EquiBalance Bodywork

22/05/2026

Lovely Ferdi enjoying some post-bodywork processing time 🌿

18/05/2026

Another stunning autumn day in the Bay! Thanks for having me Rotorua ☀️🍂🐴🐴

30/04/2026

🔴 Red & Near-Infrared Light Therapy 🔴

A closer look at one of the supportive therapies I use in sessions — red and near-infrared light therapy using the Photizo Vetcare.

A gentle, non-invasive way to support the body’s natural healing processes.

👉 How it works
This therapy delivers specific wavelengths of light into the tissue, where it interacts with the cells — particularly the mitochondria (the cell’s energy producers).

This helps stimulate ATP production, giving cells more energy to repair and function more efficiently.

The result can be improved healing, reduced inflammation and support for overall tissue health.
This approach is supported by a growing body of scientific research in both human and veterinary fields.

👉 Why it’s useful
Different wavelengths allow me to work at varying depths.

Red light targets more superficial layers such as skin and soft tissue
while near-infrared light penetrates deeper into muscles, tendons and joints.

This makes it a versatile addition to bodywork whether supporting recovery, easing soreness or addressing deeper musculoskeletal tension.

27/04/2026

✨ What to expect from an Equine Bodywork Session ✨

📌 Preparation for the session
For the best outcome please have your horse haltered, reasonably mud-free and dry. A calm environment is also ideal as it helps your horse relax and get the most benefit from the session.

🐴 Initial discussion & assessment
We’ll begin with a chat about your horse’s history along with any concerns or changes you’ve noticed.
This is followed by a biomechanical assessment (movement), static assessment and palpation. This helps me understand posture, symmetry, muscle tone and how your horse is using their body both at rest and in motion.

🤲 Hands-on bodywork
Treatment is always gentle and guided by your horse. I use a combination of techniques tailored to your horse's needs on the day. This may include soft tissue work, myofascial release, acupressure, kinesiology taping and red light therapy where appropriate.

📍 Ongoing support
Where suitable, I’ll provide simple exercises or show basic massage techniques you can use at home to help support your horse between sessions.

If you have any questions or would like to book a session, feel free to get in touch 💬

23/04/2026

Productivity level = Zero. Self-proclaimed supervisor demands cuddles only 🥰

25/03/2026

One of my most recommended homework exercises 🙌 simple, but so effective for core strength and back mobility.

Backing Up has Big Benefits

If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know this is one of Gillian’s all-time favourite exercises and for good reason.

Backing up is a simple, low-impact movement with no moment of suspension, making it ideal for horses at all levels. It can be performed both in-hand and under saddle, with the horse stepping in clear diagonal pairs.

When done correctly — with relaxation, impulsion, and a softly lowered head, backing up offers powerful benefits:
✨ Increases thoracic vertebral rotation
✨ Encourages core engagement (abdominals, thoracic sling, and hip flexors)
✨ Improves back mobility and posture
✨ Supports collection and overall way of going

This exercise asks your horse to shift more weight onto the hindquarters, maintaining flexion through the hindlimbs, lumbosacral area, and back throughout each step.

How to get started:
Begin with just 1–2 quality steps, and gradually build up to around 20. Focus on long, marching, correct steps rather than rushing or quantity.

Consistency is key. Try to include backing up as part of your daily in-hand work.

Want to perfect your technique?
Comment 'back' below and we’ll send you Gillian’s top tips video for a better back-up.

16/03/2026

Lovely start to the week being back to see the horses at Equisucceed NZ

23/02/2026

Taking a little break to spend time with my mum, sister and nephew visiting from Germany — safe to say we may have created another horse lover 🤠

01/02/2026

So excited to share that I’m now a Certified Equine Kinesiology Taping Practitioner 🎉
Another great tool to add to my toolbox to help support horses in their comfort and movement.
A big thank you to all the horse owners who supported me by letting me practise and use their horses as case studies — I’m very grateful for your support 🤗

30/01/2026

Better weather, some lovely new clients and the week finished with the best kind of bonus — foal cuddles 😍 Couldn’t ask for more.