Would you like to enable your horse to perform and feel better, to overcome old limitations and restrictions and reach its full potential? In this book, Jim Masterson, Equine Massage Therapist for the 2006 and 2008 and 2010 USET Endurance Teams, and for equine clientele competing in FEI World Cup, Pan American and World Games competitions, teaches a unique method of equine bodywork, in which the practitioner recognizes and follows the responses of the horse to touch to release tension in key junctions of the body that most affect performance. This practical book: * has step-by-step instructions, photographs and illustrations * is ideally suited to accompany you to the barn, where you will practice the Masterson Method� techniques on horses. * includes chapters with Tips & Techniques, anatomical explanations and examples from Jim's practice help deepen your understanding. * has a "quick reference" section will point you to exercises that are specifically suited to your particular discipline, may it be dressage, endurance, eventing or barrel racing, or others in the vast realm of horse sports. By using these techniques, and knowing the responses to look for, you are able to: * achieve a release of accumulated stress in deep-seated key junctions of the horse's body that affects mobility, comfort, attitude, training and performance * restore muscular and structural balance, and natural alignment * enable your horse to perform optimally and respond to your training without stiffness and pain * achieve new levels of communication and trust with your horse that spill over into other areas of interaction.

Starting with a simple setting that can easily be accomplished with few special preparations, readers will learn, step-by-step, how to make a deep and meaningful connect with their partner's body. Using a combination of strokes from the most time-honored massage traditions, they will learn to be mindful of where their partner holds stress and tension. As the massage continues, readers will enter into a profound nonverbal dialogue with their partner, learning much from the simple act of contact with another body. All of the techniques are illustrated with black-and-white photographs. Elegant and refined, this book is a perfect gift for a special someone or a friend in love.

A beautifully illustrated introductory guide to the healing powers of a massage, from traditional massage to shiatsu and reflexology. The Book of Massage is the classic guide to the relaxing and healing skills of the hands. Featuring both Eastern and Western methods, it presents step-by-step, beautifully illustrated instructions on everything from traditional massage to shiatsu and reflexology. The Book of Massage offers easy-to-follow techniques for giving the perfect massage, including advice on creating the right setting and suggestions for using aromatic oils and lotions. Now revised and updated with fresh color photos and drawings throughout, The Book of Massage is a simple and comprehensive handbook that reveals how you can experience the myriad benefits of giving and receiving a soothing massage.

A long-awaited update of the classic equine massage reference Fully revised and updated, this new edition provides step-by-step instructions and more than 180 photographs and diagrams to help riders and professionals alike master equine massage techniques. This authoritative guide provides detailed information about massage movements, pressures, rhythms, and sequences. It includes: * An introduction to equine anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology * Practical information on stretching and hydrotherapy * Four new chapters covering equine myofascial massage, Equine TMJ (temporomandibular joint) Dysfunction Syndrome, Equine Muscular Compensation Phenomenon, and saddle fitting * A conformation check-up routine * Information about areas of stress specific to each discipline and different massage techniques and routines for different situations Equine massage enhances the performance and quality of life of horses by increasing flexibility, reducing stiffness, improving attitude, and shortening recovery time from injury. In addition to its many health benefits, equine massage strengthens the bond between the horse and his owner, trainer, or groom. Using these techniques, you'll learn to "see" with your hands and sense areas that need special attention. Equine Massage, Second Edition is truly a hands-on guide to proven massage techniques that improve a horse's well-being.

Relieve pain, alleviate tension, increase relaxation, and recover and prepare for physical activities. Fun, modern illustrations and intuitive organization combined with the expertise of licensed massage therapist Rachel Beider allow you to quickly implement this powerful wellness tool. Massage therapy is a great way to connect and engage with your loved ones, applying healing techniques to reduce pain and tension while increasing relaxation and enjoyment. With this guide, learn how to give a deeply enjoyable therapeutic massage to family members, friends, or oneself. Beautifully illustrated and designed and with easy-to-follow instructions, Massage for Beginners is the perfect guide for learning the fundamentals of giving a really great massage. The Press Here! series offers contemporary takes on traditional hands-on healing practices for a new generation of practitioners. These introductory guides feature easy-to-access organization, clear instructions, and beautiful illustrations of each technique. Other Press Here! topics include reiki, reflexology, and acupressure.

This text gives instructors and students a structured format for teaching and learning ethics and standards of practice for massage therapy. Discussion topics include core industry standards of practice, laws, morals, rules, and regulations. It is an ideal textbook for ethics courses in massage therapy programs and prepares students for the ethics questions on the National Certification Exam. The book guides students through the process of putting ethical standards into practice, and explains what is expected of them in a professional setting. Role-playing exercises and example scenarios prepare students for situations and dilemmas that arise in practice.