Colour therapy, also known as chromotherapy, is a form of alternative medicine that uses the visible spectrum of light and colour to promote healing. It is based on the belief that different colours have different effects on the body and can be used to balance energy and improve physical, emotional, and mental well-being. In the context of athletics, colour therapy may be used to help athletes relax and reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, and enhance physical performance.
Colour therapy may be helpful for horse riders in a similar way that it may be helpful for other athletes in general. For example, certain colours may be used to help riders relax and reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, and enhance physical performance. Some specific examples of how different colours may be used to benefit riders include:
It is important to note that the effects of colour therapy can vary from person to person, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may be helpful for riders to experiment with different colours and see which ones they find most helpful.
In addition to using colour therapy as a complementary therapy, riders may also incorporate colour into their horse riding equipment, such as saddle pads, browbands, horse boots, exercise bandages, ear bonnets, and rugs.
Saddle Pads: Saddle pads come in a wide range of colours and patterns, and riders may choose a colour or pattern that matches their horse’s coat or that reflects their personal style. Some riders may select a saddle pad in a coordinating colour to match their other riding equipment, such as their helmet or boots.
Browbands: Crystal browbands are a popular choice for riders looking to add a touch of sparkle and style to their riding equipment. These browbands come in a variety of colours and styles, and riders may pick one that coordinates with their horse’s coat colour or that reflects their personal aesthetic.
Horse Boots: Horse boots come in a range of colours and styles, and riders may decide on a colour that coordinates with their saddle pad or other riding equipment. Some riders may prefer to use boots in a neutral colour, such as black or brown, while others may opt for a bolder colour, such as red or purple.
Exercise Bandages: Exercise bandages are used to provide support and protection to a horse’s legs during training or competition. These bandages come in a variety of colours and patterns, and riders may choose a colour or pattern that coordinates with their other riding equipment.
Ear Bonnets: Ear bonnets are a type of headgear that is worn by horses to help protect their ears from distractions and noise. These bonnets come in a range of colours and patterns, and riders may prefer a colour or pattern that coordinates with their other riding equipment or that reflects their personal style. There are many popular brands including LeMieux Ear Bonnets (my personal favourite is the Loire!), PS of Sweden and so many more.
Rugs: Rugs are used to keep horses warm and protected from the elements, travelling to competition venues in and there are many different types. They come in a wide range of colours and patterns. Riders may pick a rug in a coordinating colour to match their other riding equipment, or they may opt for a bolder colour to make a statement.
Some riders may prefer to coordinate the colours of their riding equipment, such as their saddle pad, boots, and helmet, to create a cohesive look. This is often referred to as a “matchy matchy” style. While there is no right or wrong way to coordinate colours, it can be helpful to consider the overall aesthetic and whether the colours complement each other and the horse’s coat colour. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose colours and equipment that make the rider and horse feel comfortable and confident.
Colour therapy should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based medical treatment or for proper training and safety precautions when riding horses. It may be best to speak with a healthcare professional or equine specialist about the potential benefits and risks of using colour therapy in conjunction with other forms of treatment.
It is also worth noting that iridescent colours, which are colours that display different shades depending on the angle at which they are viewed, may have the ability to change or shift in appearance. While these stunningly beautiful choices could potentially create a sense of movement or dynamism, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of iridescent colours or any specific colour as a treatment for any specific health condition. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional or qualified practitioner about the potential benefits and risks of using colour therapy as a complementary therapy.
