The Masterson Method, Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork

Home
United States
Fairfield, IA
The Masterson Method, Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork

The Masterson Method, Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork Improving performance, communication and relationship with your horse. The Masterson Method® is an integrated, multi-modality method of equine massage.
(207)

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 traditional modalities, it enables the horse to actively participate in the process of releasing tension. It is something you do with the horse, ra

ther than to the horse. This participation and interaction are 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!

02/19/2025

Why Wednesday: I have a newly rescued horse, and I am practicing the Bladder Meridian Technique with him to help him settle. He is not very expressive, and I find it hard to see when he blinks in response to my touch. How can I know for sure?

Answer: If you're not sure whether the horse has blinked in response to your touch, move your finger back a few inches before that spot and slowly go over it again. If he blinks in the same spot, that indicates a correlation between what you're doing and his response. If not, just move on and search for the next spot.

Every horse is different, and rescued horses sometimes need a little extra time to feel safe enough to relax and release openly. The length of time you spend on the entire Bladder Meridian Technique will vary depending on the horse and your own sensitivity. Some horses are very stoic and take longer to respond and release. With these horses, you’ll need to go slower and pay very close attention to even the subtlest responses. Some horses show responses but won’t release until you move past a spot or step back from them. So remember to take a step back every now and then to "see what the horse has to say," as Jim often says.

Join a Weekend Course to gain hands-on experience with techniques that support your horse’s well-being, improve their movement, and deepen your connection with them. Whether for routine care or performance enhancement, this method of bodywork delivers real results!

https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/

02/17/2025

In our latest blog, "Uncovering Softness: A New Perspective on Equine Bodywork", Masterson Method Certified Practitioner Crissi McDonald explores the profound impact of softness in bodywork. Crissi is a clinician, author, photographer, and indie publisher—and she also happens to be married to Mark Rashid. Her passion for softness extends beyond bodywork, influencing how she interacts with horses, writes, and views life itself.

In this article, Crissi shares the story of Top—her and Mark’s horse—and reveals how helping a horse feel safe enough to share their own softness (or heart) can deepen our connection with them. “Horses are already soft. They are born that way: receptive, aware, sensitive, and willing. It is through our interactions with them that we either cover that up or keep it alive.”

In its simplest terms, softness begins on the inside of us and flows outward. What does this mean when giving bodywork to a horse? Many things, but most of all, it’s an inner quiet that listens instead of tells, and asks instead of demands.

🔗 Read the full article in the link below and learn how subtle shifts in your approach can help you find true softness and connection with your horse: https://mastersonmethod.com/uncovering-softness/

If you want to learn more about softness and connection, watch Jim Masterson and Mark Rashid explore this concept in depth in their collaborative videos: Perspectives on Softness and Connection (Streaming Only) available on our website store.

02/14/2025

Valentine’s Day Special: Deepen Your Connection with Your Horse

Celebrate the gift of trust and connection with your horse this Valentine's Day. Softness isn’t just for relationships—it’s the foundation of a true partnership between you and your equine companion.

This Valentine's Day, join acclaimed horsemen Jim Masterson and Mark Rashid in a 3-part online video series as they discuss how to build trust and harmony with your horse and how this can be used to enrich bodywork and training. This unique collaboration is a rare opportunity to learn from two masters who share a passion for understanding and honoring the horse.

🎥What’s inside the Series?
🐴 Softness – Discover how softness in bodywork and training enhances communication and performance.
🐴 Connection – Learn how to deepen your bond through mindful techniques in both bodywork and training.
🐴 Q&A Session – Listen to Jim and Mark answer viewer questions in this engaging discussion.

This insightful series is for anyone with an interest in fostering a stronger relationship and partnership with their horse, whether you're an owner, rider, Masterson Method® Certified Practitioner, or trainer.

✨ For just $95, you can discover the meaning and benefits of softness and connection and apply them to your bodywork practice. Click on the link below to get access now:
https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/

02/12/2025

Why Wednesday: How can I help my horse lengthen his stride, especially in the front legs? He seems to be ok but maybe a bit tight in the pectorals, because he flinches when I touch him there.

Answer: The pectoral muscle tissue is delicate and the knots you can feel with your fingers will be squishy but tender to the horse. We use the point of the sternum between the two pectoral muscles to start our search. Jumpers, cutters, and horses ridden on the forehand often have sore and tight pectoral muscles.

Here's one way to help him release tension in the pectoral muscles:

1. Place your hand on the point of the sternum. You will feel the sternum in the visible groove that runs vertically down
the chest of the horse.
2. Search down on the side of the pectorals nearest you as you watch for the blinks SRSR.
3. Use Air Gap, Egg Yolk or barely touching. Watch for the blink—search (Egg Yolk) for tender areas as you follow the
muscle down the inside of the front leg where the leg attaches to the thorax and right behind the elbow.

Along with other locomotive muscles that attach the scapula and forelimbs to the trunk, the pectorals are part of a network of muscles that comprise the thoracic sling which supports the trunk between the forelegs.

Want to understand the importance of softness in releasing tension? Watch Jim Masterson and Mark Rashid explore this concept in depth in their collaborative videos: Perspectives on Softness and Connection (Streaming Only).

🔗 https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/

02/10/2025

Ever wondered what goes into creating a true connection with your horse? The magic starts with softness.

"Softness allows the horse to let go of guarding, survival responses, and embrace a sense of safety."
- Mark Rashid

"Softness is at the core of everything we do with horses, and it's about coming from a place of self-awareness and safety. When you’re in a quiet, thoughtful state of mind, that’s when softness can truly work."
- Jim Masterson

These are a couple of the highlights of a special 3-part online series in which Mark Rashid and Jim Masterson talk about the keys to trust, connection, and harmony with your horse.

🎥 What’s included?
🐴 Softness – Explore how incorporating softness into bodywork and training improves communication and overall performance.
🐴 Connection – Gain insight on how to strengthen your relationship with your horse through mindful techniques in both training and bodywork.
🐴 Q&A Session – Tune in as Jim and Mark answer audience questions in this insightful and interactive discussion.

This special collaboration offers a unique chance to learn from two equestrian experts who are deeply committed to understanding and respecting the horse.

✨ Now available for $95 – Ready to deepen your connection with your horse? Access this transformative series today and discover the art of softness in bodywork and training. Click the link below:
https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/

02/07/2025

🚨 Exciting News! Jim Masterson, founder of The Masterson Method®, will be a featured clinician at Equitana Essen in Germany from March 6-8, 2025!

Thanks to our longtime MMCP Walter Saxe, this is a fantastic opportunity to experience The Masterson Method® in action. Jim will be demonstrating techniques live, and both he and Walter will be at our booth to answer questions, share insights, and connect with you!

📍 Location: Exhibition Centre Essen
📅 Dates: March 6-8, 2025

More details on demo times coming soon—stay tuned!

Want to deepen your hands-on experience? Join one of our upcoming Weekend Courses in Germany:

📆 March 22-23 – Egestorf, DE
📆 March 29-30 – Frickingen, DE
📆 April 12-13 – Aßlar-Oberlemp, DE
📆 May 10-11 – Emden, DE
📆 August 16-17 – Egestorf, DE

🔗 Learn more about EQUITANA Essen and plan your visit here:
https://mastersonmethod.com/jim-masterson-at-equitana-in-germany-march-2025/

We can’t wait to see you there—stop by the booth and say hi! 👋🐴

02/05/2025

Why Wednesday: My horse has been quite worried lately because there have been some changes in the barn where he lives, and he's still trying to figure things out. A friend told me he looked like he had mental tension. Is there a way I can help him release that kind of tension?

Answer: Horses often carry mental tension in their forehead, which can feel hard—sometimes even like a rock. This tension can build up from stress, change, or discomfort, affecting their overall softness and relaxation.

One way to help your horse release this is through the Forehead Hold, a Light to the Core technique that encourages softness in both body and mind. Try this:

1️⃣ Hold the halter gently with your left hand and rest your right palm lightly on the center of your horse’s forehead.
2️⃣ Use the lightest touch (think Egg Yolk pressure or less). Slowly shift the skin upward toward the poll, as if moving paper.
3️⃣ Watch for subtle responses: softer eyes, blinking, a slight head drop.
4️⃣ If you find a spot of tension, stay there and soften—just like in the Search-Response-Stay-Release (SRSR) technique.
5️⃣ If your horse fusses, resist the urge to apply more pressure. Instead, soften your touch even more and simply stay.
6️⃣ You can also explore along the forehead muscles and in front of the ears, searching for areas where your horse responds.

This kind of work isn't just about physical release—it’s about softness, a quality that deepens your connection with your horse.

Want to learn more about softness? Watch Jim Masterson and Mark Rashid dive deep into this concept in their collaborative videos: Perspectives on Softness and Connection (Streaming Only).

🔗 https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/

02/04/2025

Perspectives on Softness and Connection: New Video Series with Jim Masterson & Mark Rashid – Available Now!

What does it truly mean to be soft with your horse? How can connection deepen your partnership? Join Jim Masterson, founder of The Masterson Method, and Mark Rashid, acclaimed trainer and author, in a special 3-part online series exploring the keys to trust, connection, and harmony with your horse.

🎥 What’s inside?
▪️Softness – Discover how softness in bodywork and training enhances communication and performance.
▪️Connection – Learn how to deepen your bond through mindful techniques in both bodywork and training.
▪️Q&A Session – Listen to Jim and Mark answer viewer questions in this engaging discussion.

This unique collaboration is a rare opportunity to learn from two masters who share a passion for understanding and honoring the horse.

Now available for $95 – Ready to deepen your connection with your horse? Get access today and learn how to embody the power of softness!
https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/

📷Photo Courtesy of Crissi McDonald.

02/03/2025

Softness isn’t just about a light touch—it’s about presence, feel, and the kind of quiet communication that makes a horse melt in your hands. When we soften, they soften. When we listen, they respond.

A horse that sighs, blinks, lowers their head, or leans into the moment is showing us the power of connection through softness. It’s in these moments that trust is built, tension fades, and true partnership begins.

📸 Have you ever experienced a moment where your horse completely let go in response to softness? Share in the comments!

✨ Stay tuned! Very soon, we’ll be sharing something special to help you dive deeper into softness and connection with your horse.

01/29/2025

Why Wednesday: My horse is not very expressive, and when I do The Masterson Method with him, I struggle to tell if he’s responding to what I’m doing or if I might not be doing it correctly. Any tips for identifying responses in a shy horse?

Answer: First, make sure you’re using a grade of touch that allows your horse to stay relaxed. When in doubt, lighten your touch. As Jim says, “If you stay light enough, long enough, your horse will have to give a release eventually.”

Also, remember to step back and give him some space now and then, so he has time to process and release. This can make it easier for him to “tell” you through his responses when you’ve successfully helped him release tension.

If your horse is shy and doesn’t give big, obvious responses, that doesn’t mean he isn’t feeling the bodywork or releasing tension. Some of the more subtle responses to watch for include:

- Blinking or twitching of the eye
- Changes in breathing
- Sighing or letting out a breath
- Dropping the head
- Softening of the eye or facial expression

The more you practice these techniques, the easier it will be to recognize these subtle responses.

Want to Feel Confident in Your Bodywork Skills? Join one of our Weekend Courses and get hands-on practice with expert guidance to help your horse release tension, improve mobility, and strengthen your connection.
👉 Find your course here: https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/

01/27/2025

Equine-assisted services (EAS) programs understand the value of listening to their horses and keeping equine welfare a top priority. Many are enlisting the help of a certified Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES) who can help them focus on equine welfare while offering a new activity for participants.

The certified MMES shows participants how they can give back to the horse using the Masterson Method Bladder Meridian Technique, a technique easy to learn and do with a horse. The intention is on giving a gift to the horse.

When EAS program participants learn how to offer the horse the Bladder Meridian Technique, they can establish a foundation for communication with the horse. They can also have a calming effect on the horse (and possibly themselves).

In turn, they can potentially receive a wide variety of benefits, such as:

• Improved self-confidence and a sense of personal empowerment
• Promoting a feeling of calmness
• Reduced anxiety
• Improved focus
• Offering a deep sense of connection with the horse
• Becoming more present and mindful
• Other (it all depends on the person's needs and experience!)

Here's what one of our students said about the Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES) course:
"This course was beyond my expectations. I learned so much from the teacher and every person in attendance. My work with horses and people will be new, informed by this experience."

In our MMES Course and Fieldwork Program, we teach how you can bring this activity to your EAS program participants and offer benefits to both the horses and the people. You also learn over a dozen techniques you can offer your EAS horses privately to extend the benefits of the bodywork.

Whether you run your own EAS program or volunteer at one, consider enrolling in one of our upcoming courses. See more about the MMES Course prerequisites, the Fieldwork option, and links to register for upcoming Courses at:

https://s.mtrbio.com/uugcsnmtcl

01/24/2025

🎉 Big Congratulations to MMCP Laura A. Fitch on her amazing new book, The Essential Horse Book!

If you’re new to horses or a seasoned equestrian, this book is your go-to guide for understanding and caring for these incredible animals. Laura takes you on a holistic journey, covering everything that matters for a horse’s well-being—mental health, digestion, sleep, tack fit, nutrition, and disease prevention. It’s like having an equine encyclopedia at your fingertips!

Here’s what Jim Masterson, Founder of The Masterson Method®, has to say:

"What there is to learn and know about the horse is infinite. With technology as it is today, we’re easily enticed by the latest perspectives and insights into the horse. Sometimes the fundamentals get bypassed. I find this book to be one of the basics that should be at every horseperson’s fingertips and on everyone’s bookshelf. It’s well-organized and presented, from the perspective of the horse’s well-being by a passionate and knowledgeable advocate for the horse.

Whether just starting out with horses, or someone like me who’s been around for a while but still filling in the infinite gaps, this is a worthwhile book to have on your shelf"

📖 The Essential Horse Book is available now on Amazon! Want to learn more? Check out Laura’s website: https://s.mtrbio.com/ijouyqhgoc

01/22/2025

Why Wednesday: I saw in one of your videos that the atlas and sacrum are connected. Since my horse fidgets a lot when I touch his head, can I work on the poll/atlas from the sacrum instead?

Answer: Absolutely! The atlas and sacrum are closely connected through the spine. Working on the sacrum can help release tension throughout the back, including the poll. The Sacrum Float Technique is a gentle yet powerful way to ease discomfort and support your horse’s relaxation.

Quick Steps for the Sacrum Float:

1. Position your hand: Place your palm (or back of your hand) under the tail. For sensitive horses, gently lift using the tail hairs.
2. Find the spot: Lift the tail slightly and watch for your horse’s subtle responses, like a blink, lip twitch, or change in breathing. Pause and hold your hand there.
3. Hold and wait: Stay light and give it 2-3 minutes. It may take that long for your horse to fully release tension, often followed by signs like licking, chewing, or yawning.
4. Add subtle movement: If your horse seems comfortable, gently lengthen the tail or compress it slightly toward the sacrum. Let your horse’s responses guide you.

This subtle technique releases tension in the sacrum and sacroiliac joints. Pay close attention—you may notice your horse lowering their head, which allows the poll and atlas to relax too!

Want to Learn More? Discover this and other techniques at our Weekend Seminar. Hands-on guidance will teach you how to improve your horse’s mobility, deepen your bond, and achieve real results together.

👉 Find your course here: https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/

01/20/2025

Have you seen our clips on social media and wondered how a horse can release so much tension with such a light touch? If you’re fascinated by the subtle power of light-touch techniques and want to explore how they can profoundly affect the deepest interconnections of the horse’s body, the Light to the Core Course is for you!

📖What You’ll Learn:

🔹Gentle, light-touch techniques designed to stay under the horse’s bracing response, the cornerstone of Masterson Method bodywork.
🔹Hands-on methods that create profound releases, enhancing the horse’s comfort and well-being.
🔹A deeper understanding of how to connect with the horse’s nervous system to facilitate tension release.

🙋Who Is This For?
🔸Horse owners and handlers of all experience levels—no prior anatomy knowledge required, and you won’t need to pick up the horse’s legs!
🔸Students who have reviewed and practiced the techniques demonstrated in Jim Masterson’s Light to the Core video.
🔸Anyone interested in enriching their understanding of light-touch techniques and their profound impact on the horse’s body.

🐴Why Take This Course?
🔹It’s the best course to master staying under the horse’s bracing response and help release deeper tension
🔹 Perfect for anyone looking to deepen their connection with their horse while improving their comfort and performance.
🔹Suitable for beginners, horse enthusiasts, and even experienced Masterson Method practitioners looking to refine their skills.

💬 Here's what one of our participants shared:
"This course helped me see the incredible impact of light touch. It’s simple but so effective, and my horse responded in ways I didn’t think were possible. Highly recommend it!"

If you’re ready to take your understanding of light-touch techniques to a whole new level and make a meaningful difference for your horse, check out the course’s next available locations and dates here:
https://s.mtrbio.com/cqzkxqaghu

01/17/2025

Here comes, the first Masterson Method Newsletter in 2025! Jim kicks off 2025 with his signature wit and a packed schedule. Here's a sneak peek at what’s inside this month’s Newsletter:

🗺️ Global Courses Galore
Hands-on courses happen everywhere from the U.S. to Europe, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, and beyond. Ready to take your Masterson skills to the next level? Check the calendar—there’s likely a course near you!

🎙️ Podcasts & Collaborations
Jim and his friends (including Daniel Dauphin and Mark Rashid) are teaming up for podcasts, webinars, and clinics. Don’t miss these opportunities for deeper learning and a little humor!

🎪 Expos & Demos
Catch Jim live at events like Equitana in Germany, the Idaho Horse Expo, Horse Expo Canada, and many more. Come to learn and see Jim Masterson in action.

🐴 Your 2025 Goals
Make this the year your horse experiences the Bladder Meridian Technique! Whether through courses, videos, or simply practicing with your horse, there’s no better time to improve movement, performance, and connection.

💡 Ready to dive in? Head over to the newsletter to read all the details, enjoy the photos and videos, and stay up to date on everything Masterson Method! Remember that all the Newsletters can be found on our website, under the Resources section, along with Free Educational Videos, the Bodywork Blog, Podcasts, and Articles.

🔗https://s.mtrbio.com/phdcmvyvsp

Not subscribed yet? Sign up on our website to stay updated:
https://i.mtr.cool/fgykhbiypi

01/15/2025

Why Wednesday: A few months ago, my horse suffered a groin muscle injury. While the vet confirmed he’s fully recovered, his stride behind still seems shortened. Could lingering tension in the groin be affecting other muscles or joints in his hind end?

When groin muscles are tight, they can cause tension in the stifles, making it challenging for the horse to bring the stifles outward. By releasing tension in the stifle, we can also help relax the muscles that connect to it, including deeper muscles in the back and the groin.

The affected muscles might remain tight if a horse resumes work too soon after a groin injury. Techniques like the Hind End Points can relieve this tension and help prevent one-sided issues from developing.

The Stifle Point is one of the key Hind End Points to focus on. Located in a soft indentation on the inside of the upper leg near the stifle, this point relaxes the muscles pulling on the stifle and influences deeper muscles in the hind end and groin. Releasing tension here supports a healthy range of motion in the stifle.

Use a very light touch—air-gap pressure—to find this point until the horse blinks. Then, hold your hand there until the horse gives a release response. As Jim says in the video you don't have to worry about finding the exact point, when you search in the area, the horse will tell you with his blink where to stay.

A word of caution: Some horses are particularly sensitive in this area, so always watch their body language. If their ears pin back, stop immediately. To ensure the horse is comfortable, work on other Hind End Points first before addressing the Stifle Point.

Join a Weekend Course to learn effective techniques that promote your horse’s well-being, enhance their movement, and help them feel their best. Whether for routine care or performance enhancement, this method of bodywork delivers real results.
https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/

01/13/2025

For Those Who Are Ready to Take Their Masterson Method Journey Further!
If you’ve completed a Weekend Course or the Beyond Horse Massage Home Study Course, you already know the powerful impact this bodywork can have on a horse’s well-being. But are you ready to develop your skills and make an even bigger difference?

The Advanced 5-Day Course is your next step—a transformative experience for anyone passionate about helping horses move, feel, and perform better.

What Makes This Course Special:

🔸Learn in detail further Masterson Method techniques and refine your ability to work with the horse’s nervous system to release tension.
🔸Hands-on practice with expert instructors' guidance to gain confidence in every technique.
🔸Advanced tools for addressing subtle tension patterns and improving the horse’s overall posture, comfort, and soundness.

Who Is This For?

🔹Horse owners, trainers, and bodywork enthusiasts ready to go beyond the basics.
🔹Students pursuing Masterson Method certification (Fieldwork is your next step after this course!).
🔹Anyone who wants to make a real difference in the lives of horses—whether working with their own or others.

What You’ll Gain:

🔸Extensive knowledge of how to recognize and resolve areas of tension in horses.
🔸Practical expertise to support the horse’s movement, comfort, and overall vitality.
🔸The confidence to apply advanced techniques that enhance the horse’s wellness and performance.

💬 One participant shared:
“This program is the best out there for improving range of motion and performance with horses, along with communication and interaction with your horse(s) while releasing tension and restriction. The joy and satisfaction YOU feel while improving the wellness of the horse cannot be fully expressed in words.”

Whether you’re working toward certification or simply want to elevate your knowledge, the Advanced 5-Day Course will empower you to help horses like never before.

Ready to take the next step in your journey? Learn more and join us in this life-changing experience.
https://s.mtrbio.com/lxdlzkkgjz

01/10/2025

❄️ Winter Care for Happy Horses! 🐴

Did you know winter weather can affect your horse’s comfort, mobility, and overall well-being? Our latest blog, "Bodywork in Winter: Tips and Tricks," offers valuable insights to help you support your horse during the colder months.

Here are some of the topics you will find that will provide you with helpful ideas:
✔️ Addressing Winter issues like maintaining balance and stability or limited exercise
✔️ Bodywork to help release tension due to the wear of heavy blankets
✔️ How to help relieve soreness and stiffness due to low temperatures
✔️ Keeping the horse (and yourself) comfortable doing bodywork in cold weather

No matter your experience level, these tips will help you upgrade your bodywork sessions and keep your horse feeling their best throughout the winter.

👉 Read the full blog now: Bodywork in Winter: Tips and Tricks
https://mastersonmethod.com/bodywork-in-winter-tips-and-tricks/

We’d love to hear from you! What’s your go-to winter care tip for your horse? Share in the comments below!

Thanks to all the people who contributed to this article with their tips and ideas and special thanks to Sabrina Wenzel for sharing her photos with us.

Address

123 N Main Street
Fairfield, IA
52556

Telephone

+16414721312

Website

http://www.mastersonmethod.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Masterson Method, Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to The Masterson Method, Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork:

Videos

Why Wednesday: I have a newly rescued horse, and I am practicing the Bladder Meridian Technique with him to help him settle. He is not very expressive, and I find it hard to see when he blinks in response to my touch. How can I know for sure? Answer: If you're not sure whether the horse has blinked in response to your touch, move your finger back a few inches before that spot and slowly go over it again. If he blinks in the same spot, that indicates a correlation between what you're doing and his response. If not, just move on and search for the next spot. Every horse is different, and rescued horses sometimes need a little extra time to feel safe enough to relax and release openly. The length of time you spend on the entire Bladder Meridian Technique will vary depending on the horse and your own sensitivity. Some horses are very stoic and take longer to respond and release. With these horses, you’ll need to go slower and pay very close attention to even the subtlest responses. Some horses show responses but won’t release until you move past a spot or step back from them. So remember to take a step back every now and then to "see what the horse has to say," as Jim often says. Join a Weekend Course to gain hands-on experience with techniques that support your horse’s well-being, improve their movement, and deepen your connection with them. Whether for routine care or performance enhancement, this method of bodywork delivers real results! https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/ #mastersonmethod #equinebodywork #BeyondHorseMassage #mastersoneducation #releasingtension #horsewellness #BladderMeridianTechnique #horseconnection

Why Wednesday: How can I help my horse lengthen his stride, especially in the front legs? He seems to be ok but maybe a bit tight in the pectorals, because he flinches when I touch him there. Answer: The pectoral muscle tissue is delicate and the knots you can feel with your fingers will be squishy but tender to the horse. We use the point of the sternum between the two pectoral muscles to start our search. Jumpers, cutters, and horses ridden on the forehand often have sore and tight pectoral muscles. Here's one way to help him release tension in the pectoral muscles: 1. Place your hand on the point of the sternum. You will feel the sternum in the visible groove that runs vertically down the chest of the horse. 2. Search down on the side of the pectorals nearest you as you watch for the blinks SRSR. 3. Use Air Gap, Egg Yolk or barely touching. Watch for the blink—search (Egg Yolk) for tender areas as you follow the muscle down the inside of the front leg where the leg attaches to the thorax and right behind the elbow. Along with other locomotive muscles that attach the scapula and forelimbs to the trunk, the pectorals are part of a network of muscles that comprise the thoracic sling which supports the trunk between the forelegs. Want to understand the importance of softness in releasing tension? Watch Jim Masterson and Mark Rashid explore this concept in depth in their collaborative videos: Perspectives on Softness and Connection (Streaming Only). 🔗 https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/ #mastersonmethod #equinebodywork #BeyondHorseMassage #mastersoneducation #releasingtension #horsewellness #SoftnessInHorses #ConnectionWithHorses #MarkRashid #JimMasterson

Why Wednesday: My horse has been quite worried lately because there have been some changes in the barn where he lives, and he's still trying to figure things out. A friend told me he looked like he had mental tension. Is there a way I can help him release that kind of tension? Answer: Horses often carry mental tension in their forehead, which can feel hard—sometimes even like a rock. This tension can build up from stress, change, or discomfort, affecting their overall softness and relaxation. One way to help your horse release this is through the Forehead Hold, a Light to the Core technique that encourages softness in both body and mind. Try this: 1️⃣ Hold the halter gently with your left hand and rest your right palm lightly on the center of your horse’s forehead. 2️⃣ Use the lightest touch (think Egg Yolk pressure or less). Slowly shift the skin upward toward the poll, as if moving paper. 3️⃣ Watch for subtle responses: softer eyes, blinking, a slight head drop. 4️⃣ If you find a spot of tension, stay there and soften—just like in the Search-Response-Stay-Release (SRSR) technique. 5️⃣ If your horse fusses, resist the urge to apply more pressure. Instead, soften your touch even more and simply stay. 6️⃣ You can also explore along the forehead muscles and in front of the ears, searching for areas where your horse responds. This kind of work isn't just about physical release—it’s about softness, a quality that deepens your connection with your horse. Want to learn more about softness? Watch Jim Masterson and Mark Rashid dive deep into this concept in their collaborative videos: Perspectives on Softness and Connection (Streaming Only). 🔗 https://mastersonmethod.com/product/perspectives-on-softness-and-connection/ #mastersonmethod #equinebodywork #BeyondHorseMassage #mastersoneducation #releasingtension #horsewellness #SoftnessInHorses #ConnectionWithHorses #MarkRashid #JimMasterson

When the horse gets that you get it, everything changes! In this clip, Jim Masterson explains one of the most powerful aspects of The Masterson Method: the moment when the horse understands that you are reading their subtle responses and softening in return. This recognition builds trust, encourages relaxation, and allows deep tension to release. Bodywork isn’t something we do to the horse, we do it WITH the horse—it’s a conversation. And when we listen, the horse responds in ways that go beyond words. Visit our website to learn more about this unique approach to equine bodywork and start building a new level of connection with your horse. https://mastersonmethod.com/ #MastersonMethod #EquineBodywork #BeyondHorseMassage #MastersonEducation #ListenToYourHorse #BuildingConnection #HorseConnection #EquineWellness

Why Wednesday: My horse is not very expressive, and when I do The Masterson Method with him, I struggle to tell if he’s responding to what I’m doing or if I might not be doing it correctly. Any tips for identifying responses in a shy horse? Answer: First, make sure you’re using a grade of touch that allows your horse to stay relaxed. When in doubt, lighten your touch. As Jim says, “If you stay light enough, long enough, your horse will have to give a release eventually.” Also, remember to step back and give him some space now and then, so he has time to process and release. This can make it easier for him to “tell” you through his responses when you’ve successfully helped him release tension. If your horse is shy and doesn’t give big, obvious responses, that doesn’t mean he isn’t feeling the bodywork or releasing tension. Some of the more subtle responses to watch for include: - Blinking or twitching of the eye - Changes in breathing - Sighing or letting out a breath - Dropping the head - Softening of the eye or facial expression The more you practice these techniques, the easier it will be to recognize these subtle responses. Want to Feel Confident in Your Bodywork Skills? Join one of our Weekend Courses and get hands-on practice with expert guidance to help your horse release tension, improve mobility, and strengthen your connection. 👉 Find your course here: https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/ #mastersonmethod #equinebodywork #beyondhorsemassage #mastersoneducation #releasingtension #horsewellness #horselameness #horseperformance #equestrianlife

In this reel, Jim Masterson explains the levels of touch in The Masterson Method, from the lightest air-gap pressure to the hardest yet mindful "Lime" pressure. No matter the level of touch used, the most important thing is to use a level of touch so that the horse stays relaxed and doesn't feel the need to brace against it. Ready to learn more about how this method of bodywork can transform your connection with horses? Visit our website to learn more! https://mastersonmethod.com/ #MastersonMethod #releasingtension #mastersoneducation #EquineBodywork #Listentoyourhorse #HorseWellness #Horsecare #Horseriders #Horselovers

Why Wednesday: I saw in one of your videos that the atlas and sacrum are connected. Since my horse fidgets a lot when I touch his head, can I work on the poll/atlas from the sacrum instead? Answer: Absolutely! The atlas and sacrum are closely connected through the spine. Working on the sacrum can help release tension throughout the back, including the poll. The Sacrum Float Technique is a gentle yet powerful way to ease discomfort and support your horse’s relaxation. Quick Steps for the Sacrum Float: 1. Position your hand: Place your palm (or back of your hand) under the tail. For sensitive horses, gently lift using the tail hairs. 2. Find the spot: Lift the tail slightly and watch for your horse’s subtle responses, like a blink, lip twitch, or change in breathing. Pause and hold your hand there. 3. Hold and wait: Stay light and give it 2-3 minutes. It may take that long for your horse to fully release tension, often followed by signs like licking, chewing, or yawning. 4. Add subtle movement: If your horse seems comfortable, gently lengthen the tail or compress it slightly toward the sacrum. Let your horse’s responses guide you. This subtle technique releases tension in the sacrum and sacroiliac joints. Pay close attention—you may notice your horse lowering their head, which allows the poll and atlas to relax too! Want to Learn More? Discover this and other techniques at our Weekend Seminar. Hands-on guidance will teach you how to improve your horse’s mobility, deepen your bond, and achieve real results together. 👉 Find your course here: https://mastersonmethod.com/beyond-horse-massage-weekend-seminar/ #mastersonmethod #equinebodywork #beyondhorsemassage #mastersoneducation #releasingtension #horsewellness #horselameness #horseperformance #equestrianlife

Have you seen our clips on social media and wondered how a horse can release so much tension with such a light touch? If you’re fascinated by the subtle power of light-touch techniques and want to explore how they can profoundly affect the deepest interconnections of the horse’s body, the Light to the Core Course is for you! 📖What You’ll Learn: 🔹Gentle, light-touch techniques designed to stay under the horse’s bracing response, the cornerstone of Masterson Method bodywork. 🔹Hands-on methods that create profound releases, enhancing the horse’s comfort and well-being. 🔹A deeper understanding of how to connect with the horse’s nervous system to facilitate tension release. 🙋Who Is This For? 🔸Horse owners and handlers of all experience levels—no prior anatomy knowledge required, and you won’t need to pick up the horse’s legs! 🔸Students who have reviewed and practiced the techniques demonstrated in Jim Masterson’s Light to the Core video. 🔸Anyone interested in enriching their understanding of light-touch techniques and their profound impact on the horse’s body. 🐴Why Take This Course? 🔹It’s the best course to master staying under the horse’s bracing response and help release deeper tension 🔹 Perfect for anyone looking to deepen their connection with their horse while improving their comfort and performance. 🔹Suitable for beginners, horse enthusiasts, and even experienced Masterson Method practitioners looking to refine their skills. 💬 Here's what one of our participants shared: "This course helped me see the incredible impact of light touch. It’s simple but so effective, and my horse responded in ways I didn’t think were possible. Highly recommend it!" If you’re ready to take your understanding of light-touch techniques to a whole new level and make a meaningful difference for your horse, check out the course’s next available locations and dates here: https://s.mtrbio.c

Jim Masterson Explains How the Masterson Method works. By staying under the horse’s bracing response, this gentle approach helps release tension, improve mobility, and promote comfort and trust. “We work with the horse, not against them,” Jim explains. Subtle responses—like a weight shift, a blink, or a change in breathing—guide the process and help find and release tension in the horse's body. Watch the reel to hear Jim’s insight and learn more about The Masterson Method here: https://mastersonmethod.com/about-masterson-method/ #mastersonmethod #mastersoneducation #BeyondHorseMassage #equinebodywork #Horseperformance #Horsewellbeing #Horsecare #equestrians #horseriders #horselovers