An Equestrian's Guide to Surviving the Darker Evenings

Can you believe it's the 1st September! Personally I have some big changes ahead this month. The time has come for me to leave my lovely yard of many years as very sadly it is becoming one of many new housing estates in the area. After some serious searching I am very lucky (and relieved) to be moving to a new small yard closer to home where I am sure we will create more wonderful memories. But whilst the mission of moving horses awaits me I can already see what the darker evenings are drawing in and I am so not ready for winter! But what can we do as equestrians to get ourselves ready for surviving the winter evenings?  

Preparation is Key 

We've been loving our summer routine but now we are slowly heading towards dark early evenings, muddy boots and plenty of cosy layers. Whilst we still have some sunshine it's time to get prepped for the winter ahead. What needs sorting at the yard? Do the stable mats need a wash? Does the stable need hoovering? Perhaps you have tonnes of turnout rugs that still need washing and reproofing. Make a day of it with your besties at the yard and have an end of summer sort and clean. 

Make Yourself Visible 

As the daylight reduces everything you take for granted at the stables becomes a bit more difficult. Out hacking you need to make sure you are visible to cars, dog walkers and fellow riders so make sure your high vis is in a good state if you haven't had need to use it over the summer. Hang it up somewhere ready to grab and go when you're heading out riding. Here at The Horse Diva we'll soon be stocking some fabulous high visibility items and lights so keep an eye out for this new collection arriving in the upcoming weeks.

Get Your Yard Bag Organised 

If like me you often pop into the yard on the way to and from work, you probably keep the essential items in your car ready to use. When it comes to summer this isn't really much - just a pair of yard gloves and my yard trainers to be honest! Come winter the bag needs to be a bit more extensive. Some things to consider and get organised now include 

• A small torch or headtorch 
• Spare gloves
• Warm socks 
• Wellingtons 
• Waterproof layers 
• A dry warm layer 
• Emergency snacks!  

Reduce the Pressure 

Has your summer been full of horsey fun and fitness? Whatever you have been up to over recent months the change of season is sure to bring changes to your routine. Now is it important to give yourself permission to make these changes and reduce the pressure on yourself and your horse. As adults we have lots of life commitments and the last thing you need to do is feel guilty for not doing enough work with your horse through the cold dark months. Of course its good to have something to work towards and stay motivated but take this is your reminder not to beat yourself up for not sticking to a strict riding regime this winter!!

Make Your Evenings Easier 

Are you a morning or evening person? I don't know about you but during the winter I find it easier to get as much as possible sorted in the mornings to keep the evenings nice and easy! Set that alarm a little bit earlier than normal this winter and get everything sorted each morning before you head off to work. Then later on in the day you can get your horse tucked up for the night and get home to a nice cosy cuppa and a good drama on the TV.  

Bring on Autumn! 

As we leave behind a wonderful horsey summer there is something lovely about the Autumnal months. Who else is looking forward to an evening hug, putting your hands under your horse's rug and feeling that wonderful warmth? I love hacking through the leaves that have fallen from the trees and feeling cosy in my layers on a crisp bright chilly October morning. What is your favourite part of Autumn with horses and are you ready for summer to end!?