Horse riding can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it can also be quite daunting for beginners. For someone like me, who is blind, the idea of horseback riding might seem like an unattainable dream. However, my recent horse riding lesson shattered these misconceptions and showed me that with the right instructor, determination, and a willingness to learn, anything is possible. In this blog post, I will share my memorable horse riding lesson experience, where I not only learned the basics of grooming, saddling, and bridling but also encountered incredible kindness and inclusivity.
As I arrived at the horse riding stable, I felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness. To my pleasant surprise, the moment I met my instructor, I felt welcomed and at ease. She introduced herself warmly, and her genuine smile instantly put me at ease. Most importantly, she wasn’t at all concerned about my blindness, which was a relief.
Before getting on the horse, my instructor started by teaching me the importance of grooming. Grooming not only keeps the horse clean and comfortable but also creates a bond between the rider and the horse. With my instructor’s guidance, I learned to brush the horse’s coat, mane, and tail. Feeling the softness of the horse’s coat and the flow of its mane beneath my fingers was a truly sensory experience that deepened my connection with the horse.
After grooming, it was time to saddle the horse. My instructor patiently explained the various parts of the saddle and how they should be placed on the horse’s back. She encouraged me to feel each strap, buckle, and the saddle itself, so I could understand how they all fit together. With her guidance, I successfully saddled the horse, and it felt like a small victory.
The final step before mounting the horse was to put on the bridle. My instructor walked me through the process step by step, ensuring that I understood the placement of the bit and reins. She even allowed me to touch the horse’s mouth so I could feel where the bit would rest. This tactile approach to learning made me feel more confident in handling the horse.
Throughout the lesson, my instructor’s kindness and inclusivity stood out. She understood that my blindness presented unique challenges, but she never made me feel inadequate or different. Instead, she adapted her teaching style to suit my needs, using verbal instructions and encouraging me to rely on my other senses, such as touch and hearing. Her open-mindedness and willingness to accommodate made all the difference in my experience.
My horse riding lesson was not just about learning the basics of grooming, saddling, and bridling—it was a lesson in kindness, inclusivity, and the power of a passionate instructor. Thanks to her patience and encouragement, I gained confidence in my abilities and discovered that blindness need not limit my horizons. This experience taught me that with the right support and a willingness to learn, anyone can pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of riding a horse, don’t let anything hold you back—reach out to a supportive riding instructor and embark on your own unforgettable journey.
The Dappled Odysseys 