Handling nerves when jumping bigger fences

It can take a little time to feel comfortable at certain heights. Take a few deep breaths beforehand, and rehearse your thoughts and what you will say to yourself when it feels a bit scary, for example "we can do this together", "we will sort this out" and so on. Give yourself a couple of easy instructions to focus on as you go, such as how you want the weight in your stirrups or the contact in the reins to feel. Concentrate on things like that before the jumping itself, and it becomes easier to find that secure feeling in the scary moment.

I would also suggest fitting a neck strap that you can hold as you jump. It is easy to balance on the reins when we tense up, and the horse can then start to hesitate or back off as a result. Holding the neck strap can also feel more secure, something extra to hold on to, until the height feels comfortable. 🌸