Structural Integration is the core of Grounded Equine Bodywork. Structural Integration is a type of manual therapy that works directly with the body’s connective tissue network, called fascia, to create ease and adaptability in movement and restore balance to the body. Working in a series of sessions to systematically unwind restriction patterns, Structural Integration is a holistic modality that seeks to identify root cause when addressing pain or restriction held within the body. Practitioners look at the body as a whole, rather than a collection of parts. This allows practitioners to come up with long lasting solutions that can be carried into everyday life.

While individual sessions of Structural Integration work well for any horse, to receive the most benefit, a series is recommended.

In the first session I assess superficial holding patterns and compensations, and gather information to guide future sessions. This session is also designed to begin building trust between myself and your horse. Trust is the keystone to all sessions and is front of mind throughout.

The second session is scheduled one week after the first. This session is designed to clear tension in the shoulders, hips, hindquarters and legs to restore freedom of movement.

Session three is scheduled one to two weeks later. In this session the focus is turned to releasing tension in the rib cage and topline to improve spinal mobility and flexibility of the horse’s barrel.

Session four is scheduled two to three weeks after the third. This session will start on the lunge line to watch the horse through a movement assessment to identify remaining holding patterns. The remainder of this session will be focused directly on releasing those areas.

Session five will be scheduled three to four weeks after the fourth session. This session closes the series, reinforcing the flexibility in the fascia of the horse, and establishing the integrated movement pattern.

Some horses require more than one series, while others do well on a maintenance schedule of a session every one to three months.

I offer a 30 minute consultation as a time for us to meet face-to-face and discuss if your horse could benefit from Structural Integration, create a custom plan for sessions, and provide a space free of expectations for your horse to get comfortable.

Going into the show season, you and your horse athlete are working hard; long weeks of training and effort go into making you the best team you can be. Structural Integration can help prevent injuries that might otherwise keep your horse out of classes and improve recovery in between.

Senior Wellness is one of my biggest passions as a bodyworker and horsewoman. Whether the goal is continued comfort to allow them to do the job they love or reestablishing balance and stability for aging with grace, I would love to be a part of your senior’s care team.

Before your horse is feeling stiff or acting sour, Structural Integration can be a tool for prevention and maintenance. Maintenance sessions are perfect for returning clients or clients looking to get their horse some extra support and develop a plan moving forward.