Equine Shiatsu is an ancient oriental form of therapy, using acupressure and stretching techniques to heal and balance the horse.
It is a completely non-invasive, kind, gentle and effective therapy that the horse normally finds deeply relaxing. Shiatsu works along similar principles to acupuncture, but using only hands, thumbs and fingers to work points on the body, to free blockages and balance the Qi in the meridians. Although Shiatsu is not a substitute for veterinary care, it is often a welcome complementary treatment.
What is Qi?
Every living body is born with an essential life force or energy, known in Japanese as
Qi and in Chinese as
Chi, which is directed through the body along channels known as
meridians. Cells in the body are directed by their subtle Qi energy, which maintains order as opposed to breakdown. Any disruption in this flow of energy is a source of disruption and eventually disease. Shiatsu serves to balance and harmonise this energy flow through the sense of touch. A healthy flow of Qi energy along the meridians is necessary to maintain health throughout the body, and re-establishing a disrupted flow of Qi energy will help with proper healing from injuries or illness.
Re-establishing a proper flow of Qi energy often helps alleviate many existing problems such as lameness, stiffness, movement problems and back soreness.
What conditions can Shiatsu help?
Many of the problems that affect horses can be said to originate with stress, either physical or emotional. In clinical trials, acupressure has been shown to relieve stress, and as such is useful in the treatment of the following conditions:
- Sports injuries Shiatsu can help to relieve and prevent sports injuries and neuromuscular problems by using points and massage techniques to improve muscle tone and circulation. It is particularly helpful after injuries, for instance during periods of box rest and post-operative recovery.
- Arthritis Through stretches and specially chosen acupressure points, your horse can become more comfortable, mobile and active.
- Stroppy mares respond well to Shiatsu generally, as it can help them feel less stressed and therefore less likely to be over sensitive when handled.
- Skin conditions Shiatsu is helpful with many skin conditions such as sweetitch, hives and itchiness.
- Horses with a history of abuse or trauma are often much improved after Shiatsu treatment, as it helps them let go of the past and start to enjoy their new lives, changing old behaviour patterns and choosing new ones that are more appropriate.
- Nervy, anxious horses can be calmed and relaxed by Shiatsu treatment.
- Problems with stiffness, one sidedness, cold backs and lack of elasticity can be significantly helped with regular treatment.
- Respiratory problems such as COPD and allergies can be helped and calmed.
- As a complement to chiropractic treatment, by relaxing and toning the back muscles, Shiatsu can make spinal adjustments easier, more effective, and longer lasting.
There are many other conditions for which Shiatsu is helpful, please contact Kate for further information.
What happens in a Shiatsu session?
Before your horse receives Shiatsu, it is necessary to contact your vet in order to ensure that they are happy for your horse to receive treatment.
Normally your first session will last about 90 minutes, during which a full assessment of your horse will be carried out, through visual examination, palpitation and a thorough look at the horse’s lifestyle and history in order to build up a full picture of the individual concerned. After this the horse will be assessed for energetic imbalances and blockages, and will receive the first treatment. Generally subsequent sessions are about 45 mins duration.
Treatments are normally quiet and peaceful, allowing the horse to relax deeply, therefore a quiet environment is preferable. I am happy to answer any questions after the session but will make the horse my first priority during the treatment.
Holistic advice regarding lifestyle can also be offered in order to give your horse the best chance of achieving full, vibrant health and energy.
back to the top
