Latest Articles
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Benefits of Stability Pads & Affordable Options
Stability Pads are interesting tools to add to a bodywork session. Equine specific models are available through Surefoot however, with a little creativity you can fashion your own at a much lower cost. Balance: Stability pads can challenge your horse’s balance and encourage it to engage its core for more mechanically sound posture and movement. Read more
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Regular Massage Can Stimulate Capillarization In The Blood Vessels While Optimizing Their Functionality
Capillaries are small blood vessels located within the body’s tissues that help to transfer blood to and from the muscles. Capillarization is the process of increasing the number of capillaries surrounding a muscle. An increase in capillaries results in an increase in blood flow to the muscles which increases the supply of oxygen and nutrients Read more
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24 Interesting Facts About How Horses Sleep
1. Horses are polyphasic sleepers, requiring a total of between 2.5 and 5 hours of sleep in each 24-hour period. 2. Horses usually get their required sleep through a series of short naps in varied positions. 3. Horses have a unique mechanism called “stay apparatus” that allows them to lock their joints and remain standing Read more
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Muscle Splints in Horses: Restoring Function and Flexibility with Massage
Muscle splinting is a physiological response of the body to protect an injured or inflamed muscle, tendon or joint. When there is an injury to a muscle, tendon or joint, the surrounding muscles may tighten to limit movement and protect the affected area from further damage. This tightening of the muscles is called muscle splinting. Read more
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What is the Therapeutic Approach called “Nerve Flossing”
Nerve flossing, sometimes referred to as nerve gliding or neural gliding, is a therapeutic approach aimed at enhancing nerve mobility and functionality. This technique uses specific movements to gently mobilize and stretch a nerve or group of nerves. By alternately applying tension on each side of the nerve, it encourages the nerve to smoothly glide Read more
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Supporting Horses with Degenerative Conditions: Strategies for Mobility & Well-being
Degenerative conditions are depressing; there’s really no way around it. And if your horse has been diagnosed with a degenerative condition, like arthritis or navicular syndrome, it can sometimes seem like there’s nothing you can do to help your horse anymore. Fortunately, you can still help your horse. Here’s how 1. Provide a living space Read more
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The Role of Massage in Enhancing Blood Flow and Healing
Oxygen and nutrients are carried to the muscles by circulating blood. As it leaves the heart, it travels through the arteries, the arterioles and into the capillary bed. Here it’s absorbed into the veinous system for return to the heart, to the lungs for resupply, and back to the heart to start another cycle. The Read more
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Embracing the Zone: Harnessing Flow for Optimal Performance and Fulfillment
Being “in the zone” or “finding your flow” refers to a mental state of complete immersion, focus and enjoyment in an activity. It’s often characterized by the feeling of a person being fully engaged, in what they are doing, when time seems to pass quickly. I find that I do my best bodywork, riding and Read more
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Interested in pursuing a career in equine massage therapy?
Here are some thoughts to get you started: Research: Start by researching equine massage therapy and the responsibilities and duties of an equine massage therapist. This will give you an idea of what the field entails and help you determine if it is the right career path for you. Education: Requirements for equine massage therapy Read more