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Joe became interested in equine body work more than 20 years ago, and began to realize the importance of seeing the horses that he was shoeing as more than just feet to be worked on--in short, he began developing an eye for seeing The Whole Horse, which led to the development of….
| Touch ‘N Release™ Body Work |
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| Joe began learning about connecting the entire equine body by studying the methods of: |
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Linda Tellington-Jones’ TTouch Method |
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Dr. Tony Enos, veterinarian and equine chiropractor who incorporates bio-mechanics in his practice |
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Tony Gonzalez, farrier and developer of Proper Balance Movement (P.B.M.), a method of skeletal and muscular alignment for both horse and rider |
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Jack Meagher, renowned sports therapist for Olympic-level athletes, both human and equine, and author of "Beating Muscle Injuries for Horses" |
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Michele Kaplan, world class equestrian sports massage and manipulation expert utilizing neurokinesiology techniques [The art of reconnecting nerve pathways to damaged or sore muscles] |
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As Joe studied and applied these varied methodologies, he began to blend his different experiences, trainings and skills to develop his own unique method of bodywork called Touch ‘N Release™. Using simple techniques by applying light pressure and incorporating bio-mechanics and neurokinesiology, the nerve pathways are reconnected, thereby alleviating soreness and pain, which often result in negative behavior and poor performance.
“The horse’s brain is like a generator – it sparks the energy that runs throughout the horse’s body. The nervous system is the conduit which channels energy flow throughout the horse. When that system is compromised by trauma, stress or injury the energy flow is blocked, resulting in a horse with a short circuit.”
– Joe Elliott
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A Touch ‘N Release™ body work session, like everything else in The Whole Horse System, begins with Evaluation, using measurements to determine a starting point of flexibility, balance and movement. After a Touch ‘N Release™ session, the horse is reevaluated and positive changes are noted.
Some horses are unable to receive the benefits of body work without establishing Groundwork first. Groundwork uses recognized basic training methods that create respect and reinforce boundaries, thereby connecting the horse’s mind with his body.
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