compassionate
expert
care
for equines
WELCOME
Reid Equine Massage provides a comprehensive range of massage services to improve the well-being and performance of our equine partners. I look forward to bringing my expertise and individualized attention to your horse. Massage techniques utilized include relaxation, deep tissue, trigger point and myofascial. The foundation of each massage session is to create the level of relaxation and trust that will best enable each horse to reap the full benefits of massage.
Meet Heather
A lifelong horse lover, I grew up in N. Ireland where I first discovered my love of horses. After a break from riding in my twenties, I was drawn back to horses in my thirties and became a regular competitor on the New England hunter/jumper circuit. As much as I relished competing, it was spending time with horses and really getting to know my equine partners that I found most satisfying. Becoming an equine massage practitioner was a way to give back to the horses who give so much to us. I received my certification in equine massage through a rigorous, 10-month course of study at the Bancroft School of Massage in Worcester, Massachusetts.
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I look forward to working with your equine partner and would welcome the opportunity to discuss your horse's situation so that we can develop a shared vision for how massage can help.
Why Massage?
Massage therapy for horses offers many benefits:
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It enables relaxation
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It helps prevent injuries
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It supports peak performance
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it generates well-being
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There is evidence that horse massage dates back to ancient Egypt. But in the US, the practice of equine massage rose to prominence in the 70’s and 80’s largely due to the work of Jack Meagher. Since then, recognition of the role that massage can play in equine well-being and peak performance has continued to grow.
As with human massage, equine massage practitioners use a variety of massage techniques – ranging from relaxing, light-touch strokes to deep-tissue manipulation – to help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation – which in turn can alleviate pain and increase mobility. The particular techniques I will use on your horse will depend on their individual needs and what I learn from you, the owner, about your goals for pursuing massage for your horse. My practice is built on an evaluation of each horse as an individual before the massage session begins, to determine the best approach and the best massage techniques to employ.
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Whether your horse is a top-flight equine athlete competing at the pinnacle of the sport or an equine partner nearing the end of their working career, I know they can benefit from massage therapy. I look forward to the opportunity to bring the benefits of massage to your horse.
Services
Full Body Massage -- $85
During our initial session, I will spend time gathering information from you about your horse -- his work history, current activity level, medical history and any personality. Following this, I will take time to get to know your horse, and -- most importantly -- gain their trust. Once I have gained their trust, I will proceed with the massage, I will utilize a variety of massage strokes and techniques, tailored to your horse's needs and tolerance level. After completion of my work, you will receive a full written report for your own records. To learn more about my work, check out my blog.
Sports Massage
The benefits of pre- and post-performance massage for human athletes are widely acknowledged. Let your equine athlete enjoy the same benefits! . Pre-competition bodywork can help loosen up muscles and improve blood flow, helping your horse to move and perform at their very best. A post-competition massage can help your horse's muscles recover from competition and is also a wonderful way to reward your equine partner for their hard work in the ring. Contact me for info on shows I will be attending during summer 2023, for pricing and further info.
Please note: primary service area is Boston Metro North. If you are located outside this area, please contact me to discuss options and pricing.
Elizabeth, Topsfield MA
Heather's work on Suzy provided not only immense relief but also gave us an amazing amount of insight into what inhibits Suzy’s body movement and possible changes we could implement to support her wellbeing and functionality. Suzy’s massage sessions were so informative and truly delightful to watch.
Rose, Boxford MA
I highly recommend Heather. She is patient, attentive and understanding. My horse really enjoys his time with her.
Denise, Ipswich MA
I highly recommend Heather. She has done wonders for my boy!
Liz, Hamilton MA
Every horse deserves to be prescribed a session with Heather!! There’s nothing better than standing at the head of your horse watching it stretch a tight muscle, flubber their lips and sigh in pleasure. It’s fantastic to watch.
