The Masterson Method, Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork

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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.
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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!

12/03/2025

Why Wednesday ~ I’ve recently begun taking my horse to dressage shows, and I’d like to help him stay as supple as possible while competing. Any tips on what parts of his body I should prioritize with The Masterson Method?

Answer: Dressage asks a lot physically, and even a well-conditioned, correctly ridden dressage horse benefits from consistent bodywork. As your horse moves up the levels, fresh patterns of tightness can appear and need extra attention. Staying on top of regular releases helps keep him even, relaxed through his topline, and able to move with freedom.

A particularly valuable place to check is the poll, specifically the space between the occiput and atlas. When that area gets restricted, it can ripple down through the rest of the body and show up in the way the horse travels. And as the neck, shoulder, and wither muscles develop with training, they’re worth addressing too, so they don’t become limiting factors.

One helpful technique for keeping this area loose is Lateral Cervical Flexion. You can watch Jim demonstrate how to do Lateral Cervical Flexion in the Dressage Movements Revealed video.

Want to learn sport-specific Masterson Method bodywork to support your horse's flexibility, rhythm, and longevity? Check out the Dressage Movements Revealed Video (Online Streaming) on our website store. Black Friday special until December 4: 25% off!

https://mastersonmethod.com/product/dressage-movements-revealed-dvd/

12/01/2025

Ever wonder why a movement feels “stuck” even when the training is there? The Dressage Movements Revealed video takes you inside the horse’s body, allowing you to see what helps (or limits) extension, collection, bending, and lateral work. Learn sport-specific Masterson Method bodywork to support flexibility, rhythm, and longevity.

You’ll get clear, practical insights you can use right away, whether you’re schooling at home or fine-tuning for the show ring. Perfect for riders, trainers, and bodyworkers who want to keep their horses feeling their best and moving freely.

🖤 Black Friday Sale: 25% OFF through Dec 4: select the Dressage Movements Revealed Video in Online Streaming by clicking on the link below before the discount ends! 🎥🐎

https://mastersonmethod.com/product/dressage-movements-revealed-dvd/

11/28/2025

What if a lighter touch could create a deeper relaxation in the horse's body? 🤍
The Light To The Core Video teaches you how to use light touch to listen, find tension, and help your horse soften from the inside out.

Right now, it’s on sale for Black Friday: 25% off (DVD or Online Streaming) through December 4.
And yes, it’s the only prerequisite for joining a Light To The Core course. So if you were thinking of signing up to one of our Light To The Core courses, seize the occasion now!

Check it out here: https://mastersonmethod.com/product/light-to-the-core-dvd/

11/27/2025

On this day of gratitude, we’re giving thanks for our horses, our shared journey, and this wonderful community.

Thank you for being willing to learn how to help horses feel better in their bodies and minds through The Masterson Method.

Wishing you a beautiful Thanksgiving. 🧡🐴

11/26/2025

Why Wednesday ~ My horse has difficulty bringing his hind legs under to be able to round his back. My trainer thinks that he has tension around the sacroiliac joint. Which technique would you recommend?”

Answer: Horses often accumulate tension through the lumbosacral area and the sacro-iliac (SI) junction, which can reduce hind-end range of motion.

Even though the SI has only a tiny amount of movement, it’s a key shock-absorbing connection between the spine and pelvis and a main transfer point for the push from the hind legs. When it’s tight, horses may shorten their stride, avoid stepping under, and struggle to lift their back.

To help your horse most in this area first, you want to release as much tension as possible in the hind-end muscles. Before doing movement techniques, start with the Hind End Points:

• Under the Tail Points
• Sacroiliac Point
• Hip Joint Point
• Pelvic Point
• Stifle Point
• P***c Symphysis Point

Once you have helped release tension in this area, add gentle movement at the SI by working on the Sacroiliac Point while inviting the horse to drop the pelvis slightly on each side. This can restore comfort, engagement, and a freer step-under behind. Watch Jim’s demo about how working on the SI point promotes movement in relaxation in this joint.

Want to learn more about these light-touch techniques that ease and reset the deeper interconnections in your horse’s body? Check out Light to the Core (DVD/Online Streaming) on our website store. Black Friday special until December 4: 25% off!

https://mastersonmethod.com/product/light-to-the-core-dvd/

11/24/2025

Today, we’re sharing a thankful message... and a special gift!

We’re grateful every day for the horses who teach us, and for the community that supports our work to help horses feel and perform at their best.

To share our thanks, our Black Friday Sale begins today and runs through December 4! Save 25% on:

🐴 Light to the Core DVD (US only) or Online Streaming
🐴 Dressage Movements Revealed Online Streaming

Click the link below to choose your preferred option (or both!).

https://mastersonmethod.com/shop/

Happy Thanksgiving, we appreciate you! 🧡🐴

11/23/2025

Have you ever wondered what really holds every muscle, organ, and nerve in place, and how it could be the key to your horse’s performance and well-being? 🐴

Check out our latest blog post by Leigh Jackson, “Fascinating Fascia,” where we explore how the connective tissue network of fascia affects movement, stress recovery, and even emotional health in the equine body. From deep myofascial lines to subtle compensations years down the track, this piece offers new insight into whole-body bodywork.

If you’re ready to look beyond the “knee” or “shoulder” and start seeing systems and connections, follow the link and discover how a relaxed, gliding fascia can make all the difference.

Give it a read, your horse might thank you for it!
https://mastersonmethod.com/fascinating-fascia/

11/21/2025

Something exciting is coming… 👀 If you’ve been wanting to dive deeper into The Masterson Method from home (or gift an amazing learning tool to a friend), keep your eyes on our posts.
November 24… you’ll want to be here. Stay tuned!

11/19/2025

Why Wednesday ⁓ My horse has tension in his neck, especially behind the jawline. Is there anything I can do with the Masterson Method® to help him?

Answer: Tension in the upper neck and jawline can make even light contact uncomfortable. If your horse braces or throws his head, move to a more comfortable area (like the lower neck) and slowly work your way back toward the poll.

If he’s still tight, try gentle Search–Response–Stay–Release (SRSR) points around the poll and jaw using Air Gap pressure to help him soften.

Once he relaxes, use the Jawline Wiggle Technique to release the poll indirectly: place a light hand on the nose, search for a blink along the jaw groove, rest with Egg Yolk pressure, then wiggle, soften, and repeat. If he fusses, pause. If he’s sensitive on the nose, use the halter instead.

For a clear visual, watch how Jim demonstrates this in the video; his soft, patient wiggle is exactly what helps the poll let go.

Additional Tips: Think micro wiggles, not big movements. Pause if he fusses and fidgets; just pause, soften, and wait until he settles, then continue. If he doesn’t like your hand on his nose, you can do the same soft wiggle using the halter instead.

If you want to learn more about how gentle techniques can support your horse’s comfort and overall well-being, take a look at our Light to the Core courses:

https://f.mtr.cool/iicqupkhez

11/17/2025

We are nearing the end of the year, and the November Masterson Method Newsletter is out now!

This month’s issue is full of all the stories and news we love hearing from Jim and The Masterson Method Team:

🍂Fall on the Farm
Jim shares autumn musings from the Midwest, complete with towering corn, last rides of the season, and some classic barn humor.

🐴 FergƱs Is Here!
Jean Abernathy’s beloved cartoon horse, FergƱs, now stars in a brand-new book featuring Jim! Pre-orders are open, and shipping will start in mid-December.

🦷 A Visit from Gretchen Deane
The annual dental check-in brought expert insights from MMCP and Natural Balance Dentist Gretchen Deane as she worked with Banjo, Griffin, and Jeremiah.

🌵 Mark & Jim Clinic Returns
The annual Considering the Horse: Mind and Body clinic with Mark Rashid is back February 13–15 in Cave Creek, AZ. Auditors welcome!

🖤Also, Black Friday is approaching, and we are preparing a great sale for all of you who want to continue learning from home! In the newsletter, you'll find all the details!

Click on the link below to read it, enjoy the photos and videos, and stay up to date on everything Masterson Method!
https://f.mtr.cool/dulchnzybn

Remember, you can always find all our newsletters on the website under Resources, along with Free Educational Videos, the Bodywork Blog, Podcasts, and Articles.

Not subscribed yet? Sign up on our website to stay updated:

https://f.mtr.cool/wdbiuhfgyh

11/14/2025

📢BIG FERGUS NEWS!📢

There's a new book from Fergus coming up that we are all going to enjoy! In this newest comic adventure, Fergus is soaring over jumps and collecting prizes… until the stress of it all starts weighing him down.
And who should appear to help him feel better? Jim Masterson!

With gentle hands and a calming presence, Jim helps Fergus unwind, release tension, and remember how good it feels to just be a horse.

Jean Abernethy captures every hilarious and heartwarming moment, and we’re thrilled to see Jim featured in such a fun yet meaningful way.

🐴Fergus and the Man Named Jim is now available for pre-order for delivery in the US, México, and Canada on our website (link below). Don’t miss this charming new chapter in the Fergus universe for $18.95! (shipping mid-December)

https://mastersonmethod.com/product/fergus-and-the-man-named-jim-book/

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Fairfield, IA
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http://www.mastersonmethod.com/

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