The First And Second Horse Massage Techniques

Effleurage Effleurage is a technique used to relax and prepare the horse for massage. It begins with an open-palmed stroke down the muscle we wish to massage, with light pressure applied to the muscle. This relaxes the horse and helps it get used to the masseuse, showing that the person isn’t a threat. It can be used to stimulate and relax, depending on the speed of the strokes. This helps circulation in the area, increasing temperature and releasing endorphins as the horse relaxes into the massage. Below is the effleurage technique.

Petrissage Petrissage, unlike effleurage, involves applying pressure against certain release points of the horse. These can involve kneading, wringing, squeezing and deep vibrations. Pressure and release help to stimulate the muscle and thus, stimulate growth and healing in the area. The technique simulates the natural bunching and release of the muscle. Below is the petrissage technique.

I want to give credit to The Naturally Healthy Horse where I found theses tips.