Equine Bodywork: The Masterson Method
In 2021, Valissa Willwerth gave us an overview and demonstration of the equine bodywork techniques known as the Masterson Method. This discipline is an interactive form of equine bodywork that reads and follows the subtle responses of the horse to touch in order to locate and release tension and restriction in key areas of the horse’s body that directly affect performance. The techniques use light touch and gentle movement within an allowable range of motion in a relaxed state. Website for the Masterson Method: www.mastersonmethod.com
Valissa showed us many examples of the “SRSR” approach (“Search-Response-Stay-Release”). First you search for a response using a very light touch(“lighter is better”). Levels of touch range from “airgap” to “egg yolk” to “grape” to “soft lemon” to “hard lime”. You initially evaluate overall for soreness by asking for a response using the lemon/lime touch level and when you find a response you immediately lighten the touch and stay on that spot until you see the release from the horse. This release can vary-some examples are blinking their eyes, blowing the nose, licking/chewing, yawning, fidgeting, dropping their head, and shaking their head.
Valissa Willwerth is a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner who lives in South Jersey. Her business (Winning Hand Equine, LLC) works with horses of all ages, breeds, and disciplines throughout South Jersey, Greater Philadelphia and Northern Delaware regions. Visit www.winninghandequine.com or email valissaw@gmail.com or call 856-885-3439 for info.
