves can take over just when you need to feel your steadiest. You may notice your breathing change, your hands tighten on the reins, or your mind racing ahead to everything that could go wrong — even though, deep down, you know you and your horse are ready.
 
You are not alone. And there is a calmer way to arrive at competition day.
This Overcoming Competition Nerves Self-Hypnosis, created by Sharon Shinwell, co-author of Ride With Confidence, has been designed for riders across every discipline — dressage, showjumping, cross country, and showing — who want to feel calm, focused, and fully present when it matters most.
 
Imagine arriving at the venue with:
A Quieter Mind: Set aside the racing thoughts and step into the present moment, ready for what's ahead
Steady Focus: Channel nervous energy into clear, purposeful riding rather than tension
A Trusted Partnership: Bring the same calm connection you feel at home into the ring, the arena, or the start box
 
This soothing guided session uses:
Peaceful Visualisation: A gentle journey through competition day — from arrival to performance — across all four major disciplines
Therapeutic Guidance: Carefully crafted suggestions that help your nervous system associate competition day with calm readiness rather than anxiety
A Personal Trigger Phrase: "Ready and calm" — three simple words that anchor you back to this feeling, whenever and wherever you need them
Soothing Background Music: Woven throughout to deepen relaxation and support lasting change.
 
This session is designed to help you:
Release Pre-Competition Tension: Let go of the racing thoughts and physical tightness that build before a competition
Reconnect With Your Preparation: Remember everything you and your horse have already worked for, and trust it
Ride With Presence: Bring quiet focus and softness into the saddle, whatever the discipline
Build a Lasting Tool: Create a simple, portable phrase you can use anywhere — at home, at the yard, or at thestart.
 
This is not about pretending the nerves don't exist, or forcing yourself to feel different overnight. It's about gently teaching your mind and body a new, calmer response — one that becomes more natural every time you listen.
 
Simply find somewhere comfortable, close your eyes, and allow Sharon's warm and reassuring guidance to bring you back to calm.