Services & Pricing

 

Equine Bodywork

I use acupressure along the meridian lines that have been used in Japanese and Chinese medicine for more than 5,000 years. The majority of these meridians are associated with organs such as the heart, liver, stomach, large intestine, and the bladder to name a few. When energy is blocked due to muscle tension, strain, or emotional distress it becomes stagnant and in turn affects these major organs, leading to unforeseen health issues.

The Shiatsu techniques I use are Percussion (to relax the muscles), Rotation and Sedation (to eliminate muscle problems with direct pressure), Kneading (to oxygenate blood and remove metabolic waste), Cross Fibre (loosen and lengthen the muscles), and Running Energy (a light touch to aid in the energetic flow). A stripping technique is used on the legs to release tension and increase circulation throughout the body.

The Power of Shiatsu

Shiatsu is one of the oldest forms of therapy there is–healing with hands. It focuses on the flow of energy in the body Ki (key). Shiatsu means finger (Shi) pressure (Atsu), and it’s usually our thumb that provides the most pressure along the bodies energy channels known as meridians.

Shiatsu is a path of gentleness and encouragement, learning to read body language and leading the body to relax and release emotions that become stagnant, so that the life force can flow as it was meant to naturally. A horse’s truest expression is movement. How we help them return to that natural movement is through relieving their tension in a graceful manner.

What to expect during a session

After a discussion about your horse’s history and health, I begin each session spending time connecting with your horse. Setting my intention and energy that communicates permission to help heal and relieve their tension.

Horses are flight creatures, and like any relationship, trust and safety should be established before doing deep work such as acupressure and massage, especially if they are holding onto a history of tension or emotional trauma.

When a horse feels relaxed and safe, the parasympathetic nervous system slows down breathing and heart rate while increasing blood flow to the intestines, liver and the rest of the digestive tract. Horses in a PNS state look relaxed and at ease. Normal breathing, yawning and gut sounds will be visible. This is our goal.

Single Session

$150

PER HORSE / 90 MIN SESSION

Three Session Package

$400

90 MIN SESSIONS

 

Discounted rates apply for multiple horses and ongoing scheduled sessions. I serve the Monterey County and Santa Cruz County areas. Travel fees may apply depending on distance and if outside of these areas.

Benefits of Equine Bodywork

  • Muscle Maintenance

    Horses can develop muscle tension, stiffness, and imbalances, due to their athletic activities and natural movement patterns. Massage helps to release tension, improve flexibility, and maintain muscle health.

  • Enhanced Performance

    A relaxed, supple body is essential for optimal performance in horses. Massage therapy can improve range of motion, coordination, and overall athleticism, leading to better performance in various disciplines.

  • Stress Reduction

    Horses can experience stress and anxiety, which can manifest physically as tension in the muscles. Massage promotes relaxation and can help alleviate stress-related issues, promoting a calmer demeanor and improved overall well-being.

“Almost every behavior issue with a horse is a result of held tension and stagnant energy resulting in them not feeling relaxed or safe.”

- Good Shepherd Gabriel