Most people that aren't familiar with bodywork associate a massage as a nice relaxing experience you get in a spa, and to have it done on your horse, absurd!
Well no, actually the massage experience for a horse doesn't need to involve warm towels and soft music (although it doesn't hurt...). It can be as simple as a 5 minute session of acupressure prior to your ride, or a 15 minute stretch for the stall bound horse. Either way, applying bodywork to your horse is a great way to help behavioral issues, increase circulation, maximize range of motion, alleviate soreness, relieve stress, and strengthen your overall bond with your horse. In my years of massaging, I have been the most pleased when owners say they have noticed a significant improvement in their horses overall attitude and willingness to work. Any equine from age 30 days to 30 years benefits from the manipulation of their muscle structure. It covers such a broad range of therapy that it can be applied and tailored to virtually any discipline or use. Learning how to provide your own bodywork gives you yet another way to enjoy your horse AND have your horse enjoy you!
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AuthorPaula Stirewalt is a Certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist, a Colorado State Horse Judge and has 25+ years in the horse industry. Archives
February 2024
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