Can horseback riding improve brain health and longevity? In this Horse Talk episode, Lauren Abbott explores research on riding, neuroplasticity, stress regulation, perimenopause, and wellness for equestrian women 35+.
Horse Talk: Equestrian Women’s Brain Health, Longevity, and a New Community from The Horse Review
Host Lauren Abbott of The Horse Review shares midweek updates on new content testing across print, digital, and podcasts, and announces a deeper focus on equestrian women’s brain health and longevity; especially ages 35+ navigating perimenopause, stress, and changing lifestyles.
She says the community is asking for science-backed research and case studies on how riding supports nervous system regulation, stress resilience, neuroplasticity, and potentially delays cognitive decline. Abbott connects the topic to her mother’s catastrophic brain stem stroke and her father’s dementia and stroke, noting women’s increased insulin resistance during hormonal decline and stroke risk factors like diabetes.
She cites a study of adults 65+ where eight weeks of riding improved brainwave output and memory more than traditional exercise. She invites listeners to join a free biweekly newsletter and optional subscription for full studies and expert interviews, with upcoming neurologist-led podcast episodes.
To join the Equestrian Brain Health and Longevity newsletter opt-in here: https://shorturl.at/yVTMb
00:00 Welcome to Horse Talk
00:34 New Content Direction
03:20 Midlife Equestrian Reality
07:30 Why Brain Health Matters
14:02 Science Behind Riding
17:36 Women Wellness Mission
18:49 Join the Community
24:03 Premium Research Access
25:06 Upcoming Neurology Series
26:14 Final Encouragement