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The Brain Fog Barrier - Coaching Through the Change - Menopause with Lauren Chivers

Feb 16, 2026

You’re in a lesson with a long-term client. Suddenly, they forget a movement they’ve done for years, or their confidence - previously iron-clad-seems to have vanished overnight. Before you question their commitment, ask yourself: are you coaching a rider going through the Menopause transition?

We have previously welcomed Lauren Chivers to the Centre10 community to discuss "Menopause: The Basics" and its profound impact on equestrian performance. Menopause isn't just "hot flushes"; for riders, the most debilitating symptoms are often psychological - anxiety, loss of confidence, and the dreaded "Brain Fog."

Lauren highlighted that falling oestrogen levels directly affect the brain’s ability to manage stress. A rider who was once "brave" may find themselves in a state of hyper-vigilance. As coaches, we need to adapt our pedagogy. The "pushing" techniques that worked five years ago might now trigger a stress response that shuts down learning entirely. 

 

 

  • Coaching Hub Member Exclusive: The Menopause Management Handbook for coaches. This handbook talks about all of the above topics and more in detail with tips and tricks!

  • Learn Lauren’s "7 Top Tips" for signposting and supporting riders through hormonal shifts without overstepping your professional scope.

  • Specialist Content: Access the full session recording with Lauren Chivers in our Resource Library.

Want to learn more? Find out how you can become a Centre10 Advanced Coach and get access to all of our amazing specialist coaches and all of their resources by following the link on the blog home page!

 

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