Kelsie's EquiTouch

06/15/2017

Hey everyone, it has been a while since I have posted sorry about that! Life has been crazy lately. Just wanted to check in and let you know I'm still massaging horses for anyone who has been wondering! If you have any questions please feel free to ask or send me a message!

Massage therapy is a great option for any horse in or out of training, because massage helps to maintain the whole body in a better physical condition.

Thank you all for your support!

02/01/2017

What does an equine sports massage therapist do?

I often get asked this, and thought it would be nice for y'all if I went a little further into detail with what I do.

The equine sports massage therapist will perform an initial evaluation, which locates tight muscles, tense muscles, well developed muscle groups and under developed muscle groups. Which than allows them to best determine the areas/muscles that need the most attention. Or even which muscles they stress the most within their discipline.

She/he may ask about your riding schedule, your tack and the horse's daily routine. Armed with that knowledge and the results of the evaluation, the E.S.M.T will use several different techniques to relax, stretch and tone the horse's muscles. If you participate in a particular discipline, the E.S.M.T can focus on the muscles most used by your activities and may also advise you as to which of the horse's muscles are not used much by your current activities.

The horse will likely enjoy much of the massage. Even when people don't think or feel their horses tense there can still be some tension happening.
Stimulating circulation and relieving minor tension or stiffness is so relaxing; it feels delightful to the horse just as much as a person would enjoy it. The horse may stretch out so that the E.S.M.T can work directly on a particular muscle. He may lower his head, or c**k a hip to relax muscles so that the E.S.M.T may work on them more effectively. He may even press into the strokes when the pressure and release are feeling good.

The horse may not enjoy everything done during the massage, however. Remember, a deep sports massage is a therapy...not a relaxing spa visit.
Areas of tension, particularly in areas with long-standing issues, may require more time or more pressure to relax. While the therapist is working on such areas, it could be somewhat uncomfortable for the horse. The E.S.M.T may find a particularly tense area or a knot, which requires strong manipulation to relieve. She/he may be separating/stretching muscle fibers to increase flexibility; she/he may be working to relax an especially contracted muscle.
All this takes effect under the skin, but the results of this work are very noticeable. The horse may feel tender in reaction to this work for a day, or even several days if the issue was severe, but when they have shaken it off, they will feel much more relaxed and more flexible. They could likely be capable of efforts that far exceed their previous performances.
Their range of motion and comfort levels when using the involved muscles can greatly improve. The benefits of sports massage therapy for your horse are outstanding.

This therapy works, just use it, give it a chance and see the benefits yourself. Your horse will love you for it! Their movement, mobility, health and demeanor will/should show a difference.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask them!

12/25/2016

It has been a while since I posted, just want to wish y'all merry Christmas! 🎅

Christmas has finally arrived! I would like to take the time to THANK all of my clients for giving me the opportunity to assist them with all of their horses needs this past year.
It is truly a blessing to be able to work with all of you!
I loved working with every single one of you and your amazing companions! Helping your horses reach their max potential and optimum health.

If you are interested in getting your horses done, please don't hesitate on getting a hold of me. During the winter months we tend not to rife as much and massage will aid in the cold months. Whether it be to help keep them in shape or aid in sore and achy muscles and joints. If you wish to work with an experienced equine sports massage therapist(E.S.M.T.) that can help you every step of the way, I am here to answer any questions and assist you and your horses in any way I can!

I hope your holiday weekend is filled with lots of love and laughter as you celebrate with your family in your Idaho Homes or wherever you may be.
We all have much to be thankful for this year and Christmas is the perfect time to let everyone in our lives know how much we appreciate them.

Wishing you and yours lots of festive cheer and prosperity this Christmas and New Year!

Thank you all for you support and business!
-Kelsie (certified E.S.M.T)
☺😊😘💚

11/07/2016

Yes! And because of that one horse that lit a fire in my soul I want to aid as many as I can with massage!
Allowing them to be their best, perform their best and feel their best.
To help muscles heal and stay healthy.
To strengthen them and their ability to change someone elses life.
This is why I love what I do!



https://www.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

11/05/2016

Hey everyone! I'm headed to burley to work on a clients horse if anyone else in that area is interested let me know and I may be able to squeeze in another!

10/22/2016

"I discovered that the horse is life itself, a metaphor but also an example of life's mystery and unpredictability, of life's generosity and beauty, a worthy object of repeated and ever changing contemplation."

Treat your beloved equine companion to a deep tissue massage, and he'll treat you to much more than you could imagine! 😊😄

Health Benefits include:

Better performance
More relaxed mentally & physically
Happier attitude
Extending life by improving mobility
Among many, many more benefits!

Do you own a horse?
Do you compete in the show ring for hunter/jumpers, western, or dressage?
The racetrack? Or simply own a horse because of the love of the animal for its nobility, beauty, and grace?
Want to improve the quality of life and performance of your horse? Get a little "edge" over your competition?

Then consider equine massage!
Horses are just like humans. Muscles are constantly being used for performance and posture and can often get overworked, sore, or knotted. When a restriction occurs within the muscle, performance is reduced or possibly even hindered to the point of lameness. With massage, those areas are located, treated, and relaxed.

If you haven't tried it or if you have, If you had success with it or had a bad experience the first round with the therapist or the horse responding differently than you expected. Try a different therapist or try the massage.

It truly works and benefits our equine companions more than you realize.

Each session take anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on the horses tolerance and what pace they chose to go at.

I am located in terreton Idaho, and I serve the surrounding areas.
Please if you are interested or have any questions or comments, message me comment or let's discuss whatever it is that is on your mind relative to equine massage.

Thank you all for your support and for your shared love and passion towards the equine members in our lives.



https://www.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

09/06/2016

Love this!
I have some openings for horses to get massaged, if you're interested, your horse is sore, acting off, or for a follow up. Send me a message or text and let's get your companion scheduled!

08/29/2016

So blessed to have had them come into mine and to be able to give back to them the best way I can!

08/13/2016

Tag was a Mini that I had the opportunity to work with a few times last year! Loved working with him!

08/03/2016

This statement is so true, I love it!

While I have ya here I thought I'd share when not to have your horse massaged(I get asked often figured I'd let you know)

1. If they have cancer-this is more a personal choice of the owner to make because the massage can cause the cancer to spread but it could also aid and alleviate pain. By speeding up the metabolism it could cause a condition which may be isolated to spread.

2. If they have a fever-sports massage is a very intense therapy you're opening all the muscles causing their metabolism to speed up, with the fever being the body's way of fighting infection, there could be a major healing crisis.

3. If the horse is I'm shock-massage lowers blood pressure, and when the horse is in shock the blood pressure is already low, making it to risky to work on them.

I also get asked if there are any bad side affects to having your horse worked on. I wouldn't say they are bad or harmful but the two most common(doesn't mean it happens often just if something does happen this is it) affects are:

1. Your horse breaks out in hives, due to toxins being released and the body's way of getting the toxins out

2. They appear more lame then the did before the massage. Sometimes the toxins from misuse and overuse get built up for so long that the only way it can get better is by appearing worse first. When you're working over the entire body of a horse that is super sensitive and stiff you can only apply so much pressure, but that light pressure massage still has an effect on the horses body, which usually makes an appearance this way. Its the follow up massages that allow you to delve deeper into the muscles and apply more pressure which on turn allows a more drastic benefit from the massage.

Hope you guys got a little more info from this, please if you have any questions at all, comment below or message me and I will answer the best I can! ☺😄
Thank you all for your friendship, business and love of horses!

https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

07/27/2016

How true is this statement?!

07/14/2016

Practice makes perfect! Spoiled horse being the therapists companion ☺😍😆

07/13/2016

Fact: 60% of the horses entire anatomy is made up of muscle 💪

Fact: there are approximately 174 treatable points on the horses entire body that a sports massage therapist may treat 👐

Fact: ancient Chinese used massage techniques on both animals and people, as early as 3000 B.C.

Equine massage therapy has become a popular preventative and remedial therapy for equine athletes. You should see a small or drastic change/benefit after just one massage. If after 3 you aren't seeing or feeling an improvement the problem is not muscular, and you should seek aid from your shoer or veterinarian.

As well as being a tool for remedial treatment of specific injuries, massage therapy is popular as a preventative tool.

In addition to the direct physical effects of the specific strokes and pressure of equine massage which can release tension within muscles, massage therapy also improves the well-being of the horse by improving circulation, either soothing or stimulating the nervous system and aiding in digestion.

There are some signs you can look for to determine whether your horse might benefit from massage therapy:

Shortened strides

Sore back

Stiffness, unwillingness to bend to the left or right

Problems picking up the canter, bucking during transitions

Tripping and stumbling

Change in demeanor

A horse doesn't have to be an athlete to benefit from massage therapy. Just fooling around in the pasture, a horse can pull a muscle and come up sore. Ever seen horses galloping in a muddy field, slip and catch themselves? Imagine how you would feel if the same thing happened to you -- you might pull a groin muscle or some other muscle and feel the effects for days. Horses that are sore like this can't possibly perform at their fullest potential and very likely will be uncomfortable, even just standing in the stable.

My name is Kelsie, I am a certified equine sports massage therapist, I love what I do!
I've been asked many times why I chose to get into this therapy, and there are so many reasons why! I mean seeing the benefits and change it brings to our equine companions is enough to make me want to do it.
The main reason however is I just want to give back to the amazing animals that give so much for us, if I can help them in any way I want to do it!

If you haven't tried it, if you want to try it get a hold of me and let's work something out!
I charge $40 per horse, depending on distance.
I offer multiple horse discounts
It takes approximately 1 hour 30 min. Sometimes less sometimes more depending on the horse and how often they are being massaged or used.

This is a great therapy with guaranteed results physically and mentally for you equine companions.

Check out my page for more info, reviews or with any questions and contact info!

https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

My name is Kelsie Baxter I am a certified E.S.M.T.
I apply deep tissue massage to your horses entire

07/09/2016

Beautifully said ☺😆

07/08/2016

Got my new business cards today!!!! ☺😍💚👏

07/07/2016

Loved working with the fabulous brambles yesterday! Thanks so much Winnie for allowing me the opportunity to work on him, I look forward to hearing how he is doing and future work with you both! ☺😄😆

07/04/2016

Happy Independence day everyone! Be safe, have fun but most of all don't forget how we got here!

06/25/2016

Had a great time up in Victor today, met and worked on a new client (Emmy). Thanks to Angie, for allowing me the opportunity to work with this mare and introduce massage to you and your family. I hope you see the benefits of this great therapy, and look forward to hearing from you!

06/25/2016

Had to share this with everyone! I love that being a certified equine sports massage therapist requires a hands on approach, there is so much to learn through touch alone with our equine friends!

06/23/2016

Had a great time talking with the Hamer, ID 4-H kids about the benefits of equine sports massage! Big thanks to Tracey for the invitation and opportunity!

06/21/2016

You should see immediate, dramatic and lasting results in 1 to 3 massages if the problem is muscular. Very often a horse’s issue can be resolved with just one massage!

BENEFITS OF SPORTS MASSAGE

Enhances muscle tone and increases range of motion
Increases flexibility- which can help prevent injury.
Removes spasms and adhesions in the muscles
Speeds recovery to injured muscle tissue.
Increases the flow of synovial fluid for joint health
Releases toxin build-up and promotes increased circulation
Restores mobility to injured muscle tissue
Reduces stress
Creates balance in the body
Generally improves the disposition of the horse

DOES MY HORSE NEED SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY?

All horses are athletes that frequently overuse, misuse or injure their muscles and can therefore benefit from Sports Massage Therapy. Older horses that have had to compensate for injuries and imbalance for years, to young horses just starting their training, can benefit from Sports Massage Therapy.

Equine Sports Massage Therapy (ESMT) can help with the following:

inhibited motion
shortening of stride
stiffness
head tossing
bucking and kicking
difficulty with lateral bending
tracking unevenly
girthing problems
showing signs of resistance or refusal
and many more muscle related issues…

Equine Sports Massage Therapy helps injured muscles to heal and healthy muscles to stay healthy, flexible and pain free.

I charge $40 per horse. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to massage a horse, sometimes less or more, depending on the horse and their tolerance level. I like to work with the horse not against them.

A discount will be given for two or more horses massaged at the same barn on the same day
A discount will be given for maintenance massages
A trip fee will apply to distances greater than a 40 mile radius of Terreton, Idaho

https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

06/15/2016

Business is good, my clients are amazing....I couldn't feel anymore blessed with the horses I work with and have met. Thank you for your support, friendship, and business!!!
Have you tried equine sports massage on your horse?
Do you have any questions on massage and the benefits?
Feel free to chat with me or Book your horses next massage!

https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

05/22/2016

Purely amazing in both strength and mind
I could never replace this bond of mine
Since I was little I wanted to fly
You gave me wings to touch the sky
Care free am I astride your back
Tenacity neither of us lack
You hold the key to my soul
To you my horse, I will always go.
There is such beauty and grace in each step you take, I'm so blessed to be gifted with your grace.
Look back at our struggle for freedom,
Trace our present day's strength to it's source;
And you'll find that our pathway to glory
Is strewn with the bones of the horse

For the horses in our lives that have made a difference and shown us the true meaning of peace and friendship!

My mission as a sports massage therapist is to help and assist as many horses as possible. To enable their bodies to have full range of motion. To relieve them of soreness, aches and pains. To allow them to be the best they can be and to feel the best they can. To perform to their best ability for themselves as well as their riders. To give back to them for all that they give for us.

Horses are truly remarkable creatures, and I am so blessed to have them in my life! Thank you all for your support in what I do and for your shared passion and love of our equine companions!

If interested in what I do please contact me with any questions, check out my page if you would like as well!
https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

05/03/2016

A long post, but very informative and worth the read to all equine personnel. If you have any questions or concerns please contact me through message or comment below. God bless you and god bless our horses!

Signs your horse may benefit/need equine massage:

Shortened strides
Incorrect canter lead
Problems with lateral work
Hollowing of the back
Head carriage issues
Stiff on one rein
Bucking or rearing
Toe dragging
Regularly being on the forehand and not engaging hindquarters
Refusing or knocking down fences uncharacteristically

Muscular tension or vertebral misalignments can be the cause of numerous riding problems. If your horse is not responding to something you are asking him to do, it can be because his movement is being restricted by muscle tightness or underdevelopment, or a joint mobility problem. Giving the correct aids so your horse understands is also of paramount importance, but a massage and passive stretching could greatly improve your horse’s way of going. Releasing the muscles of any spasms and stress points, and manipulating any stressed joints, will allow him to move more freely and help overcome problems alongside correct schooling.

If your horse shows any of the following behavioural signs they may benefit from a treatment:

Unhappy being groomed
Irritated being tacked up
Not standing still to mount
Kicking out
Started to bite

Horses are very tolerant animals and will withstand a lot of discomfort/pain before asking us for help, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as bad behaviour. Some traits could be psychological but massage can also have a powerful effect on the mind as well as the body. The bad behaviour could be your horse’s way of telling you that he is in pain or has discomfort which is generally putting him in a bad mood!

Treatments can also help horses suffering from:

Arthritis
Laminitis
Intermittent lameness
Delayed recovery after competition
Been cast
Had saddle fitting problems
Suffered a fall or other injury
Uneven muscle development

My name is Kelsie Baxter I am a certified equine sports massage therapist. My base rate is $40 per horse, depending on mileage the price may go up. I have had a steady amount of cliental and I am sure they would agree that massage truly does work.
I am located in Terreton Idaho however I travel to you.
Summer is almost upon us and I'm starting to get booked up, don't miss your chance to try and see the benefits of this amazing therapy!

https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

04/21/2016

Rise above your inner fears, you are worth it!

04/15/2016

Your horse will work happier and perform better with massage therapy!

I would like feedback, comments, opinions on your outlook to equine massage therapy! Have you tried it? Would you try it? What did/do you think of it? What was your experience with it, were you satisfied... Why or why not? Let's talk about it?!

With over 4yrs experience as a Certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist and with over 400 massages successfully completed. I will help your horse function at his or her best, to the best of my ability!

Equine Massage Therapy -

An equine sports massage therapy session with Me, which takes 1.5 – 2 hrs, includes –

An evaluation of the horses body for starts to pin point problem areas to focus on
Followed by Deep Tissue Massage the entire body head to tail, treating points/spasms as I go with direct contact (acupressure)

What is the point of Equine Massage Therapy ?

To release your horses muscle tension, tightness, spasms and knots. Which then allows your horse’s muscles to function at their best.

What Horses Can Benefit From Equine Massage Therapy ?

Performance horses of all riding disciplines and levels of work.

Horses currently in training at any level.
Horses who work at irregular intervals.
Horses with new or old injuries or joint problems.
Horses on stall rest, limited work or turn out.
Horses that are highly strung or tense – such as thoroughbreds.
Horses who are elderly or less active

All of these situations can contribute to muscle tightness which causes impaired muscle flexibility, discomfort and muscle strain. This can lead to muscle resistance, poor overall performance and unwanted behavior issues.

How Does Equine Massage Therapy Help These Issues ?

Equine Massage Therapy will release endorphins (natures pain killer) which in turn allows your horse’s muscles to become more flexible and supple releasing muscle tension and tightness. Improved performance, improved attitude toward work and a much happier horse are the result !

How can I Tell When My Horse Needs Equine Massage Therapy ?

If your horse displays any of the following behaviors or has any of the following Symptoms – then your horse is trying to tell you that he / she needs an Equine Massage Therapy session !

Head Tossing.
Displays resistance, not happy in his / her work.
Sore back and / or saddle / girthing issues.
High headed, hollow backed.
History of injuries and / or joint problems and / or arthritis.
Bucking with lead changes, swapping leads.
Attitude Problems or “Off” for no reason.
Your horse becomes a “worrier” or a “stress monster.”

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It to Get an Equine Massage Therapy Session for Your Horse ?

Yes definitely! It’s never too late to help your horse be more comfortable, more flexible and happier to work with you !

Please Note: That Equine Massage Therapy is not a substitute for proper veterinary care, but it does complement it

https://m.facebook.com/Kelsies-EquiTouch-414696365368527/

My name is Kelsie Baxter I am a certified E.S.M.T.
I apply deep tissue massage to your horses entire