The Masterson Method® and how it works
The Masterson Method® is a unique, interactive method of equine bodywork that can release years of stress and stiffness that most affect performance. The results can help restore normal range of motion that most affect performance. These areas of stress can often be resolved in a few sessions, by relieving built-up tension in core muscles and key junctions of the body that affect the horse’s performance and/or attitude. The large majority of horses acting out are doing so out of pain and they don’t know how else to let you know, nature has conditioned them to hide their pain.
The Masterson Method® massage immune effects typically last from a few hours to several days after a session. The duration and strength of the immune boost depend on factors like overall health, frequency of massage, and individual levels of stress or inflammation. Massage stimulates the lymphatic system, reduces stress hormones like cortisol, and increases the production of white blood cells. It also promotes the release of growth factors, stem cells, fibroblasts, and myofibroblasts, which aid in immune function and tissue repair. With regular massage, these benefits can become more pronounced and sustained, as it helps maintain a balanced physiological state and reduces chronic stress.
In a nutshell massage helps your horse heal himself!
As a MMCP (Masterson Method Certified Practitioner) I use my training and experience to help recognize and use the horses' responses to find and release tension. The difference in traditional massage vs Masterson Method® is it works with the horse’s nervous system AND the horse actively participates in the process by telling us what they need and where they need it (how cool is that!). It is something MMCPs do with the horse, rather than to the horse.
Happy/Healthy horse = Happy/Healthy rider!
Signs of Release
Signs of release for a horse are both subtle & large responses that can work as indicators. Subtle responses include: blinking/twitching of the eye, twitching or quivering of the lips, sighing or change in breathing, softening of the eye/facial expression. Large responses include: licking/chewing, snorting/sneezing (esp repeatedly), grunting, shaking head/body, yawning (esp repeatedly), itching or scratching, self-stretching/flexing & fidgeting.
Bodywork affects the parasympathetic nervous system
Bodywork affects the parasympathetic nervous system which activates rest & relaxation in your horse. Often a horses will relax his head down low &/or they can't keep their eyes open & they appear to be going to sleep.
Masterson Method® with Jim Masterson demo on a horse
My Masterson Journey
My Masterson Method® journey started with my mare that I was showing in Ranch Riding a few years ago, she was doing very well for a while. Then when she hit about 7 years old, she started having unexplained issues that I later discovered were hereditary diseases that included both PSSM 1 and MIM. So, sorry to say, I had to retire her from showing and went to strictly trail riding. I call her my ‘special needs’ horse and thus my journey to try to help her. When my vet mentioned Masterson Method ®, I started looking into it and made the commitment to become certified. The first time I did bodywork on my mare with Masterson Method® I got emotional when I saw her wonderful responses. That euphoria of helping horses feel and move better never gets old!
Happy/Healthy horse = Happy/Healthy rider!
I serve the North-Central TN and South-Central KY area.
About me
Hello, my name is Teresa Stewart and my bodywork business is Healing Body WoRx (I can also be found on facebook). My love for animals especially horses started at a very early age. I grew up showing horses & when I went to college showed intercollegiate. Currently just trail ride. Before I graduated and years after I worked thoroughbred horse sales in Lexington KY, all together for over 24 years. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture with an option in Animal Science and a minor in Horsemanship. I also have an Associates Degree in Veterinary Technology.
I currently have two horse Miss Kitty & Simon, two dogs EllieMay & Teddy and two cats Clyde & Clematine.
Disclaimer:
The Masterson Method® and Healing Body WoRx is not intended to treat or diagnose medical conditions. It is important to note that this bodywork is not a replacement for proper veterinary care. Furthermore, I will not engage in diagnosing conditions or attempting chiropractic adjustments, as these require a doctoral degree. If your horse is currently under the care of a veterinarian for recovery from illness/injury, it is essential to seek clearance from the vet before scheduling a bodywork session.