Desire vs Craving

Dear Equestrian Enthusiasts,

As athletes, we all have a strong desire to succeed in our respective sports. This desire is fueled by our passion, dedication, and hard work, and it propels us to achieve our goals. However, sometimes, our desire can turn into a craving - an intense, almost insatiable urge to win or to be the best. And just like in food, it's important to recognize the difference between desire and craving in sports.

Desire is a natural, positive force that comes from a place of passion and purpose. It motivates us to work hard, improve our skills, and perform at our best. This force reflects on our horses in a positive way. When they are allowed to been seen and heard and understood, this produces partnership. 

On the other hand, craving comes from a place of fear and insecurity. It's a negative force that can consume us, and it often leads to unhealthy behaviors and outcomes, often at the expense of our horses. 

In equestrian sports, craving can manifest as an obsessive need to win, to beat our competitors, or to prove something to ourselves or others. This kind of mindset can be detrimental to our performance and can cause us to lose sight of the joy and fulfillment that come with the sport.

Similarly, in the context of food, craving can lead to unhealthy eating habits and overconsumption. When we're driven by emotional triggers such as stress, anxiety, or boredom, we may find ourselves constantly thinking about specific foods and indulging in them excessively, even when we're not hungry.

So how can we tell if we're operating from a place of desire or craving? In sports, pay attention to how you feel. If you're feeling energized, inspired, and focused, you're likely operating from a place of desire. But if you're feeling anxious, stressed, or obsessed, you may be operating from a place of craving. 

In food, pay attention to your hunger cues and emotions before, during, and after eating. If you're eating healthy, nourishing foods and feeling satisfied, you're likely operating from a place of desire. But if you're indulging in unhealthy foods excessively and feeling guilty or ashamed afterward, you may be operating from a place of craving.

Remember, it's essential to have a healthy relationship with both sports and food to be healthy. Let's embrace our passion, work hard, and enjoy the journey while keeping ourselves in check.

Lots of Love

Coach Nina xxx