Just like people, our horses are athletes too. One of the most important things as athletes is to be in-tune with our bodies. We always want to feel our best to get further in our training, whatever it may be, and by having tight or sore muscles, that may affect our capability to reach our goals. Whether we are aiming for that world title, or to get through that pattern as fluidly as possible, massage is a great tool to help our horses get there. When we’re feeling sore we can sometimes get grumpy or moody, so why let our horses feel that way too? It is just as important to take good care of ourselves but also our steeds. Our horses do so much for us that we need to remember how important it is to do the same for them. Massage can be such a great way to help ease the stress on their bodies and in turn, relieve any tightness in their muscles.
Additionally massage can be a good way to get our horse’s mind to reconnect with their bodies and let them relax. In times of stress it can be an excellent way to get the body and brain connected. A great example of this is traveling for shows. Sometimes our horses forget to drink water, or eat, or something of the sorts which can stress out the body and can make them feel less like themselves, or more likely to have a health scare. Doing massages in environments like this can give them a sense of zen and get their body back into its normal rhythm and remind them; hey, you need to eat, or, oh yeah, I’m thirsty, maybe I should drink some water.
Most importantly, when it comes to massage it is best done when it’s a routine. Whether it’s once a month or weekly, our bodies as well as our horse’s do best when we are consistent. It may be something like doing a massage at the beginning of the month and then adding extra ones at shows to keep them more relaxed. Whatever it is, having some sort of routine is so incredibly important to not just the body, but the mind.