Acupressure is a centuries old form of healing based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and relates to energy flow throughout an organism.

Acupressure enables us to take action systemically on specific points that are measurable with instrumentation by demonstrating a change in electrical resistance. The intent is to ensure a continuous uninterrupted flow of energy throughout the body. This energy flow called Chi, or life force, passes through the body in an electrical fashion, thereby providing and maintaining the energetic balance necessary for normal bodily function. Traditional Chinese Medicine maintains that an interruption of Chi is the ultimate root of disease. Acupressure seeks to correct this imbalance before it manifests as any symptom.

Acupressure is performed without needles. The Equine Body Worker will use their thumbs, hands and elbows to work along a meridian (the energy pipe way) or on a combination of points from various meridians to achieve a specific goal. There are twelve traditional meridians throughout the body. Shiatsu is Acupressure that is combined with stretching joints and other techniques.

Acupressure naturally reduces pain by stimulating the release of endorphins (the body's own built-in pain relievers). It also increases the nutrient supply to muscles by promoting cellular exchange, while preventing the buildup of harmful fatigue products, metabolic wastes and lactic acid resulting from strenuous exercise. Further, Acupressure improves overall muscle tone and relieves painful muscle spasms again often associated with long and strenuous training workouts. Shiatsu Acupressure is useful in soft tissue injuries, including muscle strain, sprains, spasms and aches located in the back shoulders, neck and hind quarters. It speeds up recovery after an injury by increasing blood flow to the affected areas, while lessening inflammation and swelling to the joints. In addition to improving muscle tone, it increases the range of motion and generally improves a horse's disposition as it relieves discomfort.

Dawn Clow utilizes Shiatsu Acupressure within her Equine Body Work Sessions.

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