Once you locate an acupressure point (I would recommend
starting with GV 24 or Yin Tang) hold the flat pads of your fingers
on the general area and press down slowly. Once you find a depth
of pressure your horse is completely comfortable with, remain
still for 30 to 90 seconds to allow the horse to adjust to your
touch. Once your horse begins to quiet, you may begin to move
the skin and tissues below the surface around in slow circles.
Plant your fingers as you circle and move the skin and
hair gently with your fingers; do not slide over the hair. If
your horse holds his breath, raises his head, fusses, moves away
from you or paws, reduce your pressure and just hold gently on
the point.
Alternate your massage between simply holding steady flat-fingered
pressure and slowly circling. If your horse does not like the
circles, only use the gentle, steady pressure. Remain in contact
with the point for one to three minutes or longer. With some
horses, the longer you stay on one of these points, the deeper
they relax. Other horses will enjoy several minutes of contact
and then become restless –this is their communication that
they have had enough input on that point so you need to remove
your hand.
Signs your horse is benefiting from the work include deep
breathing, a lowered head posture, closed or droopy eyes and
overall quietness and relaxation. You can use these points repeatedly
throughout the day or working session to calm your horse. Some
horses will enjoy acupressure on all of these points; some horses
will only respond to one or two or them. Follow your horse's
body language and use the points which bring him calming.
REMEMBER: If your horse holds his breath, raises his head,
fusses, moves away from you or paws, reduce your pressure and
just hold gently on the point or try one of the other points.
Have fun !!! And let your horse's actions guide you as to how
hard to press or how long to stay on each point.
