The Masterson Method®
Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork®
The Masterson Method is an integrated, multi-modality method of equine massage. It is a unique, interactive method of equine massage in which you learn to recognize and use the responses of the horse to your touch to find and release accumulated tension in key junctions of the body that most affect performance. In contrast to most tradi
tional modalities, it enables the horse to actively participate in the process of releasing tension. This participation and interaction is what makes the method fascinating for those who use it. In fact, if you do not allow the horse to participate, it does not work! The aim of the method is to improve the horse's range of movement in the horse's body in a relaxed state. Horses are prey animals and their instinct is to brace against pressure or run away. If we yield to the resistance, but stay with the horse, there is nothing for the horse to brace against. The horse relaxes and we can ask again and, 'by sneaking under their radar', improve their range of movement a little bit more each time we ask. So, if you like, the process is a bit like yoga for horses! The techniques are non invasive and there are no strong manipulations, but the results can be quite astonishing. (Have a look at some of the video clips on the MM website : www.mastersonmethod.com). Because the horses actively participate in each session, another bonus is that you may see emotional and mental improvements as well as physical ones. You might be surprised at the improvement in temperament that results from releasing a horse from the discomfort that has built up over a long period. (You only have to remember how grumpy a toothache can make anyone feel!)
As restrictions or tightness develop in horses' bodies, just like us, they start protecting themselves by holding back. As time goes by they gradually lose confidence in their own physical ability (they might be less inclined to do schooling, canter or jump or just get gradually more stuffy). By asking your horse to relax in a comfortable position, go a little bit further and relax again, your horse starts to realise that its body actually can do that bit more than it thought it could. So, after one or two sessions it's not uncommon to see a horse that's more chilled than usual, is happier in its work and swings along more freely than before. The great things about the MM are that its truly interactive (you can only do it if you really engage with your horse), it's really accessible (we're happy to show you what we're doing and explain why) and you can see the feedback from your horse in real time. There are lots of systems out there for helping horses and they all have something to offer. The MM has adopted elements from many disciplines (fascia release, sports massage, sacro-cranial massage chiropractics etc) but we do them in the MM way. The MM can be used as a complete system by itself, but there are quite a few practitioners of other systems who have learned the MM and integrated the techniques into their existing skills as a useful and effective toolset. Enough words! If you're curious do have a look at the website and the videos, or if I can help please feel free to PM me.
