Horse Examination

The purpose of an examination is to assess the horse condition. For that the examination will determine the horse basic constitution and current issues or imbalances that eventually lead to a specific disorder.

An Ayurvedic examination is based on the following three approaches: observation, touch and questioning. 

There can be variations with more or less depth in each of the procedure but most of the time it will go over this three stages.

Observation

Observation consists at looking at the horse as a whole and also examining specific part of the body. It covers the posture, the physical attitude, the movement but also the coat, the eyes, the tongue. 

Observation of sounds (like the one from the gut) and smells are included as well.

Touch

Touch is another important part of the examination. It provides additional information about the horse that enrich the observations already made.

Touch includes taking the pulse and palpation of particular point of the body. It will show if there is any tender point, lumps, if the tissues are more hard or soft, if the temperature is cold or hot.

The procedure informs at both a physical level and at an energetic level.

Questioning

Questioning includes the medical history of the horse as well as direct questions asked to the owner. It allows the practitioner to gather information about the horse behavior, habits and lifestyle. Questions about food preference, time of rest, response to seasons will be covered.

This three fold examination give the practitioner insights about the horse condition. From there the course of an holistic treatment can be decided.

The place of horse nature in Ayurveda.

As I am working on the ayurvedic approach of horse examination with determination of the nature type or imbalances, I thought it was important to also talk about the place of the "true nature" of the horse.

Ayurveda's philosophy is to live in harmony with the nature and with our own nature. In the context of the horses it means that taking into consideration and respecting the nature of horses by keeping in mind the wild horse model is essential. It's a question of wellness and health.

In Ayurveda the constitution (or nature type) of a subject will tell us what is the most appropriate treatment or care to provide. It will also help us to find a lifestyle that suit the subject. But the advice that we can get from knowing a constitution won't replace the importance of the natural lifestyle of horses. Ideally they will go together.

For that, Ayurveda has a very respectful and wholesome approach.

Ayurvedic Massage - Part II

Part II: How it applies to horses

First the constitution or nature type of the horse has to be determined, also any imbalances and specific conditions have to be defined. The history of the horse (age, illness, behavior), observations, physical exam with palpation will give the information needed for that. From there the therapist will be able to give a treatment that is tailored for this particular horse at this particular moment.

Let's now take an example to better illustrated the approach.

Let's say that we have a horse that has a nature with the elements Ether and Air dominant (a Vata constitution in Ayurveda). Because if this constitution the horse need a light and nurturing massage as Vata are the most sensitive type.

The appropriate massage will consist of slow gentle stroke. The pressure will be light. Abrupt or rough movement could be irritable and disturbing. Large and circular movement can be used to harmonize. More vigorous stroke could be use if for example blocks are found but deep pressure is not advised. More focus will be brought on the pelvic area as it is a place where toxins can accumulate. If a basic oil is used it will be Sesame oil. The combination with essential oils like lavender, chamomile, basil, sandalwood will be a good choice.

As I mention aromatherapy through the use of essential oils other therapy like Marma Therapy (similar to Acupressure) or energy work (Reiki) can also be a part of the treatment.

This Ayurvedic treatment will have for effect to loosen up any muscular tension but also to treat any conditions related to an imbalance due to the unique constitution of the horse (Vata) like anxiety, nervousness, lower back problems, arthritis, etc.

Ayurvedic Massage - Part I

Part I: An overview

Ayurvedic Massage is a therapeutic form of massage. It is based on an understanding of the primordial energies of the five elements and the constitutionals types. This understanding will allow to customized the treatments to the unique nature of the recipient. Pressure, speed, movement, oil or aroma, techniques will be chosen according to the uniqueness of the recipient and the condition of treatment.

Ayurvedic massage addresses  the subtle energy of the body, Prana. Through the rhythmical and deeply relaxing movements of the massage stagnant energy or blocks are removed and the circulation of the vital energy in the body is increased as the flow of life force (Prana) is open. On a physical level this also have an impact on the blood circulation and the lymphatic system by stimulating and strengthening it.