Balanced By NAture Massage

I have always loved animals, and have been riding horses for over 25 years. My husband and I are owned by a horse named Nigel, a retired racing Greyhound named Indy, and a Labrador Retriever named Axle. 

I have been amazed by the benefits that my horse has experienced from massage, and I wanted to be able to help him and other animals improve performance and alleviate pain using these techniques. I became certified in Equine Sports Massage Therapy in December of 2022, and in Canine Sports Massage Therapy in February of 2023.  Both massage certifications were obtained through hands-on training with Therasage EMC.  

In addition to massage certification, I have also completed training in the use of laser therapy for animals. Laser therapy can decrease pain, reduce inflammation, and accelerate wound healing.  I have completed Laser Therapy Principles for the Equine Athlete and Introduction to Companion Animal Laser Therapy training through the American Institute of Medical Laser Applications.  

Another modality that I have added to my practice is Equi-taping. Kinesiology tape has been used by human athletes since the 1980’s.  The use of kinesiology tape increases oxygen supply and circulation to the treatment area, decreasing recovery time and facilitating healing.  Increased blood and lymph flow helps remove toxins and metabolic by-product build-up, thereby allowing muscles to work more efficiently. Depending on the application technique used, kinesiology tape can assist muscle function or relax muscles. It can be used to decrease swelling, inflammation and associated pain. It can also be used to support joints, tendons and ligaments. Equi-taping pairs well with a massage to support the effect of the treatment. I am  certified by Equi-tape, and have also completed equine and canine Kinesio Taping courses through Kinesio University.  I am also trained in human taping through ROK Tape, and have personally seen the benefits of taping to improve muscle injury as well as promote correct posture when riding.

I also offer BEMER Horse Blanket treatments.  The BEMER blanket is a highly effective PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) device. Devices that use PEMF technology for therapy produce electromagnetic fields with various waveforms and frequencies that stimulate healthy muscles in order to improve and facilitate muscle performance.  This treatment is an excellent complement to hands-on massage. It improves microcirculation, promotes healing, supports regeneration, and speeds recovery. The BEMER blanket can reduce muscular back pain in horses. It enhances physical performance and suppleness during training or when preparing for competitions. The BEMER blanket can help your horse relax before and after exertion. It can also provide valuable support while healing, including recovery from tendon/ligament/muscle injury.

In my practice, I focus on the the cues that the horse or dog is giving me.  There is nothing more rewarding than a big yawn, lick and chew, or a quiet exhale, telling me that I am helping my patient feel better.  Our animals give us so much; I want to help them feel their best. Balanced By Nature Massage’s mission is to enhance your animal’s quality of life in a professional and safe manner.