What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a system of health maintenance that has been in practice for over 5,000 years. In Japanese, "shi" means finger and "atsu" means pressure. Shiatsu is "finger pressure" thatstimulates the body's natural healing ability.

According to Shiatsu tradition, energy (Ki) flows throughout the body via channels called the meridian system. Ki is the life sustained energy force found within the body. Each meridian is named after a specific organ system, and nourishes related muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons and even the cellular activity located on the meridian. A healthy flow of Ki energy maintains the function of anatomy located along the meridian.

Why Shiatsu for Horses?

Horses are particularly sensitive to body language and touch as they primarily communicate with their bodies. Shiatsu is an ideal therapy for horses as the techniques are a natural extension of equine communication patterns.

Since sixty percent of a horse's body weight is muscle, it is important to maintain a healthy muscular system to lessen and avoid problems.

Ultimately, my goal is to assist your horse in achieving a supple musculature, allowing him to work in comfort and balance, whatever the riding discipline.

How Long is a Session?

Typical Shiatsu sessions last approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. The first session is a little longer at about one hour and thirty minutes. This due to the need to discuss your horse's overall well being, nutrition, lifestyle, challenges and other pertinent information.

What Happens During a Session?

Shiatsu, stretching, and deep tissue techniques are used during the treatment. Your horse will exhibit responses such as licking and chewing, yawning and closed eyes, quivering lips, stomach gurgling and a lowered head. These responses indicate that your horse is in a relaxed state and enjoying the treatment!

What are the Benefits of Equine Shiatsu?

• Early recognition and therapy treatment of problems such as lameness or stiffness
• Maintains supple limbs thereby reducing susceptibility to injury
• Maximizes physical and athletic potential
• Strengthens the immune system
• Stimulates circulation, nervous system and release of hormones such as endorphins
• Relaxes and energizes the horse
• Alleviation of behavioral, training and physical problems
• Enhances horse's quality of life
• Helps to calm horses that have been injured, abused or neglected
• Shiatsu feels great... Your horse will love it!

Did You Know?...

• Most equine training and behavioral problems are due to pain or discomfort.
• Pain is the leading cause for equine anxiety which leads to resistance and ill temper.
• Horses that hold their heads up and hollow their backs are trying to avoid head or back pain.
• That a properly fitting saddle is necessary to allow freedom of movement through the back and shoulders.

Copyright handsonhorsemassage.com © 2007