A Typical Session
How it Unfolds Logistically
First Time – Handler should be present
I ask that an owner or handler be present the 1st time I massage a horse so I can spend some time before the massage discussing why I am there: what the issues may be and what the concerns are. I will also ask to have a waiver signed and a detailed history form filled out. There will be plenty of time to tell me as much as you’d like to tell me about your horse, its personality and your relationship. Then it is time for me to meet your horse. I really appreciate it if the horse has at least been roughly groomed. No major mud caking etc…
One Hour
The massage itself takes approximately one hour, depending on the horse’s behavior and what I discover during the massage. Horses were not bred to stand still, so some have a limit as to how much body work they can tolerate at one time. I do my best to get head to tail and cover their whole body during a session. Some horses may fall asleep, but some will get nudgy and need a quick walk around the barn to settle in again.
The Start
When I 1st meet a horse, I feel it is of utmost importance to connect with them. I usually begin by placing my hands on them and just “listen” for a bit. Get a feel for their body, and where they are at emotionally and physically. I like them to get a feel for me, my touch, my energy so we can connect. I let them know I am here for them and I am there to assist them in feeling better. This feeling of connection is important on many levels. It helps me anticipate when I am approaching a problem area by paying keen attention to their body language, both visually and physically.
Understanding What’s Going On
Understanding and paying attention to a horse’s body language is a vital part of my work. Horses have very specific ways of communicating, some more subtle than others.
An ear turning softly towards me, lets me know they are paying attention to a sensation and are interested. An ear quickly swinging my way with a raising of the head tells me uh-oh, better watch where you’re going! This is the first clue I am approaching a challenging spot. The communication may escalate to pinned ears, head bobbing up and down, tail swishing, pawing or doing their best to get away from me.
It is very important that I pay attention and listen to this, yet it is equally important that I help the horse get through it.
Muscle Memories
Many times the pain they remember or associate with an area, may actually be less in the present reality, when approached in the right manner. With the right touch, the horse begins to learn and feel that not only it is okay, it actually feels good to release some of the old tension. When the physical is released, the emotions associated with the pain are then free to release. This can be a crucial part of the horse’s education, and the beginning of building a trusting relationship.
Checking In
Most horses like to “check in” from time to time during the massage. Usually this is a casual muzzle to hand touch as they may be getting nervous about a spot. This reconnection is often enough to reassure them and they become willing to go on. This is one of the reasons I like to work with horses on a single tie, if possible. They have the freedom to communicate with me and to stretch and move as needed in order to facilitate a release during the massage. This is not always possible with horses that have only been handled on cross ties, but I like to give it a try initially.
After the Massage
After the massage it is best that the horse be allowed to move freely and have the rest of the day off from working. Some horses roll and are energetic, often times they nod off a bit and relax as they process the bodywork.
Changes
Changes in your horse may be very subtle at times. It might just be a change in attitude. They may be more relaxed overall, more willing to work even more affectionate. Depending on the initial issue, changes may be more obvious. They may be able to bend or flex a bit more, or able to get the correct lead with less difficulty. A calmer more relaxed horse is a better companion and better able to pay attention especially during training.
These techniques are designed to enhance the healing process and do not replace traditional medical or veterinary healthcare, medical diagnosis, or medical treatment for illness. I do not provide medical diagnosis, prescribe medications or perform surgery. Refer to a licensed medical or veterinary practitioner for medical care.