Equine Shiatsu is a complementary bodywork therapy that orginated in Japan. Shiatsu has been used in varying forms on people for centuries and the techniques have more recently been adapted to use with horses. Because of it's origins Horse Shiatsu has similarities with both Acupressure and Acupuncture but unlike Acupuncture it is non-invasive.
In literal terms the word Shiatsu translates as
"Shi" - meaning finger
"Atsu" - meaning pressure
Some useful points about Shiatsu for horses:
According to ancient oriental principles energy (known as Ki) flows around the body in channels or meridians, Equine Shiatsu works with this energy.
Energies are kept in balance by Yin and Yang and their complementary qualities. When these energies are out of balance the horse may show this in a number of ways from seeming out of sorts, to lameness or behavioural problems.
Shiatsu for horses uses pressure, stretches and and rotations to re-balance the energy that flows along the meridians.
Horses are particularly sensitive to body language and touch. They communicate predominantly with their bodies. This makes Equine Shiatsu an ideal therapy to help them as the methods used are a natural extension of their communication patterns.
As Shiatsu works so much with touch and trust we find it particularly effective when working with animals that have issues in this area. Hence we like to work with sanctuaries and rescue centres to help with the rehabilitation process of horses that have suffered neglect or abuse. If you run a centre that would be interested in using Horse Shiatsu please contact us.
An Equine Shiatsu session for your horse will take approximately 1 hour. On your horses first session this may be longer as information will be required about your horse, their lifestyle and any problems they may be having.
Various techniques will be used upon your horse during a Shiatsu session, some exercises may be given to you to practise with your horse between sessions.
During the Shiatsu your horse may show a varying degree of relaxation, common responses are:
Caroline is predominantly based in Staffordshire, the Midlands and North West, however is prepared to travel throughout the UK if requested. If you are interested in your horse having Shiatsu, please contact Caroline Austen on 01785 601676.
Want to find out more about Equine Shiatsu? I have provided a list of useful resources to give you more information or get in touch to discuss any questions you have.