Hayes Equine Sports Massage

21/02/2026

It’s been great being back to work this week after breaking my arm.

I’ve been matching the horses and getting all the great benefits from kinesiology tapes, just a few include:

• Decreasing pain.
• Adding stability to the muscles and joints (I’ve definitely needed that this week), as well as;
• Reducing further injury.
• Improving lymph and blood circulation.
• Increasing proprioception and in turn promoting proper movement.

There are a variety of tapings in all shapes and sizes that can be used and applied and each one is applied with the specific needs of each horse in mind.

01/02/2026

Not the best start to 2026.

First, I broke my arm, then I had to try and poultice my horse's foot (he didn't want me to). Not easy but we got there.

Less than a week before I got hurt I hung this picture on my wall, tempting fate? Maybe, but who doesn't have a little misfortune now and again.

So what were the opportunities from the misfortunes? Figuring out how to poo pick and push a wheelbarrow with one hand for one - doesn't involve bailer twine but instead a lead rope. Also realising it's ok to go a bit slower and ask for help sometimes to name just a few.

Things don't always go to plan. Usually not with horses, but I invite you to look for an opportunity when things do go wrong.

Don't worry I won't start doing inspirational quotes every month, but let's look forward to a new (hopefully drier) month.

26/01/2026

A lovely review from the wonderful Katie Adamson Equine Services.

06/10/2025

What a great evening we had on Friday. I gave a talk and demo about Equine Bodywork and all the modalities I use and Amanda Martin-Smith of Chapel Farm Equine Assisted Learning gave a fabulous talk on Natural Horsemanship. We hope everyone enjoyed it.

23/09/2025

Every treatment is different.

Not just from horse to horse but even each session with the same horse. Their body could be different or their response could be.

Sometimes a horse could be fidgety or 'nibbly' and sometimes they can just go into the 'zone'. They are so peaceful and relaxed the whole atmosphere of the yard can change. It doesn't just have an impact on one horse but others too.

I was recently treating a regular client and she was so relaxed it affected the horse next to her which half way through just lay down and slept. Normal you might think but her owner was shocked. Apparently the companion next door only ever lies down when the horses are alone.

I could feel the absolute serenity of the moment and so could they.

This picture is from a previous session where the horse being massaged lay down before the session was over, she just wanted to rest. I know I've fallen asleep getting a massage before.

Really powerful how not just what we do with horses but our intent to help them and creating a calm space for them can have a big impact.

21/09/2025

FREE talk Friday 3rd October - still a few spaces left.

Helping Horses and their ability to Help Us.

Discover with Samantha the benefits and reasons why Equine Bodywork is so good for our horses, not just physically but also how it can help create balance emotionally.

Learn with Amanda how Natural Horsemanship techniques can develop a deeper connection with our horses to build a more rewarding relationship.

Please contact either Samantha or Amanda to reserve your place.
Hayes Equine Sports Massage or Chapel Farm Equine Assisted Learning Centre.

16/09/2025

My little pot of gold 💛 🪙

10/09/2025

Ray of sunshine on a rainy day 💛

08/09/2025

What a treat today, beautiful view and massaging a gentle giant.

24/08/2025

Ear massage - is that a thing?

Yes, and horses love it.

Many horses are described to me as headshy but often I find a reason why; the atlas (first cervical vertebrae in the neck) is rotated so one side is higher than the other, or there might be tension at the poll as just a couple of reasons.

Ears are incredibly mobile, massage not only helps to release the muscles around and in the ear but also the fascia which extends far beyond.

It's such a treat for a horse who doesn't often have this area touched.

Contact me today to book an appointment - Whatsapp / Messenger / Email / Phone.

17/08/2025

𝗥𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗽𝘆 - included with every session.

Working on the body at a cellular level by using wavelengths of red and infrared LED light to promote healing.

• Energise injured, old or damaged cells.
• Aid musculoskeletal health.
• Increase blood flow.
• Reduce muscle spasms / trigger points.
• Increase release of endorphins and serotonin for feel good factor.

Used exactly where it’s needed for acute and chronic conditions so the horse gets the most out of every treatment.

Contact me to book an appointment – Whatsapp / Messenger / Email / Phone

www.hayesequinesportsmassage.co.uk

05/08/2025

FREE massage talks throughout the summer! If you want to find out how the bodywork I offer can help your horse feel great and have a great evening with friends get in touch with me to arrange.

Recent research shows that oxytocin—often called the “bonding” or “feel-good” hormone—is released in response to certain types of touch, including therapeutic techniques like massage and myofascial release. While oxytocin is known for fostering relaxation and emotional connection, it also plays a key role in promoting healing and supporting tissue repair.

In horses, oxytocin release can:
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Promote a sense of safety and trust
• Strengthen emotional bonds
• Modulate pain
• Enhance the body’s ability to rest, digest, and repair

Massage therapy that uses calm, intentional touch can help stimulate oxytocin, supporting both the physical and emotional well-being of the horse.

All bodywork is not equal.

https://koperequine.com/massage-with-myofascial-release-for-building-self-confidence/

https://koperequine.com/heres-a-list-of-things-you-may-not-yet-know-about-massage/