As an avid horse lover, I have always believed in the deep connection between humans and horses. It’s not just about riding and training; it’s a profound bond that extends beyond words. Throughout my journey with horses, I have discovered the transformative power of equine bodywork, not only for their physical well-being but also for their mental and emotional health. In this blog post, I will share my personal experiences and delve into the incredible benefits of equine bodywork in nurturing the mind, body, and soul of our equine partners.
Horses are amazing creatures that can offer us more than just companionship and entertainment. They can also help us heal and grow in ways that we may not even realize. Equine bodywork is a form of therapy that involves using various techniques to massage, manipulate, and stimulate the horse’s body, with the aim of improving its physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Equine bodywork can also benefit the human practitioner, as it creates a deeper connection and understanding between them and the horse.
Equine bodywork can be performed by professionals or by horse owners themselves, as long as they have the proper training and knowledge.
There are different types of equine bodywork, such as:
♀️ Equine massage:
This involves using hands, fingers, elbows, or tools to apply pressure and strokes to the horse’s muscles, tendons, ligaments, and skin. Equine massage can help reduce pain, inflammation, stiffness, and stress, as well as improve blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and immune system function.
⚕️ Equine chiropractic:
This involves using hands or tools to adjust the horse’s spine and joints, to correct any misalignments or subluxations that may affect its nervous system and overall health. Equine chiropractic can help restore mobility, balance, coordination, and posture, as well as prevent injuries and diseases.
瑱 Equine acupuncture:
This involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the horse’s body, to stimulate its energy flow and balance its yin and yang forces. Equine acupuncture can help treat various conditions such as colic, lameness, respiratory problems, skin issues, and behavioral problems.
Equine osteopathy:
This involves using hands to diagnose and treat any dysfunctions or restrictions in the horse’s musculoskeletal system and related tissues. Equine osteopathy can help enhance the horse’s self-healing ability, as well as improve its movement, function, and performance.
Equine craniosacral therapy:
This involves using light touch to palpate and manipulate the horse’s cranial bones, spinal cord, and cerebrospinal fluid. Equine craniosacral therapy can help release tension and trauma stored in the horse’s central nervous system, as well as harmonize its mind-body-spirit connection.
Equine bodywork can have many benefits for the horse’s mental and emotional well-being. Some of these benefits are:
- It can reduce stress and anxiety by lowering the levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and increasing the levels of endorphins (the feel-good hormones) in the horse’s body.
- It can improve mood and behavior by enhancing the horse’s emotional regulation, self-confidence, responsibility, communication, and trust.
- It can foster a positive bond and rapport with humans and other horses by improving the horse’s social skills and relationships.
- It can provide a safe and supportive environment for the horse to express its emotions and needs without fear of judgment or punishment.
- It can stimulate the horse’s brain activity and cognitive function by challenging its learning ability, memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
Equine bodywork can also have many benefits for the human practitioner’s mental and emotional well-being. Some of these benefits are:
It can reduce stress and anxiety by providing a relaxing and enjoyable activity that distracts from worries and troubles.
It can improve mood and behavior by boosting self-esteem, motivation, creativity, and optimism.
It can foster a positive bond and rapport with horses by developing empathy, compassion, respect, and appreciation for them.
It can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose by contributing to the horse’s health and happiness.
It can stimulate the human’s brain activity and cognitive function by enhancing concentration, focus, awareness, and intuition.
My introduction to equine bodywork came during a challenging phase of my life when I was struggling with anxiety and stress. Seeking a holistic approach to healing, I discovered the power of touch and the incredible impact it can have on horses. Equine bodywork encompasses various modalities, such as massage, acupressure, and stretching, that promote relaxation, release tension, and enhance overall well-being.
During my sessions with a skilled equine bodywork practitioner, I witnessed profound changes in my horse’s behavior and temperament. Through gentle strokes and targeted pressure, my horse would visibly relax, releasing the accumulated stress and tension within his body. It was a remarkable sight to witness as his muscles softened, his posture improved, and a sense of tranquility enveloped him.
Equine bodywork not only benefits the physical body but also nurtures the mind and soul of our equine companions. Horses, as sensitive beings, can hold emotional and energetic imbalances within them. The power of touch and intentional bodywork allows for the release of these emotions, promoting emotional well-being and a deeper connection between horse and human.
My personal journey with equine bodywork has been nothing short of transformative. Through the power of touch and intentional bodywork, I have witnessed the positive impact it has on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of horses. It is a practice that nurtures their mind, body, and soul, fostering a deeper connection and understanding between horse and human.
If you’re seeking a holistic approach to care for your equine partner, I highly recommend exploring the world of equine bodywork. Witness the profound effects it can have on your horse’s overall well-being and experience the beauty of this therapeutic practice firsthand.
Remember, the well-being of our horses goes beyond their physical health. It is our responsibility to care for their mental and emotional well-being as well. Let us embrace the power of equine bodywork and create a harmonious bond that nurtures their mind, body, and soul.
Here are some books and research papers that you might find useful:
Beyond Horse Massage: A Breakthrough Interactive Method for Alleviating Soreness, Strain, and Tension by Jim Masterson and Stefanie Reinhold**12**. This book teaches a unique method of equine bodywork that recognizes and follows the responses of the horse to touch to release tension in key junctions of the body that most affect performance. It contains step-by-step instructions, photographs and illustrations, tips and techniques, anatomical explanations and examples from the author’s practice. It also has a quick reference section that points you to exercises that are specifically suited to your particular discipline.
Equine Manual Therapies in Sport Horse Practice by Kevin K Haussler**3**. This article reviews the manual therapies that involve the application of the hands to the body, with a diagnostic or therapeutic intent. It covers touch therapies, massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation as critical components in the management of muscular, articular, and neurologic components of select injuries in performance horses. It also discusses the indications, contraindications, and evidence for these therapies.
Evaluating the Benefits of Equine Massage Therapy: A Review of the Evidence and Current Practices by Mike Scott and Lee Ann Swenson**45**. This article evaluates the potential benefits of equine massage therapy based on the available evidence and current practices. It explores the basic science rationale for massage, the common techniques used in equine massage practice, and the reported effects of massage on various physiologic systems and aspects of exercise recovery. It also identifies the limitations and challenges of conducting research on equine massage therapy.
here are some body work methods that you can try on your horse:
The Masterson Method12. This is a unique, interactive method of equine bodywork that helps you build trust with the horse and release tension in key junctions of the body that affect performance. It works with the horse’s nervous system and the horse actively participates in the process. You can learn this method through books, videos, online courses, or workshops.
Equine massage34. This is a manual therapy that involves applying pressure and movement to the soft tissues of the horse’s body to improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tension and soreness, enhance flexibility and range of motion, and promote relaxation and well-being. You can learn basic massage techniques through books, videos, or courses, or hire a professional equine massage therapist for more advanced treatments.
Stretching exercises4. These are simple movements that help improve the horse’s joint mobility, muscle elasticity, and posture. They can also prevent stiffness and injury, and enhance performance and recovery. You can perform stretching exercises before and after riding or training, or as part of a regular routine. You can learn how to do them safely and effectively through books, videos, or courses.
Last spring, I was determined to stay on top of my horse’s shedding coat. I spent hours each week grooming him and diligently removing all the loose hair. I thought I was doing a great job, until one day I arrived at the barn to find that my horse had rolled in a pile of his own shedding hair.
I couldn’t believe it – I had spent so much time trying to get rid of all that hair, and he just went and rolled in it! I couldn’t help but laugh as I brushed him off, realizing that sometimes no matter how hard we try to manage our horse’s shedding, they will always find a way to make a mess of things.
Lesson learned – sometimes you just have to roll with the shedding hair and enjoy the ride!
As the weather starts to warm up, it’s natural for horses to shed their winter coat in preparation for the warmer months. However, shedding season can leave horse owners with a big mess to clean up and a horse that still looks shaggy. But fear not, there are some things you can do to help manage your horse’s shedding process and keep them looking and feeling their best.
Why horse sheds?
Horses shed their winter coats as the weather warms up due to a complex process involving hormonal changes triggered by the longer daylight hours. According to research, as the days start to get longer in the spring, a horse’s pineal gland in their brain begins to produce less of the hormone melatonin, which is responsible for regulating their coat growth. As a result, the hair follicles are released from their dormant state and start to produce new hair. This causes the old winter coat to loosen and shed out. Additionally, warmer weather triggers an increase in blood flow to the skin, which also stimulates hair growth and shedding.
Shedding is a natural process that is influenced by changes in daylight and temperature. According to a study published in the Journal of Animal Science, shedding is triggered by an increase in daylight hours and a rise in temperature, which causes the hair follicles to release the old hair and produce new hair. Another study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that hormonal changes, particularly the increase in levels of prolactin and melatonin, also play a role in shedding. Overall, shedding is a natural and necessary process that allows horses to adapt to changes in their environment.
Here’s a link to a scientific article on the topic of seasonal shedding in horses:
Here are some tips for managing your horse’s spring shedding season:
Groom regularly:
Regular grooming not only helps to remove loose hair and dirt but also promotes circulation and healthy skin. Use a curry comb to loosen dirt and hair, a stiff-bristled brush to remove loose hair, and a soft-bristled brush to bring out a shine.
Bathe your horse:
A warm bath can help to loosen and remove stubborn hair. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, and rinse thoroughly.
Use a shedding blade:
A shedding blade is a tool specifically designed to remove loose hair. It’s a metal blade with small teeth that can easily remove hair from your horse’s coat.
Provide proper nutrition:
A healthy diet rich in essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals can help promote a healthy coat and skin.
Consider blanketing:
If your horse is still shedding but temperatures are still cool, consider using a light blanket to help keep them comfortable and prevent them from getting chilled.
By following these tips, you can help manage your horse’s shedding process and keep them comfortable and healthy as the weather changes. Remember to be patient and take your time when grooming and bathing your horse, and don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of spring shedding season.
Book recommendations
“The Horse Owner’s Guide to Grooming” by Susan McBane: This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to properly groom your horse, including tips on brushing, bathing, clipping, and more. You can find it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Horse-Owners-Guide-Grooming-McBane/dp/0764117649
“The Complete Guide to Horse Care: Everything You Need to Know to Have a Happy, Healthy, Well-Trained Horse” by Tim Hawcroft: This book covers all aspects of horse care, from feeding and nutrition to health and wellness, and even training and behavior. You can find it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Guide-Horse-Care-Well-Trained/dp/0789480856
“Feeding and Care of the Horse” by Lon D. Lewis: This book is a great resource for understanding the nutritional needs of horses and how to properly care for them. It covers topics such as feeding schedules, feed types, and managing weight. You can find it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Care-Horse-Lon-Lewis/dp/0470137810
As horse owners, we want to make sure we are giving our horses the best possible care, including appropriate exercise and training. One common question that comes up is, “How long should I train my horse daily?” The answer, of course, varies depending on the horse’s age, fitness level, and discipline. Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors to consider.
According to equine fitness expert Jec Aristotle Ballou, “The amount of time spent in exercise or training has less significance than how we use that time.” She emphasizes that quality is more important than quantity, and that we should focus on doing exercises that are beneficial for the horse’s specific needs. This could include a combination of riding, groundwork, and other forms of exercise.
It’s also important to take the horse’s age and fitness level into account. For example, a young horse may not have the physical capacity for a long training session, while an older horse may need more rest breaks. Ballou recommends starting with shorter sessions and gradually building up as the horse becomes more fit and able to handle longer work.
Another consideration is the discipline or activity the horse is being trained for. A horse in heavy work, such as a racehorse or eventer, will likely need longer training sessions than a horse used primarily for trail riding or pleasure riding. Ballou suggests varying the horse’s training schedule based on their discipline and goals.
It’s important to remember that each horse is an individual and may have different needs when it comes to training. As Ballou notes, “One horse may need a short, intense session to stay fit and focused, while another horse may do better with longer, more relaxed sessions.”
When I first adopted my horse, he had been through a difficult period of rehabilitation after a serious injury. Although he had been cleared by the vet to start training again, I was hesitant to push him too hard too soon.
He was my first horse, and during the time as a new horse owner, I had read all the books and watched all the videos on how to train a horse, but putting it into practice was a different story. I struggled with finding the right balance between pushing him enough to make progress and not pushing him too hard that he might get injured again.
To make matters worse, my horse was stubborn and easily distracted. He would often refuse to do what I asked him to do, and I found myself getting frustrated and discouraged.
I reached out to other horse owners for advice and tried various training techniques, but nothing seemed to work. I began to doubt my abilities as a horse owner and trainer.
It wasn’t until I sought the help of Jec ballou’s online program things started to turn around. With her guidance, I learned to read my horse’s body language and adjust my training accordingly. I also discovered new training methods that worked better for my horse’s personality and learning style.
Through perseverance and dedication, my horse and I made progress, and I saw her confidence grow with each training session. It was a long road, but the journey was worth it.
So, what’s the bottom line?
Rather than focusing on a set amount of time for training, we should pay attention to the horse’s individual needs and work to create a training program that is beneficial and enjoyable for them. As Ballou says, “The ideal length of a training session is one that leaves your horse feeling happy, relaxed, and energized.”
In addition, “The Rider’s Fitness Program” by Dianna Robin Dennis offers exercises specifically for riders to improve their own fitness and better support their horses during training.
Finally, “Equine Fitness” by Jec Aristotle Ballou provides a comprehensive guide to equine fitness, including information on conditioning, nutrition, and injury prevention.
Remember, the most important thing is to create a training program that works for both you and your horse, taking into account their individual needs and goals. Happy training!
Research paper:
McGreevy, P. D., McLean, A. N., Warren-Smith, A. K., & Waran, N. K. (2012). Training duration and subjective measures of stress in horses. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research, 7(1), 33-39. doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2011.03.001 Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1558787811000982
Weaning is a significant event in a foal’s life, as it marks the beginning of their separation from their dam and the transition to solid food. It’s no surprise that this period can be a stressful time for both the foal and the mare. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky found that foals exhibit increased stress levels for weeks after weaning. As a responsible horse owner, it’s crucial to understand the effects of weaning on foals and how to manage their stress during this period.
What Happens to Foals During Weaning?
Foals are social animals, and their bond with their dam is essential for their physical and emotional well-being. Weaning disrupts this bond, which can cause emotional distress in foals. Foals may exhibit a range of behaviors during weaning, such as vocalizing, pacing, and decreased appetite. They may also become more susceptible to illness and experience weight loss.
Foals’ stress response to weaning is primarily triggered by the removal of the mare’s milk. The sudden change in diet, along with the loss of their primary source of comfort, can lead to increased levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, in their bodies. In the study mentioned above, the foals’ cortisol levels were measured three weeks after weaning and were found to be significantly higher than before weaning.
How do I know if my foal is in high stress level?
To determine if a foal is experiencing high levels of stress, veterinarians can measure the foal’s cortisol levels in the blood or feces. Additionally, they can observe the foal’s behavior, such as vocalizations, agitation, and reduced appetite, as these are all signs of stress. It’s important to monitor foals closely during the weaning process to ensure that their stress levels are managed appropriately.
Managing Foal Stress During Weaning
It’s essential to manage a foal’s stress during weaning to ensure their well-being and reduce the risk of illness or injury. Here are some tips for managing foal stress during weaning:
🍼Gradual Weaning:
Gradual weaning can help reduce the stress of separation for both the foal and the mare. This method involves reducing the foal’s milk intake slowly over several weeks while gradually increasing their solid food intake.
🐎Socialization:
Foals are social animals, and socialization with other horses can help reduce their stress levels. Weaned foals should be turned out with other young horses to help them adjust to their new environment and establish social bonds.
🌳Environment:
A foal’s environment can have a significant impact on their stress levels. A quiet, calm environment with minimal changes and disruptions can help reduce stress during weaning.
🌾Nutrition:
Proper nutrition is essential for a foal’s physical and emotional well-being. Foals should be provided with high-quality hay, grain, and clean water. Supplements, such as probiotics and electrolytes, can also be helpful during the weaning process.
👩⚕️Veterinary Care:
Regular veterinary check-ups can help ensure that weaned foals are healthy and free of illness or injury.
Here is one of our client’s experience:
Jane is a horse breeder.She weaned her foal at six months of age as recommended by her veterinarian. The foal showed signs of stress, including weight loss and behavioral changes such as increased nervousness and restlessness. Despite her efforts to provide a comfortable environment and regular care, the foal’s stress levels remained high for several weeks after weaning. The breeder consulted with her veterinarian, who suggested some management changes and supplements to help the foal cope with the stress of weaning.
To help the weaned foals in this case, the Jane implemented a gradual weaning process and increased social support for the foals. By gradually reducing the time the foals spent with their dams over a period of several weeks, the foals were able to adjust to the separation more easily, and their cortisol levels were lower compared to foals who were abruptly weaned. Additionally, the foals were given more opportunities to socialize with other horses, which helped to reduce their stress levels and promote their overall well-being.
It’s important to note that every situation is unique, and what works for one foal may not work for another. Therefore, it’s important to work closely with a veterinarian or equine behaviorist to develop a weaning plan that is tailored to each individual foal’s needs and temperament. By taking a proactive approach to managing foal stress levels during and after weaning, horse owners can help to ensure the long-term health and well-being of their young horses.
Weaning process plan with a timeframe:
Day 1-3: Remove the mare from the foal’s living area but allow them to maintain visual and auditory contact with each other.
Day 4-6: Move the mare to a location out of sight and earshot of the foal, but still within the property. The foal should be kept in familiar surroundings and provided with plenty of hay, water, and social interaction with other foals or horses.
Day 7-10: Move the mare to a location further away, out of sight and earshot of the foal. The foal should continue to receive the same care and attention as before, and may benefit from the addition of a companion animal to provide social support.
Day 11-14: The foal should now be able to manage without the mare. Continue to monitor the foal’s stress levels and provide plenty of social interaction with other horses.
By gradually separating the mare and foal over a two-week period, the foal should experience less stress and have an easier transition to independence. It’s important to keep in mind that every foal is different and may require adjustments to the weaning process based on their individual needs. It’s always best to work closely with your veterinarian or equine professional to develop a weaning plan that is tailored to your horse’s specific situation.
Take-away:
Weaning can be a stressful time for both foals and horse owners. However, by implementing a gradual weaning process and providing social support, you can help to reduce stress levels and ensure the well-being of your foal. Remember to consult with your veterinarian and develop a weaning plan that is tailored to the specific needs of your foal. Good luck with your weaning process, and may your foal grow up happy and healthy!
Here are some research papers you can dig-in more :
Several studies have investigated the effects of weaning on foal stress levels. One study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that foals experience a significant increase in cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, after weaning. The study also found that foals who received more social support, such as spending time with other horses, had lower cortisol levels after weaning.
Another study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that foals who were weaned gradually over a period of several weeks had lower cortisol levels and showed fewer signs of stress compared to foals who were abruptly weaned.
Dealing With Mud and Flooding on Horse Properties: Tips and Strategies
As a horse owner, managing mud and flooding on your property can be a real headache. Not only can it make it difficult to care for your horses, but it can also pose a danger to their health and wellbeing. In this blog post, we will provide you with some tips and strategies for dealing with mud and flooding on horse properties.
Understanding the Problem
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to understand why mud and flooding occur on horse properties. There are several factors that can contribute to these problems, including:
👎Poor drainage
👎Heavy rainfall or snowmelt
👎High water table
👎Compact soil
👎Lack of vegetation
When any of these factors are present, it can create a muddy and flooded environment that can be difficult to manage. However, with the right strategies and tools, you can mitigate these issues and create a healthier and safer environment for your horses.
Solutions for Managing Mud and Flooding
🙌 Improve Drainage
The first step in managing mud and flooding is to improve drainage on your property. This may involve installing drainage systems such as French drains, culverts, or swales. These systems can help to divert excess water away from your horse’s living areas, reducing the amount of mud and standing water.
In addition to installing drainage systems, you may also need to regrade your property to ensure that it slopes away from your horse’s living areas. This can help to prevent water from pooling around your horse’s hooves and legs, which can lead to skin infections and other health problems.
🙌Add Vegetation
One of the main causes of mud and flooding on horse properties is a lack of vegetation. Without vegetation, the soil is more likely to become compacted, which can prevent water from penetrating the soil and increase runoff. To combat this problem, consider adding vegetation to your property.
Grass, for example, can help to absorb excess water and stabilize the soil. It can also provide a soft, comfortable surface for your horses to stand and move around on. Other plants such as shrubs and trees can also help to stabilize the soil and provide additional shade and shelter for your horses.
🙌Use Footing Materials
If you’re dealing with mud in your horse’s living areas, you may need to use footing materials to create a drier, more stable surface. There are many different types of footing materials to choose from, including:
Gravel
Sand
Wood chips
Rubber mats
Geotextile fabrics
Each of these materials has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to research and choose the best option for your specific needs.
🙌Maintain Your Property
Regular maintenance is key to managing mud and flooding on your horse property. This may include tasks such as:
Removing manure regularly
Mowing grass to prevent it from becoming too tall and dense
Trimming trees and shrubs to prevent them from blocking drainage systems
Filling in low spots with soil or gravel
Checking and cleaning drainage systems regularly
By taking these steps, you can prevent mud and flooding from becoming a major problem on your property.
Real-Life Examples
Here are a few examples of real-life scenarios where mud and flooding have been successfully managed:
The Stall Allen here Norway, is in a rainy area had issues with mud in her horse’s living areas. The owner she installed French drains to improve drainage and used a mix of sand and geotextile fabric as footing material. Regular maintenance, including removing manure and trimming trees, has helped to keep the area dry and stable.
The other client of ours, she lives in a flood-prone area had issues with standing water around her horse’s living areas. She regraded her property and installed a drainage system to move water away from the barn and paddocks. Additionally, she added gravel or rock to high-traffic areas to reduce the amount of mud. She also kept a supply of dry shavings on hand to help soak up any wet areas and added a sand footing to her arena to help with drainage.
A boarding facility had several areas prone to mud due to heavy horse traffic. To alleviate the issue, the barn owner installed French drains in the affected areas and added a layer of gravel on top to improve drainage. They also implemented a regular maintenance schedule for their paddocks, including manure removal and reseeding.
By taking proactive measures, these horse owners were able to manage mud and flooding on their properties and keep their horses safe and healthy.
In conclusion, mud and flooding can pose a serious threat to horses and their health, but there are steps that can be taken to manage the issue. Proper property maintenance, such as regular drainage and grading, can go a long way in preventing mud buildup. Using appropriate footing and adding gravel or rock to high-traffic areas can also help reduce mud. By taking the time to address these issues, horse owners can create a safer and healthier environment for their equine companions.
