Want to try some bodywork with your horse? Here's how!
If you are curious to try some bodywork moves on your horse, but are unsure how to approach it, here are some basic guidelines to help you on your way.
Gentle techniques, reduced to a simple touch, can have a profound effect.
I often get asked by horse owners, if it's ok for them to do some massage techniques on their horses. The question they most often ask is, »can I do any harm? «. While bodywork can be super complex and using it to treat dysfunction can be an art and a science at the same time, it can also be very simple. And simple does not mean not effective. I always encourage owners to explore the world of bodywork with their horses, because even simple moves can have profound effects. If you are ready to try some bodywork with your horse, here are some basic rules which you should follow to get the best effect.
1.
It's not about the technique, it's about how your horse reacts to it. Looking up a technique on YouTube and then applying it to your horse even if he protests, is not the best way to approach bodywork. Try not to get bogged down by specific techniques, but instead focus on what area of the body the horse enjoys having touched and simply spend some time there.
2.
Less is more. With horses being such big creatures, people often think that you need a lot of force to have any influence on his big muscles. This is not the case. With bodywork, less is more. If you are unsure about how much pressure to use, use less. A gentle technique will go a long way. Even something as simple as holding a hand on a body part will have an effect.
3.
If it's not enjoyable, don't do it. Because humans often have the experience of physiotherapy being painful, they think that unless a technique is uncomfortable, nothing will get done. With horses, It's more the opposite. If it hurts, they are more likely to have their guard up and tense their bodies, which is not what we want. If you are trying out bodywork, look for moves that your horse enjoys. When the horse relaxes into your touch and thoroughly enjoys something like the palm of your hand simply places on the poll, this will have a huge impact on his nervous system. He is not only shifting awareness to a specific body part; he is also learning how to find enjoyment in this particular area. This re-wires the nervous system, reducing stiffness and guarding of that body part.
4.
Be mindful of your own body. Horses respond really well to intention and energy, so make sure you are in the right headspace when trying bodywork. Keep your body relaxed, your moves slow, and stay in the moment. You can also implement some calming breathing techniques, which will add relaxation to the process. If you are feeling stressed or anxious, maybe leave the bodywork for another day.
It’s not about the technique, it’s about how your horse responds to it.
Bodywork can be a great bonding experience and it can help the horse to more happily inhabit his body. Feeling safe in his body will make him feel safer in his environment, which will help boost his confidence. Never underestimate the positive effects brought about by simple touch.