Bridging the gap

In today's world, there seems to be two very extreme ends of the spectrum. Horses are not exempt from this… especially in the wellness arena.
 
So where do I fall on this spectrum of extreme equine beliefs???
I like to consider myself as “Bridging the Gap”. I am a horse owner and competitor myself. I understand and acknowledge that horses in work are athletes. But, I am also an Equine Professional Specializing in Wellness. I understand that there are a lot of horses being asked to do things their bodies cannot do, and so many horses will keep trying until they just cannot any longer.
 
With all bodies, there will always be a degree of discomfort. There will always be a direction or certain movement that is more challenging for certain individuals than others. There will always be asymmetries that exist in the body. Some that are present from birth and some that are acquired from compensation patterns. Does this mean that no horse should be ridden who exhibits any or all of these? Not in my opinion. It means that the horse needs help. It needs support and facilitation of the inherent healing God provides all living beings.
 
This support should include proper nutrition, training, saddle fit, hoof care, dental care, veterinary care, and whole horse bodywork. Does this mean I am an advocate for painful horses being worked? No. There is a difference in pain and discomfort. Pain is an indicator of dysfunction in the body. It is used to protect the body and prevent further injury. Discomfort is an indicator of tension (muscle/fascia), a structural weakness, OR maybe just a challenging day. Horses are sensitive to changes just like we are. Sometimes we wake up and just don’t feel 100%. Sometimes they don’t either. Even something like a weather shift can create stress in the horse’s digestive system and create some discomfort that presents as a subpar ride or performance.
 
So, while I am here “Bridging the Gap”, I will continue to be pro letting the horse have a voice and always defaulting to investigating possible pain first if a horse is performing subpar. At the same time, I will also continue to advocate for growing stronger athletes with healthy and correct bodies that are able to perform as partners for many years to come.
 
It is all about the big picture. With the LISTEN Approach, I provide a Christ-centered approach to holistic equine care so that horses with mystery lameness, chronic pain, and behavioral issues experience healing from the inside out.

 Blessings,
Amy
Peak Performance & Wellness Solutions
A Christ-centered approach to holistic equine care.