Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes Massage Therapy

How do you know if your horse is enjoying his bodywork/massage session?

Each horse will respond to a session in a different way. You have some horses who give a big release and are very expressiveness and then there are some horses who will only give very slight responses-slow blink, chewing or licking.

If your horse shows any one of the signs listed below it shows that they are enjoying their session.

🐴licking and chewing
🐴relaxed ears and facial expression/slow blinks
🐴droopy lip
🐴yawning
🐴leaning into pressure
🐴stretching
🐴deep breathes
🐴passing gas
🐴lowered head
🐴sleepy/relaxed
🐴drooling/lips twitching
🐴softer feeling tissue

Horses love bodywork/massage sessions!
Why not message to get your equine friend booked in

£45 per horse or £40 if 3 or more horses.

Don't forget rider massage (£15) can be carried out at same appointment

Another busy week. Good mixture of human massage and equine massage. Humans ranging from piriformis syndrome and lymphedema to more relaxing treatments such as facials and head massage, plus pregnancy massage and mam to be packages. First time horses and maintenance visits 😀

Spent my day off painting my horses stable and having a spruce up ready for the autumn/winter routine starting.

Who else is getting ready for cooler days and snuggly nights?

Friday focus-groundwork

If you are a client of mine you will be aware that I often recommend groundwork to your equine friends. I'm a massive believer that groundwork should be a staple part of your routine and it isn't only an option during rehab or a period of being unable to ride.

So what is groundwork in hear you ask?

Groundwork is basically any sort of training that you might do with your horse from the ground rather than under saddle. It can include but is not inclusive of lunging, long reining, in hand pole work, horse agility and liberty work.

what are the benefits and why do I recommend it to clients?

🐴it gives you a chance to view your horse and his movements out of the saddle. Often a horse can feel one way when ridden but look completely different when observed from the ground.
🐴 increases strength, balance and proprioception (spacial awareness).
🐴 its a great way for your horse to try something new without the added pressing of having a rider present.
🐴variety and cross training. Horses love variety, it keeps them mentally stimulated aswell as keeping their muscles thinking.
🐴 helps to build a strong bond between horse and handler.

All of the horses that I see receive a tailor made plan consisting of appropriate groundwork, stretches and owner massage to carry out between sessions to help your horse achieve the best possible outcome of our session.

September availability:
Weds 4th Sept 12.30 chester le street/pelton area
Monday 9th Sept 10.30, 11.30, 1pm, 2.30pm
Thursday 12th Sept 10.30 onwards
Monday 16th Sept 10.30 onwards
Thurs 19th Sept 11.00, 1pm, 2.30pm
Tues 25th Sept 10.30, 12.30, 2.00pm

£45 per horse or £40 if 3 or more horses.

Don't forget about rider massage
£15 for 30mins back ,neck and shoulders

Still have a 1.45pm appointment free Saturday 31st August Gia Beauty Studio

Let's talk ankles 🦶

Stiff, sore ankles are a common problem for riders, myself included . This is because as out horses move beneath us, our bodies are absorbing these forces. Our ankles are basically shock absorbers (also inc Knees, hips and spine) our ankles are a joint which allow for movement in several different directional planes. The length of stirrup or discipline we complete all have an affect on how much absorption the ankles take ie when jumping we have our stirrups shorter which means the ankle needs to flex more.

Signs of possible ankle issues
Losing a stirrup-can be a sign of stiffness. Rider should try some standing in stirrups in walk and trot with a nice soft knee (no gripping for dear life) this will stretch the calf and the achilles tendon.

Pain in outside of the ankle - can be a sign that the ankle is too "floppy" and may need added support such as kinesiology taping. When riding try to concentrate on adding weight to the inside of the foot to try to stop the ankle flopping. The ankle should not move side to side- only up and down.

Tingling toes - (I myself suffer from this) this can he caused by rolling the ankles to the outside (by pointing toes in). Try concentrating on adding weight to the inside of the feet.

Aching feet - this can be caused by curling feet - innately trying to grip with the feet. Stiff feet can in turn lead to stiff lower leg. Concentrate on relaxing and spreading toes.

When riding again after a break some muscle pain is normal but persistent pain should be dealt with.

Try these exercises to help maintain strong ankles and get booked in for a massage session.

Ankle flexion
While sitting, extend your leg and flex the top of your toe backwards, holding the stretch for 15 to 20 seconds.

Seated heel raise
Place feet flat on floor and gradually lift up your heel as far as comfortable.
Slowly lower your heel back to the floor.

Standing heel raises
Stand in front of a wall or chair and Slowly lift your heels as far as possible until you are standing on your toes.
Hold for a few seconds and then slowly lower

Single leg stance
Stand on one leg, with stance leg slightly bent.
Maintain balance for 10 to 20 seconds.
Then repeat on other side

Aim to do these exercises 2 to 3 times a day starting with 2 to 3 reps (working up to 8)

Are you or someone you know taking part in the GNR this year?

With just under 2 weeks to go until the GNR , runners will be in their final stages of training.

Have you ever thought of adding massage to your run preparation aswell as in the few days following the race?

Benefits of a pre run massage inc:
🏃improved flexibility and range of movement
🏃‍♀️improved circulation and increased oxygen flow to muscles
🏃helps to relieve any muscle tension
🏃‍♀️relieves any pre race stress, which can help you to focus on the race ahead as you will be more relaxed
🏃can help improve performance by mobilising muscles and fascia and flushing toxins out from the system

A massage post run is just as important.

Benefits of a post run massage
🏃increased circulation
🏃‍♀️restores muscle balance
🏃decreases areas of tension and adhesions
🏃‍♀️deliver blood and oxygen to tissue to help aid in the repair process
🏃reduces muscle soreness and fatigue🏃‍♀️restores range of motion in joints
🏃helps to stretch muscle
🏃‍♀️increases relaxation and provides a sense of wellbeing

Leg and foot massage £20 approx 30 mins
Full body massage (with special attention to legs and lower body £30 approx 1 hour

I have availability from now until Thursday 5th September (won't massage any later due to the effect massage will have on muscles) for pre run massage and availability from Monday 9th for post run massage (this is best carried out in the 1st few days following the race)

Fully qualified in sports/deep/Remedial and various relaxation techniques, fully insured and dbs checked.

All appointments are offered on a mobile basis.

Friday focus- facial skincare

A facial is not just a treat, it is an investment in skin health. Having a facial every 4 to 6 weeks keeps your skin looking it's best aswell as providing the below benefits:

🧖‍♀️removal of dead skin cells
🧖‍♀️increased blood circulation
🧖‍♀️reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
🧖‍♀️promotion of even skin tone
🧖‍♀️hydrates dry skin
🧖‍♀️introduction or nutrients and antioxidants
🧖‍♀️prevents premature aging
🧖‍♀️reduces puffiness and under eye dark circles

During a facial your skin is cleansed, exfoliated and massaged which leaves you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. They are so much more than just a temporary fix.

I also offer facials for teenagers and men

Mini facial - ideal when you are short of time but still want to care for your skin.
Double cleanse, tone, exfoliate, tone and moisturise £12 (approx 20mins)
*can be added to massage treatment for £8

Skincare facial
Double cleanse, tone, exfoliate, tone, mask (matched to your skin needs) moisturise £20 (approx 30 mins)
*can be added onto a massage treatment for £10*

Luxury skincare facial
Double cleanse, tone, exfoliate, tone, eye mask, face mask, tone, serum, moisturise and facial massage
Includes a face and eye mask to take home £28 (approx 45 mins)

Platinum skincare facial
Double cleanse, tone, exfoliate, tone,
eye mask, face mask, tone, serum, moisturise and facial massage finished off with a luxurious hand/arm and scalp massage.
Includes a face and eye mask to take home £38 (approx 1 hour)

Appointments Gia Beauty Studio -
Saturday 31st August 1.45pm
Saturday 14th September 10am, 11.15am, 12.30, 2pm, 3.15pm
Saturday 28th September 10am, 11.15am, 12.30, 2pm, 3.15pm

Late Appointments available by request

Various dates and time available for mobile visits

Maintenance visits

Routine maintenance visits, at regular intervals throughout the year ensure that your horse feels his best and performs to his best ability.

Even when no issues are evident, a mains session is useful to identify and work on any tension or restrictions that may be affecting the horses posture/balance and risk of injury.

Horses £45 per horse or £40 if 3 or more
Riders or infact anyone who works with horses - £15 for back, neck and shoulders - can be done at same appointment as horse.

👀keep an eye on page for new maintenance packages👀

Meet the most massaged horse in the area 💆‍♂️🤣

This is Rosie, she is my 21 year old mare. Until recently (illness on my side) she has been out hacking on pretty much a daily basis with trips to pleasure rides and to the beach to do her favourite thing - flat out gallop.

Due to a dog attack around 6 years ago, she has arthritis in her hind end which means she can be stiff at times (sometimes worse than others). Now we are coming out of summer and the evenings will become cooler i know her stiffness may become more apparent. We combat this stiffness with regular hacking, polework, stretching and of course maintenance massage.

Please feel free to drop me a message if you think your horse could benefit from massage or if I can be of any help with anything.

Happy hacking 🐴

Super Saturday at salon Gia Beauty Studio - 31st August.

1.45pm slot free

Offer 1
Deluxe facial package approx 60mins £30 (saving of £10)
Facial inc facial massage, scalp massage, massage of neck and décolletage area followed by exfoliation of hands and arms, mask and hand and arm massage.

Offer 2
Luxury back treatment approx 45mins £20 (saving of £10)
Relax on a heated beele while an exfoliater is applied to your back which is removed with warm cloths before a mask is applied. A scalp massage is carried out while the mask is working it's magic. After 15mins the mask is removed and followed by a relaxing back massage incorporating body cream.

Offer 3
Holistic head massage (includes neck and shoulders) approx 30 mins £20 (saving £5)

Offer 4
Foot package approx 45 mins £30 (saving £5)
Foot soak followed by exfoliation of dead skin, moisturising Foot mask which is removed with warm cloths. Basic pedicure (trim/file nails, basic cuticle work and either clear or n**e polish) finished off with a leg and foot massage using warm oil.

*still able to book usual treatments *

Mobile apps also available other days throughout the month for usual treatments

Drop me a message to get booked in

Beautiful Mouse showing off her stretching skills.

All horses who have a session with me receive appropriate stretches and mobilisations to continue with between appointments.

Why not book your equine friend in for a session £45 per horse (£40 if 3 or more horses)

Aches, pains and stiffness yourself? Why not add on a rider massage

Horse and rider package £60 - includes full session for equine and back, neck and shoulder massage for rider (can be done seated or I can bring table if somewhere I can set up)

What do I do on a sunny day off?

Let the girls enjoy another pool day.

Working all weekend so making the most of the summer weather ☀️

Hope you are all enjoying thus lovely sunshine 🌞 😀

Massage Therapy for overall health.

Massage Therapy isn't a luxury, its a treatment that helps overall health and wellbeing. Incorporating regular massage into your life can make a difference.

Benefits of massage therapy inc:

💆‍♂️stress reduction- massage helps to relax tense muscles and releases endorphins in to the body.

💆‍♂️pain relief- massage can alleviate pain by improving circulation and easing muscle tension and stiffness. Chronic conditions and everyday tensions benefit from massage.

💆‍♂️improved sleep quality- the relaxation induced by massage can lead to better sleep patterns to help you feel more rested. Add aromotherapy for extra benefits.

💆‍♂️immune function- massage therapy can boost immune system by stimulating lymphatic circulation and reducing inflammation.

💆‍♂️focus/clarity - regular massage can improve focus and concentration by reduce mental fatigue and promoting mental clarity.

Mobile visits or salon appointments available

Tips to keep your feet happy this summer ☀️

🦶keep your feet hydrates by using a daily foot moisturiser especially after being in the sun or in water

🦶make sure to apply suncream to your feet to prevent and sunburn and protect from uv rays.

🦶wear breathable footwear to allow air to flow and reduce stretching.

🦶 trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.

🦶treat your feet to foot soaks with Epsom salt or essential oils to soothe and relax tired muscles.

🦶don't forget to complete regular foot exercises and stretches to maintain foot flexibility.

Why not book in for a foot and leg treatment. This includes foot soak, exfoliation, mask, basic pedicure (file/nail and cuticle care/buff and clear or n**es nail colour) foot and lower leg massage and advice on foot stretching.

Treatment time approximately 1 hour £40

Does Your Horse Get Headaches?
☑️ Occipital Release ☑️

The bone at the top of the head, known as the occiput, links up with the sphenoid bone beneath it. This connection allows for differentiation movements like rotation, sideways and up-and-down motions, as well as tilting to the side. When this connection gets compressed and movement is limited, the horse might develop sensitivity around the head or ears. As a result of this many believe your horse can experience persistent headaches.

www.woldsequinemassage.co.uk

Do you know when your horse is in pain?

During day to day life in the equestrian world I often hear people referring to their horses as "naughty", "grumpy" or "just taking the mick out of me" due to their behaviour whilst being groomed tacked up or ridden.

As horse owners it is important for us to know what is normal in out equines personality and recognise when these behaviour issues could be pain.

Horses don't just wake up on a morning with a plan to buck or throw you off. A horse who has developed 'behaviour ' issues may in fact be in pain.

Horses are very stoic creatures and most pain signs are very subtle. Here are some signs that your horse could be in pain:

🐴grumpy/irritable whilst being tacked up
🐴spooky under saddle
🐴bucking, rearing, napping and bolting when ridden
🐴do not like being groomed

If any of these points sound familiar, please drop me a message and book your equine friend in for an appointment.

Space in salon tomorrow -20th July and Saturday 3rd August for these packages or anything from treatment list

Gia Beauty Studio

Did you know that massage therapy can help with headaches and even migranes?

Massage therapy has been proven to be an effective measure to reduce migrane and tension headaches. Research shows that a massage received by professional therapist can decrease pain, tension, duration and frequency of headaches. Massage also eases muscle tension in the neck, jaw and shoulders which can cause the headaches. Scalp massage in particular has shown promise in reducing migrane pain.

Let me help you relieve your headache pain by booking in for a holistic head, neck and shoulder massage - £20 for around 30mins or £25 for around 45mins.

Contact me via dm or WhatsApp to arrange an appointment (salon or mobile appointments offered)

Are you or someone you know expecting a new arrival.

Pregnancy massage and mam to be packages offered in either a salon environment or in the comfort of your own home.

These are also available as a gift voucher if you would like to treat a special mam to be - lovely gift for a baby shower

Full body pregnancy massage £35 around 60 mins

🤰Mam to be package 1:🤰
Full body pregnancy massage
Foot and leg massage with foot soak and mask
Express facial
£45 for around 90mins

🤰mam to be package 2:🤰
Full body pregnancy massage inc scalp and feet (Inc's foot soak and mask and hair oil if required)
Standard facial
£50 for around 1 hour 45 mins

🤰mam to be package 3🤰
Back neck and shoulder massage
Deluxe facial
Basic manicure/pedicure
£50 for around 1 hour 45

🤰mam to be package 4🤰
Full body
Deluxe facial
Manicure/pedicure inc hand and arm mask with massage and foot and lower leg mask inc foot and leg massage.
£55 for around 2 hours

Fully qualified insured and dbs checked.

Do you know I also offer rider massage aswell as equine massage?

Benefits of massage inc:
Pain relief
Reduced muscle tension
Reduction in stress hormones
Improved recovery of soft tissue injuries
Improved range of motion through joints and body
Improved posture
Increased blood circulation
Improves suppleness and flexibility

Horse and rider massage package £60- includes:
For horse - full bodywork session (static and dynamic assessment, body work session and follow up exercise plan)
For rider - back, neck and shoulder massage inc pre assessment and follow up advice inc suitable stretches/exercises

Individual or yard visits offered.

👀keep an eye on page in next few weeks for some more services being added👀

Please dm me to book

Looking for relaxation or are you in need of some targeted remedial work? Are you or someone you know pregnant? Are you on your feet all day or do you sit at a desk? Do you have tension in your neck and shoulders or suffer from headaches?

If you answer yes to any of these why not book in with me?

Fully qualified massage therapist covering everything from relaxation to remedial/deep tissue work.

Appointments available at Gia Beauty Studio or mobile visits available (message for availability)

Dm me to book 😀

My home for the next few days. Rider massage at horse camp 🐴💆‍♀️

If you think you could benefit from rider massage please give me a shout x

Everyone and I mean everyone can benefit from massage therapy.

From children to the elderly, people who have an active lifestyle to people who maybe spend most of their time sedentary, fit and healthy people to people with long term conditions.

‼️Don't forget I also offer pregnancy massage and mam to be packages ‼️

Massage Therapy really is a fantastic way to keep your body supple and help with aches and pains. It's also brilliant for anyone who suffers headaches/migranes or have sinus issues, not to mention the positive impact it can have on your mental health

Appointments available in salon:
Monday 1st July- 12.30, 1.30, 2.30, 6.15pm
Saturday 6th July 10.30 onwards. Offering late Appointments til 7pm

Check out my page for packages

Tell me you're an esmt without actually telling me 🤣🤣

Dirty work but worth it.

And all horses have the same effect on my hands no matter how clean - its caused by grease moving to the surface during massage

The lovely jack

Do you have a child who has just finished exams and could benefit from some r and r. Look no further.

Massage can offer numerous benefits for children and teens. It not only helps to relieve stress and tension but can also help to improve circulation, flexibility and range of movement. It cam also help with headaches and muscle soreness.

Research shows that massage can help
Reduce anxiety and depression
Improve sleep
Boost immune system
Alleviate headaches
Improving posture and flexibility
Reduce muscle soreness and tension

Teen package 1
Back massage
Facial
60mins £25

Teen package 2
Full body massage
Teen facial
75mins £30

Teen package 3
Back scrub and mask - removed with hot cloths followed by 20 min back massage
Holistic head massage (head and scalp plus neck and shoulders)
90mins £35

Teen facial £15

Teen relaxing wellbeing full body massage
Approx 60mins £25

💆‍♀️please note clients under age of 16 must have a parent or guardian present throughout treatment 💆‍♀️

Do any of the following points sound like your horse?

🐴change in behaviour - is your horse usually calm and cooperative but has suddenly became very agitated or anxious?

🐴has your horse become aggressive towards you, other horses or their environment ?

🐴has your horse suddenly developed a reluctance to go forward when ridden or even when being led?

🐴does your horse look 'sad' - tense muscles around muzzle or eyes, drooping ears or unhappy expression?

If you recognise any of these signs, your horse may be uncomfortable or in pain.

Why not give equine massage a try?

My sessions involve so much more than 'just a pamper massage' (of course having a pamper is good). Each horse has static and dynamic assessments carried out, a full history taken, a full bodywork session carried out while educating owners of anything found and ways to help. All horses are given a personal aftercare plan.

Please feel free to drop me a message to discuss your equine friend and book in for an appointment.

Sorry I've been AWOL but I've had a busy few weeks.

Lots of humans seen for various treatments and ailments from migrane/headache sufferers to clients with fibro and neuro issues.

Numerous horses ranging from competitive horses, happy hackers, horses starting out and retired older horses.

We have also had a busy few weeks as a family with my eldest daughter training hard, competing and going onto claim 1st place in their cheer competition

Busy afternoon at cleadon livery last Thursday (forgot to get a few more pics 🙈) all horses showing beautifully the relaxing benefits of massage.

From sore/tight polls and jaws to tension in pecs, all of these horses gave lovely signs of release - linking, chewing , yawning and of course sleeping 🤣

I'm especially happy with the lovely Ruby. When I last visited 3 mths ago it took 2 sessions to release the tension in her poll and neck but what a difference this time. Carrying out any recommendations of exercise/stretches or owner massage between sessions really does pay off.

If you think your equine friend would benefit from a session please get in touch