This is a time full of uncertainty. I am still a little bit in shock how so much has changed so quickly. A couple weeks ago I was still working at Prestige (Summerhouse) Equestrian and planning my event season and about to head out show jumping. Now we are in lockdown and the season has gone off the rails. This has given me a reality check and has made me incredibly thankful that myself and my horses are healthy. There is a lot going on in the world right now and a lot of people are being affected by the coronavirus. I feel for the NHS and the families that are being affected by this virus. I thought I would share some thoughts on what to do at home and on the yard to keep you productive, sane  and happy on the yard as well as some optimistic thoughts to take forward.

Tip 1

Make a yard playlist or have different playlists for different things. I have a couple designated playlists for while I muckout and do odd jobs that need doing on the yard. I feel that it helps me keep upbeat and motivated to be productive.

Tip 2

Make a list of all the jobs that during the season aren’t as easy to get done due to everything else going on…

Potential ideas:

Big tack room sort through and clear out- get rid of anything too old or not usable. Organise where you want everything and if there are things you don’t need anymore give them away or find a second home for them. Blanket sort through/ re organise and decide what needs fixing, reproofing, and throwing. Disinfecting and cleaning your grooming box and brushes. Disinfect and clean out the freezer and ice boots.

Tip 3

Make individualised plans for each horse with exercises to help with their weaknesses. Try out different pole, grid, jump and dressage exercises that you have wanted to try but now had the chance to.

Tip 4

Enjoy tidying the horses and give them a spa day. Bath, mane and tail pull (if you pull tails), tail and feathers trim.

Tip 5

Practice tasks that you have been meaning too but haven’t had time for. Things like plaiting with bands or string, tail plaiting, bandaging, quarter marks, studding and cleaning studs holes. etc.

There are so many ways to pass the time in this unprecedented situation. Lets try and stay positive and  optimistic. This will not last forever and we will get back out to doing what we love. But for now lets do what we can to support the community, our horses and ourselves. I wish everyone the very best during this difficult time. Let me know if there are any particular topics you would like me to cover in my blog/social media I am open to any suggestions!

Lots of love from the Sophie Hulme Eventing crew 🙂