Masterson Method Certified Practitioner, also incorporate Equine Myofascial Release (MFR) techniques. The horse is the ultimate prey animal. When feeling threatened by something in the environment, he's hard-wired to run away first and ask questions later. Consequently, horses try not to show discomfort in their body. They hide it until lameness or sickness develops that they can no longer hide. To show weakness means to likely be cast out of the herd, and predators are alert, always looking for a sign of weakness. With the Masterson Method, as I run my hand lightly over the horse's body or move a part of the body, such as the leg or neck, through a range of motion in a relaxed state, I observe subtle changes in the horse’s body language, often merely the blink of his eyes. When I observe such a “blink”, it means that the horse’s body is telling me there is something there that the horse needs help with. The horse neurologically cannot stop his eye from blinking when I get near an area of special discomfort if I'm using a level of pressure that he can’t brace against. By recognizing and following the responses of the horse, I can help him to release deep-seated tension on his own. Thus, the Masterson Method is a technique of lightness, and unlike a traditional massage, the horse actively participates in the process. What is Myofascial Release (MFR)? Myofascial Release (MFR) works specifically with the fascia to relieve the tightness that causes muscle restrictions. Fascia is connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber and muscle in place. When stressed, it tightens. Fascial restrictions can reduce range of motion, create pain, weakness, and even lameness. Myofascial release is a hands-on, whole body technique. It applies gentle sustained pressure on the myofascial connective tissue to follow and release restriction.
