Why Not?

In this solo episode, I'm diving into something that's been showing up in my own life lately — the middle bit. That weird, quiet, slightly awkward phase where you've started the work, but the big results haven't arrived yet.You're not struggling, but you're not buzzing either. You're showing up, but it doesn't feel exciting. Sound familiar?This is the episode I needed myself this week — a reminder that growth isn't always loud, and that progress often hides in the days that feel slow or uncertain.What I cover:Why the “middle” of any journey feels the hardestHow to recognise progress that doesn't feel like progressThe difference between a plateau and quiet integrationWhy slowing down doesn't mean starting overWhat I'm learning about consistency that doesn't rely on hypeHow to stay connected to your goals when momentum feels lowYou're not off track — you're just on a hill. And hills feel harder… but they still move you forward.If you've been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.Work with me: ⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠Find me on Instagram: ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I'd love to hear your thoughts.Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.Tag ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this solo episode, I'm following up on Episode 191 (When Progress Feels Like Panic) with a deeper dive into the dips that come after growth — and how easy it is to mistake them for failure.This week, I hit one of those dips myself. After a run of feeling good and showing up consistently, I found myself shutting down — and falling into familiar patterns. But this time, I responded differently.This episode is for anyone who's ever asked, “Why does it feel like I'm back here again?” even though they know they've grown.We'll talk about:How momentum really works (spoiler: it's not linear)Why old patterns show up when you're tired, stressed, or stretchedThe difference between rest and avoidanceWhy “I should be over this” is a lieHow to recognise progress even in the middle of a setbackThe one thing I'm doing differently this time aroundYou're not back at the start — you're facing something familiar with stronger awareness. And that's what growth actually looks like.If you've been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.Work with me: ⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠Find me on Instagram: ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I'd love to hear your thoughts.Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.Tag ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠ in your stories so I can say thanks.Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, I'm getting into the real reason your training isn't consistent—and it's not because you're lazy or unmotivated. It's because you're not planning it like you plan everything else in your life.You schedule work, appointments, social plans—so why do you expect your workouts to just happen?We'll cover:Why motivation fades and clarity keeps you goingHow to figure out what your body actually needsThe difference between training for a purpose vs training out of guiltHow to stop wasting time on workouts that don't serve youWhat planning your training really looks like (without overcomplicating it)When getting help is the fastest way to stop spinning your wheelsIf you've been stuck in a loop of starting, stopping, and second-guessing—this is for you.Work with me: www.chrissyhawkins.comFind me on Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_Got questions? DM me or drop a voice note—I'd love to hear your thoughts.Share it with someone who needs to stop waiting for motivation.Leave a quick rating or review—it helps get this message in front of more people.Tag @stronginthesaddle_ in your stories so I can say thanks.Resources + Links:If you found this episode useful…Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this solo episode, I dive into the realities of overthinking — and how waiting for the "perfect" plan or moment can leave you stuck doing nothing at all.I talk about:How I wasn't even an over-planner — I just avoided planning altogether, but convinced myself I'd made progressThe challenges of being an introvert in a media course full of extroverts, and the jealousy I felt seeing others so clear on their pathsWorking in a jewellers, eventually studying to become a PT, and how long it took me to make the leap into the fitness worldRealising I'm not a professional planner — I'm a professional overthinkerHow even perfectly laid plans (like my trip through France) can still go wrong — and why that's okayThe importance of learning by doing, and seeing setbacks as feedback, not failureTaking opportunities even when you don't feel ready, because that's the only way to growFinding little ways to get out of your own head — even if it's having full-blown conversations with yourselfCreating routines and rituals that help you take action, without overwhelming yourself with a huge list of “non-negotiables”Why if you wait for the perfect time, you'll just end up watching life pass you by — so you might as well go for itI'd love to hear what you're working towards — drop a comment and let me know!inks + Mentions:Connect on Instagram → ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this solo episode, I'm sharing something I've been unpacking privately for a long time—my relationship with stress, and how it shows up when life starts to change.You'll hear about the pattern I've noticed in myself: how I sometimes retreat after making bold moves, even when they're exactly what I wanted.I talk through how I used to bury stress, what happened when that stopped working, and the questions I ask myself now when I start to feel overwhelmed or blocked.Whether you're in a season of growth, burnout, or somewhere in between—this episode is here to remind you: you're not behind, and you're not alone.What I cover:Why we pull back after stepping outside our comfort zoneThe stress response no one talks aboutHow I process overwhelm and check in with what I really needThe difference between resting and avoidingSimple steps to move forward without bulldozing yourselfLinks + Mentions:Connect on Instagram → @stronginthesaddle_Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Today I'm joined by Mark Jason Fanning — racing pundit, content creator, and all-round racing enthusiast. If you've ever found yourself caught up in the buzz of a raceday or just love hearing from someone who truly lives and breathes the sport, this one's for you.We chat about:How Mark first got into racing — from skipping school to hiding in ditches just to catch a glimpse of the action at ThurlesWorking with bookies on racedays to earn a few quid and fuel the passionHow the general interest in racing has changed over the years, even around big events like CheltenhamThe shift in tech from the Bebo days to building a brand and showing up online nowThe challenges of putting yourself out there and how to handle both constructive feedback and the not-so-constructivePlans for the year ahead, including setting up a little home studio for content creationTackling racing's bad reputation — and why we need more stories that highlight the real care and love for the horsesWhy good news doesn't travel as fast as bad news, and what needs to changeGoing to Cheltenham for the first time (despite working in racing for years) and how it lived up to the hypeMark also flips the script at the end and shares the best advice he would give someone starting outWe also take a moment to reflect on the tragic passing of jockey Michael O'Sullivan, and the impact it had on the racing community — a sobering reminder of the risks in the sport and the strength of the people within it.Where to find Mark:Instagram – @markjason86YouTube – MJF SportsIf you are interested in working with me you can find me :Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

It's been a while since I've done a solo episode – and even more mad that I'm recording this one from France

Today I'm chatting with Dillon Ryan, better known as @dillon_equi on Instagram. Dillon's an equestrian influencer now, but he only started riding in 2020 — and what a journey it's been since.Growing up in a small village in North County Dublin, Dillon always felt drawn to horses trotting by, but it wasn't until the world shut down during COVID and his work in the airline industry paused that he decided to finally give riding a go.We talk about:The nerves of starting lessons as an adultKnowing instantly he was in the right placeDiscovering that horses all have their own personalitiesLeasing one horse… then another… until a friend suggested, “Why don't you just get your own?”The process of finding his first horse, Duffy, with support from more experienced horsey friendsThe emotional moment of bringing Duffy homeThe heartbreaking decision to let Duffy go and thinking he might never own a horse againMeeting Elvis, his current horse — and realising the difference between owning a 14-year-old versus a 5-year-old!Going back to basics, building trust, and learning togetherThe importance of setting your ego aside and getting help when you need itCelebrating the little wins that come with producing a young horseHis plans for the year ahead with ElvisAnd some great advice for anyone starting out in the equestrian worldThis is a brilliant, down-to-earth chat about coming into the equestrian world as an adult, building confidence, and embracing the ups and downs that come with horse ownership.Where to find Dillon:Instagram – @dillon_equi

Today, I'm chatting with Lorraine Cribben, better known as @edthedun on Instagram. Lorraine is a veterinary nurse, an equine photographer, and an equestrian influencer who has built a strong community around her journey with her horse, Ed.We talk about:How she got into equine photography and how balancing two jobs doesn't feel like work when you love what you doSetting up her Instagram page just after she got Ed and being surprised by how quickly it took offThe surreal feeling of being recognised as “someone from Instagram”Then, we dive into Ed—how Lorraine nearly missed out on him but, thanks to a bit of fate, he ended up being hers. She shares:What it was like bringing him home for the first timeThe different things they've tried together, including giving polo a goWhy he's currently on holidays and the challenges of winter ridingThe process of bringing a horse back to fitness after a breakWe also chat about the importance of having a solid support system—whether you're competing or just riding for fun.Lorraine shares her plans for both Ed's future and her Instagram page, including an exciting giveaway coming up soon!To follow along with Lorraine and Ed, check out @edthedun on Instagram.If you are interested in working with me you can find me :Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Do you hate the gym? This might be diet cultures fault.Today, I'm chatting with Maggie Lawlor, owner of Simple Strength Gym in Leixlip, who specialises in non-diet fitness for women.Maggie first got into gym-based training as a runner trying to avoid injuries, but over the years, her passion grew. She eventually became a coach, left her job as a nurse, and took the leap to open her own gym.We talk about:Making the move from nursing to coaching and how she gradually built her client base before going all inHer first pregnancy and how it led her deep into research on strength training for womenThe pressure on women to “bounce back” after pregnancy and why that mindset needs to changeThe physical benefits of strength training before and after birthHow experienced lifters sometimes struggle to adjust intensity during pregnancyListening to your body and why rest is not a sign of weaknessThe grip of diet culture on women and the fear of losing fitness or gaining weight instead of focusing on growing a humanWhy every woman should see a pelvic floor physio postpartumRunning a marathon while breastfeeding (!?)The dangers of comparing yourself to celebrities or athletes with completely different circumstancesWe then dive into Maggie's approach at Simple Strength Gym:Why so many people think they hate gyms when really, they just hate the association with punishment and guiltHow she reassures new clients—no weigh-ins, no unrealistic expectations, just movement that feels goodThe health benefits of exercise we all take for granted until they're goneWhy smaller studio gyms can be a better fit for people nervous about startingThe importance of paying attention to the content you consume and how it shapes your self-imageThe sneaky ways diet culture hides in fitness challenges—if it looks like a diet, it probably isWhy true healthy habits aren't flashy, but they actually workHow fitness should be simple—if someone overcomplicates it, that's a red flagAccepting that some days will be better than others and that doesn't make you a failureMaggie finishes with some brilliant advice to leave you thinking.To find out more or work with Maggie, you can find her at:@simple.strength.leixliphttps://www.simplestrengthleixlip.com/If you are interested in working with me you can find me :Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Are you living life on Default?In today's episode, I chat with Molly Smyth, the creator and host of The Healing Gals Podcast.Molly also hosts women's circles and workshops, where she brings women together to support each other and help them heal.Molly's own healing journey began when she discovered her long-term partner had been cheating on her, shattering her world. This difficult experience led her to a path of healing, and now she's passionate about helping other women on their own journeys.We dive into topics like:Conditioning: How women are conditioned to feel “less than” so they can be sold more and more products to try to make them feel worthy.Compliments and Body Image: We discuss how well-intentioned compliments about someone's appearance may have a negative impact, and how it's important to be mindful of how we talk about others' bodies.Curating Your Environment: How carefully choosing your social media feed and the conversations you're a part of can affect your self-esteem and how you feel about yourself.Worthy Without Effort: Molly shares why you don't have to change anything about yourself to be worthy. It's okay if others choose things like makeup, diets, or cosmetic surgery—just make sure it's something you truly want, not something you feel pressured into.Not a Trend: We talk about how our bodies are not trends, and how the pressure to keep changing them to fit ever-changing standards is damaging.We also explore Molly's previous relationship, how she was manipulated, and how she allowed it to happen because she was in such a vulnerable state.Boundaries: Molly talks about the importance of setting boundaries—not to change others, but to protect your own well-being and create space for relationships with people who respect you.Resentment and Relationships: We discuss how running yourself ragged in relationships can breed resentment, which can ultimately kill the connection.The Patriarchy: How hating the patriarchy doesn't mean hating men and how both women and men are affected by it.Insidious Influence: We talk about how patriarchy sneaks into our lives, through advertising, and the ways we unknowingly act in our own homes.Molly finishes with the best piece of advice on taking care of your inner child and why it's so crucial for our well-being.You can find Molly and the podcast on Instagram: @healinggalspodcastIf you are interested in working with me you can find me :Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We know horses can cause anxiety but can they help you cure it too?This week, I'm joined by Siobhan O'Gara, better known as @trottingawaymyanxiety_ on Instagram.As much as she cringes at the term, she's an equestrian influencer who has built a community by simply showing up and being herself.Siobhan rode as a child but took a break when she didn't have her own horse. Now, with adult money, she hasn't just bought one—she's got four!We chat about how quickly she went from one to three horses in just a few months, how she balances them all, and the feeling of bringing home her first horse after literally writing down exactly what she wanted. The universe definitely delivered!We also talk about her unconventional approach—buying horses without ever riding them first—something that would make most equestrians break out in a sweat.Then, we switch gears to her experience with anxiety and how it completely halted her life. Siobhan shares how, despite not having an obvious trigger, her anxiety became so severe she was convinced she had a physical illness. She opens up about: The fight to get doctors to listen and not misdiagnose her with depression Taking a solo flight to Edinburgh after nearly 10 years of being unable to travel How content creation helped her feel real again Why social media actually helped both of us find answers for our own mental health strugglesWe also chat about how animals can be a lifeline during tough times, the pressure to be a “proper equestrian”, and why it's okay to just have fun with your horses instead of chasing competition goals.Siobhan gives some great insight into the equestrian community, common misconceptions, and shares her advice for anyone wanting to grow online. And of course, she wraps up with the final question in a way only she can.Find Siobhan on Instagram: @trottingawaymyanxiety_If you are interested in working with me you can find me :Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠@stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This week, I'm joined by Shane McCarthy, an AI aficionado and entrepreneur, back for another chat after his first appearance on Episode #107 .⁠ Following on from last week's AI episode, we dive deeper into what AI can really do, the opportunities it presents, and the challenges it brings.

Time for me to be the one answering the question Why Not? In today's episode, I'm sharing how I'm fully living the why not philosophy by launching my new AI-powered brand, Creative Horizons Content Creation! This isn't just a business; it's my leap into the future of creativity, and I'm bringing you along for the ride. Here's What We'll Explore: Why I decided to create an AI-powered content brand and how it reflects the why not mindset. How AI can help us work smarter, faster, and more creatively instead of being something to fear. A personal story of how I started playing with AI tools, overcame my skepticism, and found them fun and inspiring. Common myths about AI, including why it's not replacing jobs but transforming how we work. The vision for Creative Horizons: making content creation simple and stress-free while keeping your unique brand voice. Key Takeaway: AI isn't here to take over; it's here to help. Whether you're ready to experiment or want someone to handle the complexities for you, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. So, why not give this episode a listen? Let's explore the potential of AI and how it can transform creativity for the better. Remember, in a world where people ask “why,” we're here to ask why not? Where you can find my new brand: Instagram: @creative_horizons_content LinkedIn If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ @stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠⁠⁠ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠⁠⁠

Do you ever check in with your body? Sure there's apps for everthing but do you actually know how you FEEL? In this episode, I sit down with Celine Nelli, a nutritional therapist who specialises in female health from puberty to menopause. Celine's passion lies in helping women reconnect with their bodies, something many of us have lost touch with in today's world.

Welcome to the first episode of 2025—how did that happen already? As I sat down to record this, I thought back to coming home from the holidays. My first instinct was to dive straight back into everything, but instead, I decided to take my time. I focused on smaller, manageable steps to ease myself back into a routine, and honestly, it made all the difference. This is a lot like the typical New Year's resolutions we hear about. People often try to do everything all at once—a full life reset—and it can quickly lead to overwhelm and burnout. So instead of diving headfirst into a complete overhaul (there's the word!), why not take a step back? Start with the easy wins, the little things that build momentum and help you find your rhythm. Another thing I touch on in this episode is how much of an impact social media can have on your mindset. If your feed is full of posts that leave you feeling bad about yourself, don't be afraid to mute or unfollow. Why would you want to upset yourself more? Protect your energy and focus on what feels good for you. At the heart of all this is the question: what do you really want? I encourage you to ask yourself “why” five times to dig into the real reason behind your goals. Be honest with yourself. Sometimes, you already know what to do, but fear holds you back. If you find yourself coming back to the same desire again and again, that's your sign—you really want it. Go for it. Take the leap and see what happens. Finally, as we start this new year, I'd love your help. If you have ideas for guests or if you'd like to join me for a chat, please reach out. I'm keen to speak to as many people as possible who live by the “why not?” mantra. Let's make 2025 a year of saying yes to the things we truly want. Thanks for listening—here's to a brilliant start to the year! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram:⁠⁠ @stronginthesaddle_⁠⁠ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle ⁠⁠FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF⁠⁠ ⁠⁠FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠www.chrissyhawkins.com⁠

Where did the year go? I can't believe this is my final episode of 2024! In this episode, I take some time to reflect on what I've learned this year – and hopefully, it might help some of you too. At the start of the year, my whole world was turned upside down when my relationship ended. I was already in a tough place mentally, and to be honest, I thought it might tip me over the edge. But in the middle of it all, I was forced to change how I approached things – and now, looking back, I'm truly grateful for it. In this episode, I share: How starting therapy helped me learn to process my emotions instead of pushing them down. The value of enjoying my own company and learning not to cling to friendships or people out of fear of being alone. How joining a rugby team pushed me way out of my comfort zone, both physically and socially – something I never would have done if life had stayed the same. The importance of accepting the natural ups and downs of emotions instead of fighting against them, and how asking why I feel a certain way has been a game-changer. This year taught me so much about myself, and while it wasn't easy, I'm coming out of it stronger and more hopeful for 2025. If you're struggling right now, I hope this episode helps you feel a little less alone. Thanks so much for listening and for being here with me throughout 2024 – I'm excited to see where next year takes us. Here's to more growth, more lessons, and more looking after ourselves in 2025. Happy New Year!

Have you ever found yourself wondering, when does this get easier? For many new and "new again" mothers, the journey into motherhood can feel overwhelming, and the support they need isn't always obvious. In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Marci Carroll, who specialises in guiding mothers through the transformative experience of becoming a parent. Marci shares her personal story of initially pursuing a "safe" career as a teacher before following her first passion for psychology. She opens up about her own struggles during early motherhood, from sleepless nights to Googling questions she never thought she'd have to ask. Marci explains how having her therapist, who welcomed her baby into sessions, made a world of difference. We dive into the often-overlooked challenges of motherhood, including: How so much focus is placed on the baby while the mother's needs are sidelined. The physical toll of pregnancy and childbirth, and why it's rarely discussed. The immense identity shift of becoming a mother—something we should prepare for but rarely do. The term “matrescence,” describing the profound changes mothers go through, and why it deserves wider recognition. Marci also touches on the shame many mothers feel when asking for help, and the impossible standards social media can set. We discuss the gaps in our healthcare system and how financial barriers leave too many mothers unsupported. We close with practical advice for mothers who might not have access to mental health services, reminding them of the importance of self-investment alongside caring for their baby. Plus, Marci shares a simple but powerful piece of advice we could all benefit from. If you want to find out more about Marci you can find her here: Instagram: @motherhoodmatters_withmarci Website: https://www.marcicarrollpsychotherapy.ie/

Do you ever check in with your body? In today's episode, I'm joined by the amazing Ana Stefan, a Wellbeing Coach who helps busy, introverted women build habits that truly stick. Fun fact: I recently appeared on Ana's podcast, Uplift, so it's been really cool to swap sides this time! (You can check out that episode here.) Ana's journey into wellbeing coaching began with her own struggles with back pain caused by her work environment. This led her to explore how the body works and how we can support it better. She eventually trained as a yoga teacher and began offering free classes at her office. That's when she realised her passion for teaching and made the leap to do it full-time—just before the pandemic hit. In this episode, Ana shares what it was like to adapt quickly during that time and how working for herself requires discipline but feels less like “work” when it's something you love. How Ana tailors her approach to meet each client's unique needs, using tools like breathwork, movement techniques, and body-positive language. The power of small changes, like meditating with your morning coffee (yes, it's that simple!). How to introduce wellbeing practices to people who might be sceptical. The importance of setting boundaries with clients while building meaningful relationships. Differences between men and women in how they approach body issues—and how sports are helping men embrace new methods of healing. Why sometimes doing things we don't enjoy can actually benefit us in the long run. We also touch on therapy, yoga styles, and how they can support different people in unique ways. Ana wraps up the episode with an inspiring piece of advice that's worth sticking around for! Follow Ana and her work here: Instagram: @anastefancoaching Website: https://www.anastefan.ie/ If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle FREE Happy Hips for horseriding PDF FREE Supple Shoulders for the Saddle PDF Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com

What is Quality by Design? In this episode, we chat with Emily Fletcher, a regulatory affairs consultant in biopharma and a sport horse breeder! We kick things off with a deep dive into what exactly a regulatory affairs consultant does, before shifting gears to talk all things horse breeding. Emily shares her journey of taking up horse riding after moving to Ireland, and how, even after having kids and thinking she'd slow down, she couldn't resist getting back in the saddle. With fields right outside her door, getting back into horses was just too tempting! We also have a laugh about the things we used to do in riding lessons and how, thanks to health and safety, a lot of those activities would probably be a no-go today. We then chat about the horses Emily's bred—many of which are still young but already making waves in Europe, Australia, and the USA. Emily explains what it really means to have a horse with “blood,” and how for her, it's more about their movement and attitude than the percentage of thoroughbred in them. Emily also shares her thoughts on modern training methods, when to start with young horses, and how to bring them on the right way. We even get into a bit of pharma talk with the concept of “quality by design,” which Emily says can be applied to almost any goal in life—whether in the lab or with your horse. We round things off with a discussion about AI in the equine industry and why, in Emily's eyes, it's not just horses that are slow to adapt to new tech. She has some really great advice on embracing technology, even if it feels a bit intimidating at first. Finally, Emily leaves us with a piece of simple yet perfect advice to take away. Follow Emily on Instagram: Personal Page: @Emily.fletcher.1 Horse Breeding Page: @virtuososporthorses If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com

You've all heard me mention rider fitness right? Well I'm not the only person talking about it Today I speak to Katie Parry-Evans, owner of Gym Pony all about just that She speaks about her own background with horses and how fitness work has helped her not only improve how she rides but also prevent injury as she is hypermobile The importance that training has when it comes to mental health and how creating a community within the gym is integral to this Transferable skills between not only fitness work and riding but also owning a restaurant and running fitness classes The differences between the different disciplines in riding in terms of how advanced they are but also how divided they are But also how we can learn from each other as Katie herself has coaches from different background When it comes to training we speak about unilateral work and how that can be so beneficial for equestrians in particular We also talk about some of the clients that she worked with and the changes that she had seen them make in such short periods of time just by committing to some simple changes for themselves We then speak about how to create a welcoming environment in the gym and if you are nervous about joining try out one that is smaller Katie also has a great piece of advice at the end of the episode which is sweet and simple If you would like to find Katie Instagram: @gym.pony @katieparryevans If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Have you ever wanted to make a bold move? Or maybe you want to change something in your life? But you feel like something is holding you back... That something could be your own self-believe Today I welcome back a previous guest to my podcast. You may remember Vicky Shilling from episode #51 Starting Your Wellness Business with Wellness Buisness Mentor @vicky.shilling Well, a lot has changed since that episode. These changes include Vicky, writing and releasing a book, having two children and pivoting her own business. A bit about Vicky: Vicky Shilling is a Self-Belief Business Coach, helping solopreneurs stuck in procrastination make mindset shifts so their work can have impact. She loves honest chat about self-doubt, the true feelings and emotions of running your business and sharing tips and tools to help solo business owners befriend their inner protector while taking bold steps to do the work they love. Today we speak about how important self beliefs is and how she started to notice through mentoring wellness business owners the same theme kept turning up in different ways Deciding to pivot and really focus on self-belief coaching and the difficult decisions that came with it How Motherhood and running your own business can impact each other She also talks quite honestly about the difficulties but also the freedom having her own business brings to her and her family We speak about the different self-doubt archetypes and how they affect how people react to things We spoke a lot about the pressures some mums feel to show up a certain way and how whatever works for you is what is right That sometimes we just need to stop and look at how far we have come The Irish love for begrudgery and that we shouldn't worry about anyone's opinion if they aren't your ideal client She finishes off with some great advice for those who are feeling like they are stuck in a state of self-doubt paralysis and how they can get out of it  If you want to find Vicky: Instagram: @vicky.shilling www.vickyshilling.com The self-doubt archetype quiz is Sas Petherick's here: https://selfbelief.school/archetypes/   My Paralysis to Progress worksheet and audio guide are here: https://vickyshilling.podia.com/paralysis-progress-audio-guide-worksheet If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Have you stayed in a line of work or felt forced to do something because you've spent time and effort doing it? Many people fall for what is known as the "sunk cost fallacy" and spend too much time on something they don't enjoy because they feel like they have to after Today I talk to Aoife Smith, a Psychotherapist who works with vets and vet nurses Aoife spent years in college herself training to be a veterinary nurse but by the end of the degree she knew that it was something that she didn't want to do She had done a Psychology module as part of her degree and adter some times out she decided to go back to do a Hdip in this area We speak about how some may think of this as a waste but she sees all the experiences, both good and bad as valuable contributors to how she works now About emotional maturity and how it's not necessarily determined by age Understanding that as a therapist you are also still human and how important it is to have your own therapists and clinical supervisors to make sure you operate in the most ethical way possible with your patients We also speak about grief and how there is no real timeline for when it will improve but people put so much pressure on themselves to be "ok" with the grief She highlights the many different things that can make you feel like your having a bad day and how none of this makes you a bad person We do focus on female health and how understanding your cycle can help so many areas in your life About her own journey with endometriosis and how difficult it is to get diagnosed here with it We then move to the mental health crisis in veterinary medicine and how the disconnect between animal owners and vet staff can often cause tension Most notably that vet nurses are highly trained medical staff not just people who take your animal in when you leave them in for care Issues within vet practices are another factor causing many people to leave the industry The importance that veterinary staff take time to check in with themselves before it too late and they're burned out Aoife also has a beautifully simple piece of advice that her grandad used to say at the end which I think everyone would love to hear If you want to find out more about working with Aoife you can find her Instagram: @athenasmindtherapy If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

This weeks episode is a little bit different. I hosted a masterclass on Equestrian fitness and I decided to take the audio from the masterclass and turn it into a podcast! Masterclass Description: In this masterclass, I'm sharing the audio from my free "Get Stronger in the Saddle with this Strength Training Method" session! I dive deep into why strength and conditioning off the horse is a game-changer for riders. Riding is a full-body workout that requires much more than just time in the saddle—core stability, leg strength, grip strength, and cardiovascular fitness are all essential. If you've been thinking that just riding, yoga, or Pilates will cover all your needs, this masterclass will explain why off-horse training is key to unlocking your full potential as a rider. I break down how you can develop the specific muscles that improve balance, control, and confidence in the saddle, as well as the importance of mobility work for preventing injury. Whether you're an amateur rider looking to feel more secure or a more advanced rider aiming to enhance performance, this masterclass provides the tools and strategies to elevate your riding fitness. In This Masterclass, I Cover: The Physical Demands of Horse Riding: Riding is an active, full-body workout. I explain how core strength helps with balance, leg strength keeps you stable, grip strength aids in control, and cardiovascular fitness improves endurance. 2. Why Strength and Mobility Training Off the Horse Is Essential: The benefits of strength training for injury prevention, improving muscle balance, and enhancing body control. How mobility work improves flexibility, allowing you to move more fluidly with your horse and reduce stiffness. 4. Why Riding Alone Won't Make You Riding Fit: Riding by itself can create muscle imbalances or overuse injuries. I explain why a strength and conditioning routine will enhance your riding, help you recover faster, and make you feel more secure in the saddle. 5. How to Get Started with Equestrian Strength Training: I provide an overview of key muscle groups to focus on and how these exercises will help you feel more confident and in control during every ride. I've even got a sneakly little offer only available to those who join the masterclass or listen to this episode! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6

One thing that seems to be a common issue with equestrians is their confidence Today I speak to Kimberly Dunn of Idle Wild Horsemanship and Mindset coaching all about this topic Having started horse riding "late" in life at 17 Kimberly always felt like she was "behind" when it came to riding or her skills She speaks about how she never really felt like she fit into the equestrian world until she found western riding She goes on to explain all the different disciplines that are in Western riding (it's not just barrel racing like I thought!) and the level of training that goes into Quarter Horses This took her working all around the world and one thing she kept noticing was riders having mindset and confidence issues When she returned to the UK and started working on her own mindset as she was trying to launch her own business she started to see all of the possibilities for applying this to equestrians We talk about the similarities in the Western Community and the Equestrian Communities we would have over in Europe some good some not so good Kimberly works with people across all disciplines in her business as one thing they all have in common is confidence issues We then go on to talk about social media and how it can be both good and bad but you have to be mindful about how you use it About how she works with clients and how she can slowly bring in the "woo" We finish off talking about the joy it brings her when she sees her clients turn a corner and really start enjoying their horses again and you can really hear the excitement as she speaks about it Kimberly also has some really good advice at the end of the podcast for those who are struggling with confidence If you want to find out more about working with Kimberly you can find her: Website: https://www.idyllwildhorsemanship.com/ Instagram: @thehorsemanshipandmindsetcoach The Enlightened Equestrian Podcast If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

When you're working towards something do you ever hit a bump in the and feel like you're back to square one? But are you ACTUALLY back to square one? In this episode, I'm talking about why checking in with yourself is so important when you're on a diet or training plan. Instead of just pushing through every challenge, it's about understanding how there are many factors that can affect performance in any area of life How once we take some time to check on ourselves we can treat ourselves with more self-compassion and less self-criticism. How awareness is the key and without awareness you can't make lasting change I also give a few tips on how you can bring more awareness to yourself and how you're feeling each day If you have any tips I would love to hear them too! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

The fitness industry is a thriving industry.. it's believed that it is worth over $130 Billion! But has the fitness industry actually been helping or has it hurting your health? In this episode, I speak about 4 major ways the fitness industry has been doing more harm than good, and how it's affecting your fitness journey. Firstly I speak about the obsession with quick fixes that has led to extreme diets and rapid weight loss programs, promoting unsustainable habits that can cause long-term damage. The danger of one-size-fits-all fitness plans is that they often ignore individual needs, leading to injury, burnout, and frustration. How unrealistic body ideals constantly promoted by the industry fuel body image issues, low self-esteem, and unhealthy practices. And finaly the industry also overcomplicates health and fitness with endless gadgets, supplements, and trends, making it feel overwhelming and out of reach for many. I mentioned a previous episode about body dysmorphia and you can find it here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5RQuGYmmKwSpPjPdwC9jfc?si=5b60726d896f423a Let me know your thoughts on the fitness industry, I'd love to start a conversation about it! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

*trigger warning talks of mental health and suicidal ideation* Do you ever feel stuck? A bit listless? Or maybe you feel like you're just floating through life on autopilot? Maybe you want to change that but just don't know how. Today I speak to Sonya McAleer, a Confidence coach who found herself in this exact situation We speak about her journey and how working as an equestrian coach the thing she would notice that people struggled with most was their confidence How we don't realise how strong and resilient we are as equestrians We speak about mental blocks and how even those who look like they've everything together have them too She speaks about her own experience with mental health and through really looking at herself and questioning herself she was able to come out the other side of a dark time About how throwing some grenades into her life was the only way to move towards the life she wants to live We also speak about alcohol and what it's like when you don't drink (Sonya gave up drinking alcohol a year ago) The role of alcohol and how we use it as a way to keep ourselves small We go on to speak about the importance of liking yourself as you are your number one priority Sonya finishes by reminding people to ask themselves the tough questions, it may not be fun, and you may not like the answers but you need to ask the questions To find out more about working with Sonya you can find her: Instagram: @innerbalance_sonya Website (not yet live at the time of recording): www.sonyamcaleer.co.uk Podcast: Set your Soul on Fire Podcast If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

*Trigger warning Talks of mental health and suicide* Today's episode took me two attempts to record! I can't even blame technology for it either as I actually deleted the first recording myself! In today's episode I wanted to discuss how I recently hit 10k followers on Instagram and what that really means And the thing is... it doesn't mean a lot... it's just a number I speak about how before I would have equated my self-worth to things like likes or followers The tendency to think these numbers will change your life How it's not really a lot in the grand scheme of social media following That it's been a long journey to detach myself from these feelings I then speak about world suicide prevention day which is the day this episode goes out The guilt you can feel if you don't think "you have real problems" when you suffer from mental health The importance of reaching out to people if you are feeling this way and that as much as friends and family mean well sometimes you need a professional Checking in on friends and family when you haven't heard from them or even if you have just letting them know you're thinking about them Contacting charities who help people with mental health if you don't feel like you have anyone close to you I then come back to the 10k (did I mention I've 10k followers?) and things that I find will help if you are looking to grow your social media presence these are all also applicable to many areas of life. I finish by reminding people that you do matter and life is better with you in it. This is an article containing 8 Irish Mental Health Charities if you need help: https://www.joe.ie/life-style/7-irish-charity-organisations-that-can-help-you-if-you-are-suffering-from-mental-health-problems-542173 Where I do therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/ Equitas article: https://www.equitas.ie/coming-back-from-the-edge-is-possible/ If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Did you miss me? I am back recording after my summer break and ready to get rocking with Why Not? I am starting with a solo episode and in the episode I am honest about why that is. Today I went with no script, no plan just me and the mic. I speak about taking responsibility for your actions and how making excuses is only really to make yourself feel better The importance of showing up for not only others but also yourself Knowing how to balance action and rest when it comes to your own mental health I also talk about processing your emotions and how that can change everything for you But none of this is really possible without being self-aware.. when you are in a tough place ask yourself questions as it can really get you out of that loop of despair I want to say as well that I am not a therapist and I've learned a lot of this from going to therapy sometimes the simplest question can change your mindset on something completely Maybe some of the things I speak out in this podcast will work for you and maybe they won't I'd also love to hear some of your tools for managing mental health And remember the bad times will pass so do not beat yourself up for having a tough time Hopefully, this episode made sense too as it was a bit of a ramble from my end! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Let's be honest, goal setting is easy It's goal achieving that's the really tough thing to do That's why in today's episode I talk about 3 things that I think are so important if you want to achieve your goals This can be your health and fitness, In business or just in life Now I'll be the first to admit that I am still learning how to do this.. It is not easy I think as well that many of us may have it in one area of our lives but not others Firstly I speak about Patience and how it's not just about waiting it's about being able to accept that things will take time while working towards your goals I then talk about making tough decisions, anyone who you see as successful is constantly making tough decisions This can be as seemingly small as skipping a night out in order to save money to as big as missing family events to work on a big project We all know the saying "Nothing grows in the comfort zone" and we need to be able to make those uncomfortable decisions in order to grow But both of these really ties into my final point which is how imperative it is to be able to delay gratification Because we live in this instant world we expect everything to be that way and the fact is that is just not true When working towards something there will be many bumps in the road, many setbacks and it will always take longer than you think it will Being able to look towards the greater goal instead of being distracted by these short-term setbacks creates resilience and discipline which are needed to achieve anything worth having Just a little heads up for listeners that this is the last episode until the start of September but I will be resharing some from the vault episodes over the next few weeks to keep you all going until the podcast returns! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Let's be honest when it comes to social media it's hard for us NOT to compare ourselves to other people But at what point does it become a problem? Admittedly I was inspired to do this topic by another podcast.. the topic really resonated with me as I myself am not immune to a bit of social media comparison I talk about my own experience with social media and how some things don't bother me and others really cut deep That this can affect women way more and why How curating your feed may not be the answer to this issue That we need to remember that some of these social media stars work damn hard to even get to a point where you are comparing yourself to them The negative effects it can have on your mental health and that if it is starting to really affect you you may need to go see a professional to help deal with it I do like to mention that there are plenty of positives to social media so it's not all doom and gloom, just don't let it take over your life I'd also love to hear your experiences and how you handle social media comparison Where I do therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/ If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Do you set fitness goals? This is something that has been running (pardon the pun) around my head since my half marathon the other day As I've said before I wouldn't say I like running.. but I want to do it because it's both a physical and mental challenge for me But having the goal of being able to complete the Achill half marathon was the thing that kept me going when I didn't want to train But goals don't have to be about running... I speak about how goals can be anything but they have to be specific How motivation comes and goes but it's those little wins that keep you on track It's important that you set your goals for the right reasons and it's ok not to want to do something I also speak about celebrating the little wins and how it's important that you don't let other people's achievements take away from your own That it's ok to keep your goals secret until you're ready to share them I finish by speaking about how important it can be to have a friend or a coach to help you achieve your goals it can make it easier to stay accountable but it can also be fun! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

I've hummed and hawed about doing a podcast on this topic as I am by no means an expert in mental health... I can only speak about my own experiences So with that in mind this is me sharing my own thoughts on my own journey, especially over the last year... I just hit record and went so it may be a little chaotic (like myself) I speak about the guilt of feeling like you don't have "bad enough! problems in your life to be feeling how you do How healing is a journey and things don't go away you just learn to handle them better so you shouldn't beat yourself up when you have a bad day Therapy and how much of a difference it made to my life And maybe the most important thing... if you are struggling don't feel like you are a burden by reaching out it could make all the difference Also if you need someone to talk to don't be afraid to reach out to me even if you feel like it's nothing.. It's something to you Where I do therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/ Equitas article: https://www.equitas.ie/coming-back-from-the-edge-is-possible/ If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Something that I've noticed a lot recently in the gym is that people seem to think that I don't take rest days and this is far from the truth so today I talk about why they are important Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, it's important to understand that rest is just as vital as the workout itself. First, I talk about why rest days are essential. When we exercise, especially during intense workouts, we create tiny tears in our muscle fibers. and that without adequate rest, our muscles don't have the opportunity to heal, which can lead to overuse injuries, fatigue, and even burnout. I speak about how Rest days help to balance the production of cortisol, Intense training can spike cortisol levels, leading to muscle breakdown and a weakened immune system. Rest is important for regulating cortisol So, how do you know when to take a rest day? It's all about listening to your body. I speak about common signs that you might need a rest day It's important to remember that rest doesn't mean you have to be completely inactive. You can get out about moving just make sure it's gentle Rest isn't just physical. It's a time to recharge mentally as well. Taking a step back can often lead to greater motivation and focus when you return to your workouts. I really wanted to highlight that rest days are not a sign of weakness or lack of commitment. They are a crucial component of any effective training program. By incorporating regular rest days, you'll enhance your performance, prevent injuries, and stay motivated on your fitness journey. If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

It's easy to think that you can just do everything solo but the truth is.. We all need some help sometimes! Today I talk about the importance of having a support system not just for the bad times but for the good times too I first talk about reasons that you need to have a support system These include emotional well-being... no matter how introverted you are humans are social creatures and need to connection Accountability and motivation to stick to your goals when times get tough Getting different perspectives on problems and being able to work on them together And possibly the most important... Sharing the load of life's stresses I then go on to explain how we can cultivate and grow our support systems but also highlight that it is a two-way street and you need to be there for each other and work on these relationships I did want to end on a bit of a serious note and encourage anybody out there who may be in need of help to reach out to people Do not worry if you have been distancing yourself from them and don't feel embarrassed about looking for help It could make all the difference If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Is there something that you just can't get right with your horse? Today I speak to Emma McCauley owner of Sparrow Equestrian also a bit of an equine encyclopedia We speak about how she was always involved with horses despite not being from a horsey background Deciding to make the jump from a corporate "safe" job to follow her dream of working with horses full-time The importance of people around you giving you unwavering support during the tough times We discuss how she works with clients from assessing all areas from rider to horse The training scale and how each part of it can affect the horse's movement That horses do not plot against us and they aren't out to get you, if something is wrong it's not because they are being deliberately bold The importance of taking videos to be able to see the progress that you've made That most horses don't need high-percentage feeds and this can cause more issues than good The prevalence of quick fixes and that equestrians need to be patient and go back to basics before just buying training aids as they are often misused Flatwork is the foundation and more emphasis needs to be put on that over jumping That we need to accept that perfection is not possible with horses and we need to stop putting so much pressure on ourselves and the horses and enjoy our time with them Emma also lets us know what she has coming up this year including some riding club clinics in Emerald Equestrian and lots more exciting things so keep an eye on her page Emma has some great advice at the end of the podcast including not being afraid to ask for help If you'd like to find out more about working with Emma you'll get her: Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok: @sparrowequestrian If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Do you feel like your mind is always going? Maybe you feel like you never have a quiet moment, but you don't feel that you have time to slow down. Today I speak with Kendall Platt, the Mindful Gardening Coach.  She helps women take time out of their busy lives to quieten their minds whilst creating a garden that sets their heart on fire and creating with the flowers that they grow. Coming from a background in forensics Kendall found herself constantly working and pushing herself until she ended up in burnout one thing that helped her come back to herself and quiet her mind was her garden and she wanted to bring this to other women We speak about the constant need people feel to keep producing and never focus on giving time to themselves That the transactional nature of life makes us feel like we don't deserve to take time for ourselves unless we have "earned" it but we shouldn't have to delay our happiness We also speak about being ADHD and being diagnosed at 36 and how it explained so much for her but also brought a lot of sadness for her The challenges she has faced when it comes to family members really understanding the condition and not only family but wider society as well We discuss common misconceptions about ADHD and how you can be incredibly successful when you know how to work with your brain instead of trying to force yourself to do things the neurotypical way She then speaks about the education system and how it leaves no room for creativity and how it's important to allow yourself to follow your intuition and create spaces that make you happy How she describes her mindful garden revolution as a way for women to take some power back for themselves and embrace their quirks instead of sitting down, staying quiet and behaving We also talk about how important it is to schedule time for yourself even if it's just 5-10 minutes Getting a friend involved can make doing your garden a social experience too as well as provide you with some accountability The fear people have of trying something new as making mistakes are vilified but making mistakes is human You need to be able to express yourself and how businesses and governments do not like this The importance of using your voice if you want to see change The toxic mentality of "well if I had to you should" and how no change can really be made if you with this line of thought Kendall has a great piece of advice at the end of the podcast for those who don't see their own power If you want to follow Kendall or find out more about working with her: Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendallmarieplatt/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adventureswithflowers Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendall-marie-platt/ Website:  https://www.adventureswithflowers.com/ Key products/services Create your dream garden Garden Inspiration session Free and paid-for resources Come and read the Seed my publication on Substack. If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Something that I often hear from people that I meet when I say that I am a personal training is "oh I'm not fit" But fitness takes very many forms Today I wanted to talk about misconceptions I regularly come across when it comes to "fitness" or "gym work" I talk about how the extreme is what sells on the internet but often it puts off normal people as they think that they need to do this to make any progress I speak about running is not necessary if it is not conducive to your goal Pilates is not the holy grail for equestrian fitness The numerous daily benefits that come from becoming stronger and fitter that people forget The importance of keeping active as you age and how it will affect your quality of life if you don't And most importantly: It's normal to be bad at something when you start and find it difficult so don't be so hard on yourself if you do find it tough! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

What does it take to not only compete in but win the public vote in the Grassroots Rider Academy? Well, today I speak to Megan Norton who did just that. We start by talking about how she got into horses and despite her mother's protests once she got a taste for Equestrianism she was hooked How the "get back up the horse mentality" has helped her in every area of her life That even though she only had Timmy a short amount of time she decided to give applying for The Grassroots Rider Academy a go The difference she noticed while competing in the academy to competing at shows and how supportive everyone was The importance of having a support system around you who can help you when you need it, even if you don't want to admit it We then talk about the heartbreak of not being able to breed from her first Horse Hattie and how it was like a loss of her own when she couldn't get in foal How Megan really fell out of love with riding but getting Timmy changed it all We come back to the Rider Academy and what it was like being interviewed and the difference she found from the start of the journey to where she is now How life has changed for her since the Rider Academy and the drive she gets now people are acknowledging all the work she puts in That she still gets negative comments here and there but if they aren't doing better than her she ignores them We finish by speaking about what Megan plans for the future and even though she had had some setbacks shes making the most of all the time she has If you want to keep up with Megan you can find her: Instagram: @lifeonmegsrein Facebook: Megan Norton If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

To be a vet you need to become very good at communicating... especially as your patients can't talk! Today I speak with Tommy Heffernan @tommythevet who is a veterinary consultant who primarily works with precision microbes right now We speak about what led him to become a vet and eventually step away of his own practice to set up his consultancy firm The emotions involved and struggles that came with leaving a "stable" job to go out on your own and how he dealt with them The pressure that comes with working as a vet but the resilience that it builds inside of you at the same time and how that can be applied to other areas of life The importance of having a group of friends who understand what you are going through We talk about how the field of communication and how media work helped him fall back in love with the Veterinary How it has taken 15 years of practice to get to the level he is now and how important it is to be passionate about your work We also speak about the different levels of communication and how humans and animals aren't that different when it comes to how we communicate both verbally and non-verbally We then move on to how his communication work brought him to work with the company Precision Microbes which are a liquid pre and postbiotic for animals How he was initially sceptical when they contacted him but has seen amazing results with the trial groups which really excited him and convinced him to come on board He does clarify that supplements are only a piece of the puzzle and not the magic pill that people hope it to be We then speak about the move towards biological interventions and how there may be a need to look towards this over the traditional chemical interventions That you need to always be open to learning and it's not only ok but better if you change your opinion from time to time We then speak about comparison and some of the dangers of social media when it comes to this We finish off by talking about what Tommy is most excited for in the future and how he feels that they are just at the start of this journey with Precision Microbes If you want to find out more about Tommy you can find him: Instagram: @tommythevet Email: tommythevetie@gmail.com Website: https://tommythevet.ie/ Precision Microbes: @precison_microbes If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

We know horse riding can be a risky sport but what if you have a condition that makes injury even easier than usual? Today I speak to Vicki Hoben who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and also dystonia. We speak about the syndrome and how it affects her daily life and how horse riding has been a massive help in managing that condition The joy that horses have brought Vicki over the years How Vicky never wants to stop and a big reason that she refuses to stop We then speak about the process of getting diagnosed and how difficult it is to get diagnosed and that many people are misdiagnosed with other conditions We also talk about neurodivergence and the difference just knowing can make to your mental health She also talks about the importance of having different people around you, ones who will be kind to you in difficult times and those who will give you a kick on She then speaks about the different classifications for para-riding and how her recent diagnosis of dystonia changes her classification Vicki also speaks openly about the toll these conditions can take on your mental health and how harmful it can be to refer to someone as "not disabled enough" This has lit a fire in her belly to stand up and fight for all disabled people so they have a voice and are not held back from anything Vicki recommends these societies to help when you are looking to get diagnosed: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/ https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/what-is-eds/ We then talk about Vicki's future plans and she has an amazing piece of advice at the end for you all If you want to keep up with Vicki, you can find her: Instagram: @vickihobanparaequestrian If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Do you need to grow up on horses in order to make it your career? Today I speak to former jockey and Grassroots Gazette racing correspondent James Brennan about just that We speak about how his dad bringing him to Tramore races at age 15 ignited a passion in him for racing How despite having no background in riding he decided he wanted to be a jockey This led him to apply to and attend RACE and after completing that course he went to work with Emmanuel Hughes whom he had done work through the course We speak about the importance of having people like Emmanuel around him when he was learning the ropes About the things that people don't realise that jockeys do when riding And that top-level jockeys will always help the younger jockeys too as they've been there themselves and want to see them all do well We also speak about the grooms and their love for the horses that they look after and the pride they have no matter what place it finishes James then talks about transitioning out of life as a jockey but the bug never really leaves you which was what brought him into contact with The Grassroots Gazette The buzz of seeing content you created online and people interacting with it We finish off by speaking about what James is planning for the future including some exciting plans If you're looking to keep up with James you can find him: Instagram: @from_the_horses_mouth_racing_ And also he features regularly on The Grassroots Gazette If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

What does it take to become a central figure of Europe's fastest growing online Equine media brand? Today I talk to Gary Monahan, Community manager of the Grassroots Gazette and Host of Series One of "The Grassroots Rider Academy" We talk about how he came to be a part of the Grassroots Gazette team and his journey within the organisation The importance of having the right people around you Where the idea of The Grassroots Rider Academy came from and why it and platforms like the Grassroots Gazette are so important to amateur riders We talk about mindset and how it is something that amateurs really struggle with How that we never really give ourselves credit for how well we've done We also talk about how Gary got into horses and how he found a way to ride different horses growing up How after a small break from horses, one show had him right back at it again and how equestrians are just a different breed We also speak about how equestrians' love for horses can actually affect us negatively sometimes because we are so focused on ourselves that we often forget to look after ourselves Gary also speaks about how equine sports can be isolating and that it would be great to see more team events to get people together more instead of against each other Gary predominantly events and we talk about what drew him to eventing and what changes he would like to see in the industry We discuss social media and the effects it has on the industry both good and bad That you need to enjoy your time with your horse instead of dwelling on the one bad thing that happens when you're competing We also discuss Gary's plans for the coming year both in and out of the saddle Gary also has a cracking piece of advice at the end of the podcast that everyone needs to hear If you're looking to keep up with Gary you can find him: Instagram: @gar.monahan You'll find him over on The Grassroots Gazette: @thegrassrootsgazette If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Today we welcome Muireann O'Toole Brennan who is co-founder and CMO of Equitas to the Podcast Muireann comes in hot with some exclusive news on something that will be happening soon on Equitas! We then talk about how she started writing for The Grassroots Gazette and how wanting to combine her degree in journalism with horses brought her being a leader within Equitas We talk about what Equitas means to her and the impact it has had not only on the women in the equine industry but also on her We talk about how working with horses can become very isolating and lonely and this is why having a platform like this is so important That 73% of the industry is made of women so having a community like this was needed We then talk about Muireann herself and how she got into horses a love that never left her Of course we talk about her own horses including a heartwarming story about her first pony June How her parents were so supportive with whatever they wanted to do once they were willing to put in the work and that instilled a strong work ethic in them We also talk about when she became a cofounder and that she actually thought she was about to be fired, but you can hear in the way she speaks about Equitas she's in the right place We talk about how tough the industry is and how things are starting to change and it's starting to be acknowledged within the governing bodies to support staff We also touch on racing and the rep it has and Muirreann dispels some of the myths about it, the most common one being that horses are just thrown on the scrap heap if they don't make it We then speak about her horse Theo and how they are retrained when she gets a racehorse starting with giving them a good bit of time off That it's a slow process but you will get what you put into the horse How sometimes you just need someone to back you to help you believe in yourself If you are looking to keep up with Muireann you will find her on: Instagram: @lifeaftertheyard And Theo has his own Instagram: @lifewiththeo If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

When you see a piece of content on social media do you ever think about how its made? Well today I speak to content creator Carly Sterling just about that We talk about her love of horses and the danger of turning your passion into your job About how she came to work in content creation and being able to combine it with her love of horses The importance of getting on with who you work with and having someone who pushes you to go to the next level The things that you can find on the internet and not letting the fact you don't have a degree hold you back We also talk about the Grassroots Rider Academy and how it was such a learning experience in so many aspects Being the first official staff member of The Grassroots Gazette and what that was like and the confidence boost it gave her Working in media and how it is always changing which makes it so exciting We also spoke about her horse Nova and what it was like bringing her on, having had her from 6 months old and the many ups and downs that came with it The dangers of social media and comparing yourself to others highlight reels Not putting too much pressure on yourself and acknowledging the little wins and the mindset that is needed to make decisions based on the bigger picture instead of the end goal The crossover with horses and content creation and how they can be used to help each other We also talk about what Carly is most excited for in the coming year and we finish we a stellar peice of advice from Carly If you want to keep up with Carly you'll find her: Instagram: @cs_equine And you'll find some of her awesome content on @thegrassrootsgazette If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Do you ever think about your relationship with food? How would you class it? Today I speak to nutritional therapist and body image coach Linn Thornsonson all about that We talk about her own story and how her journey led her to a career and realising that it's a common theme with people How the scale shouldn't cause an emotional reaction and if it does it might be better just to stay away from it That its completely normal for our bodies to change over time but it's important to acknowledge how something not fitting makes you feel Linn also talks about how one comment at 16 is what set her down the path of disordered eating We talk about her time in racing yards and the dangerous practices some riders to do make weight And how so little consideration is given to the stable staff or jockeys when making regulations which makes it very difficult to make a livable career out of it Linn speaks about similarities she sees in clients and how no matter the size internalized fatphobia is present about fitness and how to get some movement, you don't have to go to the gym but also the gym shouldn't be a punishment for what you've eaten that social media and filters have us questioning our sense of self We also talk about some things that help the people we work with and the difference having enough food makes to every other part of your life That you don't have a discipline problem you more often have a self-compassion problem Recovery and that it looks different to different people That dieting and calorie deficits literally go against our body's survival instincts Linn has some great advice at the end of the interview If you are interested in working with Linn you can find her: Website: www.straighforwardnutrition.com Instagram: @healing_relationship_with_food Podcast: The Joyful Nourishment Podcast If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Today I speak to Sarah Elebert, She is a co-founder of women's equine media brand, COO of Envious Dresshire and mother too to beautiful girls We talk about Equitas and the need for a brand like it for women in the industry and to bring equity to them That the differences in physiology between men and women need to be acknowledged We talk about the "Why can't we?" campaign and the importance of educating people on how traditional uniforms can push people out of the sport This campaign has led some governing bodies in the equine industry to change the rules on competition and allow dark jodhpurs to be worn We also discuss how the majority of people working and contributing to the industry are women and that that needs acknowledgement We then speak about envious dress hire and how it is more about just hiring out clothes but how style can make you feel That how many similarities she has found in the mindset and confidence of women and how it's affected by what they wear be it at an event or in a competition Sarah also talks about the "envious girl" and how they want them to feel when they wear their pieces That sometimes a style that you wouldn't normally pick for yourself can have you feeling like a boss and having someone like Nicola of Envious can be the difference We then move to motherhood and how Sarah navigates running these two companies while being a mother to two girls who are 2 and under That it is ok to ask for help and people want to help you so make use of it Sarah also has some great advice at the end of the podcast for those who are trying to do it all If you would like learn more about Equitsas or Evnvious you can find them: Equitas: Website: www.equitas.ie Instagram: @equitaseire Envious Dress hire: Instagram: @enviousstylinganddresshire If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

So I wanted to do a little follow-up on the episode I did last week about starting a training programme in January but this time from the perspective of an equestrian looking to start working on their own fitness So here are my tips for Equestrians Firstly I talk about those almost gymnastic-type workouts you see aimed at riders and how they are not necessary for 90% of people That working on cardio is also important Being realistic about the time that you have to train.. it will be less than you think it will The importance of getting a coach when first starting out, just like getting lessons with your horse, if you're a beginner to gym work you will need help too Thinking about how your body is engaging when you are doing jobs around the yard and how that can almost be extra training The difference that strength training can make to muscle tightness, pain and your riding position And that you don't even need to be in a gym to do this type of training That we do everything for our horses but never look after ourselves Make sure that if you have goals that you are making a plan to get there otherwise you will never reach them Want to listen to ep #147? here's the link: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6yrUsDmU1gokF9Z5aB89LU?si=b260b5ab53af4a6e If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

It is the first week of January (kind of), Motivation is high and you are ready to GO! You've probably got a list of things that you are going to do and it's all gonna be sorted by February... So let's slow down for 1 second here... is this something that you do every year? Has it worked? If not I have some advice for you in this episode. First thing I say is to be realistic.. we often overestimate what we can do and get disheartened when we can't actually achieve that That you need to find something that you enjoy so it doesn't become a chore I also touch a bit on nutrition and how just cos a diet worked for someone doesn't mean it will work for you That habits don't change overnight, you need to gradually change them over time You need to be honest with yourself about why you actually want to do it And also digging into why you do what you do which you may need extra help with Possibly the most important one is to stop relying on motivation because motivation will only get you so far... it needs to become a part of your life as motivation will only get you so far Make sure you break down your big goals into smaller goals and celebrate those milestones It's so important to not run yourself into the ground by going too hard when you start a journey like this, it is time for you... remember that! If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6

Christmas season is well and truely in full swing. This can be a stressful time for people, especially regarding food. Today I welcome Sarah Hawkins of F.I.G. Nutrition back to the podcast to speak about the effects this can have and how to manage this We discuss how this time of year food and drink are abundant and how this can be difficult to navigate if you struggle with digestive issues or disordered eating patterns That when you give yourself permission to eat certain foods you will eventually get sick of them Looking a food that you have rules about and where they come from How prevalent undereating still is and the effect this has on our overall health The importance of adding foods into our diets instead of cutting out everything The problem of different holistic professionals giving out advice without having any actual training in nutrition and the damage that it can do We also discuss how if you want to start a certain type of diet you have to be ready to do it forever and if you can't see that as part of your life long-term, it's not for you That success is in the middle ground Sarah also gives some really good advice at the end of the episode for those who are a bit worried about the upcoming madness that everyone can do with If you would like to find out more about working with Sarah, you can find her here: Instagram: @f.i.g._nutrition_ Website: www.fignutrition.ie Email: sarah@fignutrition.ie If you are interested in working with me you can find me : Equestrian Instagram: @stronginthesaddle_ Equestrian Tiktok: @ stronginthesaddle Happy Hips for horseriding PDF: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b4y0n6 Website: www.chrissyhawkins.com Instagram: @chrissyhfitness Want my FREE Kickstarter workout guide? Follow this link! 3 workouts for home or gym: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/v7m8t6