Slow Grooming Sessions as Bodywork
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I’ve always been the slowest at grooming and tacking up. After my initial bodywork courses it occurred to me that this could be incredibly beneficial for our horses.
Observations: When I’m grooming my mare, whether before bodywork or riding, I take note of how her skin and fascia is moving and of course, I note any areas of restriction or reduced motion.
Fascia Releasing: I usually start our grooming sessions by using a gentle rubber curry comb help to lift out any dirt and hair. However, it can also help to mobilize and release fascial restrictions and gently massage underlying the tissues. The best way to influence fascia is with slow and steady movements, following the natural direction of the hair before releasing any adhesions or restrictions.
Encouraging Circulation: Working with the fascia and underlying tissues encourages a boost in circulation which is great when it comes to preparing for a ride. I follow up the currying with brushing and continue with slow strokes all over the body, even the belly. When in a rush it’s easy to just skip brushing the legs but I find it important to continue the encouragement of circulation.
Mane Massage: If I’m spending the time brushing out my horses mane, I use a detangling product if needed. After that, I flip her mane to the other side and put oil into the roots, gently massage it into the base of her mane, before stroking it throughout the rest. I usually follow that up with some gentle massage down the crest of her neck, and address any adhesions or trigger points as well.
Taking note of changes in the direction of mane hair is also interesting to me.
Is there a whorl there? This makes sense.
Is there a fascial pull? Hmm, why would that be…?
