Hello All,

Jim has had a busy month - first traipsing around California for the Mark-Steve-Jim Brain Clinic and then the Mark-Dianne-Jim Collaborative Clinic, then wandering to the East Coast for the Equine Affaire Expo in Massachusetts!

And so, he passed the buck - I mean, the reins - of putting together and sending out the November Newsletter to me! I'm sure he'll have a few choice words for me later, and more adventures to share with you in December.

Thanksgiving story from Lee McLean of Keystone Equine

Word came down that Jim Masterson, himself, had invited me to partake in a ‘Beyond Horse Massage two-day course that was happening in my neighbourhood. This kind gesture was in thanks for a story I’d written and shared on social media, with a wonderfully positive response, two months before. 

I’d been moved to write something, to share after witnessing the effect that a gentle, loving and thorough Masterson Method® session had upon Flint, a pony who’d earlier suffered the misfortune of falling from a cliff that runs where his pasture joins the creek. During Flint’s session, I watched Janet—a personal friend and certified practitioner—guide my pony through a series of questions, tentative responses, calm waiting and then, release of the many layers that surrounded his trauma. 

For several hours afterward, Flint slept full out on his side, rising only to go to the water trough. He was on his way. 

With an open heart and mind, I gratefully signed up for the next two-day course. But as the date drew near, I began to grow anxious. What was I doing?! I’m a sixty-year-old ranch wife, life-long practical horsewoman and trainer of other peoples’ horses. I realized that while I claim to be a student of life, I am quite afraid of learning something entirely new. 

What if this course somehow showed me that everything I did and believed up to this point, would prove to be wrong? Reckon there was only one way to find out. 

The course, led by Lori Hoppe and her team of assistants, was an eye opener. It was also respectful of every single attendee’s background, experiences and beliefs. We had so many chances to watch, to ask questions and to feel with our own hands. We trained on a variety of safe, mannerly horses who had a variety of jobs to do. 

Down and Forward - Step One

(not stepping down!)

Down and Forward - Step Two

(please don't step on the Instructor!)

We were able to learn without feeling defensive about what we thought we already knew for sure, something I really appreciated as an equine professional. 

I’ve decided that we can all hold dear what we do with our horses, day to day, with some tweaking. In my case, so much of what happens in training is in riding a horse to softness, relying upon various movements and release to reduce resistance. It didn’t take very long before I could see that so much of what I was doing in my program, could more easily and kindly be done from the ground, before saddling up. That I could do more, with less. 

Why do we resist this notion, that a simple but profound paradigm shift can enhance everything we already do with our horses? 

I’m not a demanding, jerk and spur trainer. I love and care for both my own horses and those whom I’ve been paid to love and to teach! But how many times have I trained through a stiffness or ‘resistance’? How many times have I fought the good fight with a one-sided, or ‘bracy’ horse? How many years have I believed that some horses are just swishy, or reactive, or lazy, or chargy, or cranky, or otherwise complicated? How many times have I unwittingly ridden sore horses? How many times in the past have I flat-out run out of tools? My drive home was a quiet and contemplative one. 

More time and mileage isn’t always the answer. 

Change is the one known constant in life. It seems that the longer we have been the resident expert, the go-to problem-solver, the pro in our own neck of the woods, the harder it is to accept. I know that I am fearful of change, of letting go what has served me in the past. I also know that this is the reason I was wary of attending the MM course… and also, why I knew that I needed to go. 

What I found out for sure is that we can still be effective, when we take a stand to open our minds and hearts. To learn more and do no harm. So much of today’s riding, whether training or competing, does so at the expense of the horse! So much of what we deem ‘achieving horsemanship’ has a little rotten spot at the core, a black spot right at the centre. I think I’ve been a part of this by accepting that I cannot make a very big difference, by failing to see that the needed change in the horse industry begins with each and every one of us. That change begins with me. 

Going forward, I will be tweaking my own program by asking the horse more questions. But more gently, now, just one at a time. I will be waiting for answers and not turning a blind eye to the responses I least want to see. I am newly-attuned to the premise that ‘less is more’ and by golly, this applies to our aids when we’re in the saddle, every bit as much as when we’re feeling our way along the Bladder Meridian! 

If I could shout anything from the rooftops it would be this. We have to stop expecting our trusted bodyworkers and healthcare professionals to make our horses sound and happy, without keeping this ideal of wellness foremost when we’re in the saddle. Too many of us, amateurs and pros alike, are training and competing at the expense of the horse! We have begun to believe the lies and little stories we tell ourselves about why our discipline is special, why it doesn’t require us to work the horse within the known parameters of wellness. Why we must do what we do, in order to win. 

Why we’re all in danger of seeing only what we want to see. 

I want to believe in a world where we all can win with happy horses whose maintenance comes from good work—in hands that care and eyes that really see—rather than from injections. I want to believe in a world where the horses age and improve in their health, rather than burn out before they have the chance to mature. 

I have seen that the Masterson Method® is a safe bridge between the disparate poles of woo-woo and hard-line horsemanship. It is a welcoming and comforting place for any one of us, an enriching environment where we can all meet in the middle. Yes, I will be gently suggesting this introductory course and all the available online videos, to the horse and dog people in my life. 

Rather than take away from my brand of horsemanship, I left ‘Beyond Horse Massage’ feeling hopeful for the first time, in a long time. I want to thank Jim Masterson, his Method and the caring community that he has built for showing me that we can all be improved by learning to really see, to really ask, to really wait… and in so doing, to really listen to the horse. 

Lee McLean 

Keystone Equine 

Instructor and MMCP Lori Hoppe and Lee McLean, Keystone Equine

Upcoming Opportunity

Jim wants to tell you all about an opportunity for a special workshop being offered by Kerri Lake at Big Horse Ranch in Arroyo Grande, California (the site of Mark & Jim madness - I mean, the Mark & Jim show). Jim met Kerri at Warwick Schiller's Journey On Podcast Summit last fall. (photo: Shadow, Lucy & Kerri)

Courage to Feel is scheduled for January 4-7, 2024, and this may be just what you need to start the year right. With Christmas just before, maybe you can request this as a gift! Special thanks to Kerri for providing information for this newsletter.

Registration is open now - find more information at Generation of Harmony website and see the flyer below.

Less is More!

Last month Jim shared his favorite photo of Fairfield in November. I thought this month, you might enjoy the beauty of November in Kirkland, Washington (Seattle area).

Living 5 blocks from a small cove at the northern part of Lake Washington has its advantages.

These views bring some much-needed peace of mind.

Well, I better stop now before someone in the office puts me on a Lunge Line.

Until next month, Happy Thanksgiving.

And like me, Jim and the Masterson Method Herd,

thank your horses.

Natalie

In loving memory of Popper - Facebook reel

We're growing! And because we are "bursting at the seams", we are on the hunt for a seasoned professional to manage our company-wide marketing program.

Ideally a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner (MMCP) or Fieldwork student, this person will create marketing campaigns for equine and canine courses, special events and products, as well as our brand.

Interested? If so, please read the full job description at this link, Marketing & Communications Expert, and send in your application today.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, November 24th.

Beckie Haynes has recognized Liberty Reins, LLC, as a Masterson Method® Recognized Host. Here is their story:

Liberty Reins, LLC, exists to help horse and human hearts unite to bring about positive changes that promote growth, healing, and restoration. Our herd is here to provide these things for those in need and they do it with excellence. A huge part of my own growth journey has been learning how to give back to the animals that serve us so faithfully. To that end, encountering the Masterson Method® and seeing what it can do for the horses in a very tangible way has been a blessing to both humans and horses at Liberty Reins. Since I first took the Weekend Seminar, I have shared that experience with clients of all ages in my programs. I have shared this with my riding lesson clients (kids and adults), in our Eagala Sessions (EFP/EAP), and even with horse friends that have never heard of MM. Alli Watson

Website: www.libertyreins.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/libertyreinsllc

Instagram: libertyreinsllc

What a great looking group!

Instructor Sandy Vreeburg, Alli Watson, Jenna (FW student),

Instructor Beckie Haynes

Kept in line by Hunter and Buster!

Thank you Liberty Reins, LLC!

One of the things I enjoy as the editor of Jim’s Monthly Newsletter is meeting via email so many delightful horse-crazy people - Riders, Horse-Lovers, Fieldwork Students, and MMCPs. As a singer, I noticed this student’s email address (with a musical topic) which sparked a delightful email exchange - we both sing in our own way to the horses we serve. I sing opera and find tunes that match the rhythm of Lateral Rocking for each horse. I received permission to use Martin's testimonial in this month’s newsletter.

Dear Nathalie,

It was an overwhelmingly positive Masterson weekend in Frickingen, which Silvia Hamm (Instructor) made possible for us. I am so happy and inspired. I have felt so many important things and have great courage to continue on this blessed path for the horses - most of all my own young horse. Silvia is a wonderful, gentle, encouraging and humble trainer. It was a great joy to learn from her! (I just wanted to write you this short feedback so that you know what a wonderful trainer you have here.)

PS: I'm probably a little different in one way: I need the quiet conversation with the horse. (Maybe I need it most of all myself because it means I can be a better help to the horse. But that’s also what matters). Sometimes (as the Violinmaker who I am) I just hum at certain frequencies when I touch a horse. And the horse enjoys it. I just have the impression that this gives the horses even more courage to let go of blockages, which can be painful at first. They feel my own joy. And I think that the relaxed nature of humans is a great encouragement for the horse... But if asked, I will definitely say: Jim doesn't hum! :-))

A very warm greeting,

Yours, Martin

Damiano and Martin

Masterson Method Fieldwork Students are doing great work all around the globe! While practicing the techniques, learning the feel and flow, and being challenged by their mentors and coaches to learn more and always soften, they are bringing Masterson Tender Loving Care to many, many horses!

Thank you to Anne for sharing this video of her work with Maestro.

And thank you to all the Fieldwork Students and the MM Education Team!

MMES crosses the pond...

Looking for an International MMES course? Well we've got one scheduled in February in the UK! Don't miss out on this great opportunity to help the horses that help us.

February 10-12, 2024 New Forest, UK

New MMES Map

The Masterson Method Equine Specialists now have their own special map! You can find the map on the MMES page or click on the new MMES Map to find a certified Masterson Method Equine Specialist in your area who might work with your equine-assisted services program.

See Newly Certified Equine Specialists

We've had quite a few horse enthusiasts join the ranks as certified Masterson Method Equine Specialists. Please see the new section below. If you've recently completed the MMES track, please send in your bio and photo!

About the Masterson Method Equine Specialist Program

The Masterson Method Equine Specialist specializes in sharing specific light touch Masterson Method techniques with persons served in equine-assisted learning and therapy programs. By doing this bodywork on horses, participants deepen their connection with horses while also gaining self-awareness and self-regulation skills; meanwhile, therapy horses are tended to through simple bodywork and learn a new way of relating to people. It's a win/win!

Questions?  Visit the Masterson Method Equine Specialist Page or contact the Program Coordinator at mmes@mastersonmethod.com.

What is better than a Thanksgiving Day meal with lots of great food and family?

Having the great meal and THEN sitting down to read a good book! What's better than one good book? How about two! Well, we've got two of them for you in our store!

Beyond Black Friday 

Beyond Dog Massage and Beyond Horse Massage Books 30% off

Monday, Nov. 20th thru Sunday, Nov. 26th

This sale is in North America only

Oh - I almost forgot - what's better than one sale? How about two?

Cyber Monday Sale

Gentle Bodywork Online Course 30% off

Monday, Nov. 27th thru Wednesday, Nov. 29th

Links will be available on Masterson Method® Social Media on November 27th!

Dog Book, Dog Book - Read All About It!

Have you heard the news?

We got a great review in the Library Journal - so here is the review for your reading pleasure.

And if you think this is good - wait 'til you hear what the Dogs have to say!

The Library Journal REVIEW:

Masterson (Beyond Horse Massage) created his trademark Masterson Method for horses. Although the species differ, Masterson recognized that both animals ignore or suppress physical tension and pain.

He collaborated with veterinarian Robin Robinett for this book, which introduces using Masterson techniques on canines. The authors discuss factors that can produce tension or discomfort in dogs.

They introduce (and frequently emphasize) the various practices used in this method, including “Search, Response, Stay, Release,” movement techniques, and “Hold, Wait, and Melt.”

Anyone employing these methods should move slowly, use gentle hands, and follow a dog’s responses.

The book explores various areas of a dog’s body that might benefit from this approach, including the head-neck, neck-trunk, hind end, and midsection.

1.  Readers can scan QR codes to view short videos with helpful explanations and techniques in action.

2.  Photos and diagrams help outline various aspects of a canine’s complex anatomy that would benefit from this method.

This title also addresses how the Masterson Method can improve particular mobility/performance issues faced by many dogs and includes recommended readings for further research.

VERDICT - Written in a user-friendly style, this book would assist dog owners in improving their pet’s physical and mental well-being.— Erica Swenson Danowitz

It's fun when our MMCPs share personal news of growth and accomplishment. And what could be better than celebrating a wedding?

So lift a glass of your favorite beverage to Mr. and Mrs. Pfitzer and their "children"! Also known to many of us as MMES Instructor Stephanie Wilkins, she is still getting used to her new name.

Congratulations!

I live in the heartland of America. I was born and raised in southeast Iowa. My legal name is Bartruff but I sign my art as "JC Norris” in honor of my maternal grandmother who I did not have the pleasure to know. I earned a B.A. in Religious Studies with an interest in Eastern religion and philosophy at Iowa State University in 1992 as an "older than average student". 

After graduation, I taught Iyengar Yoga for 12 years and worked at MES from 2012-2023. I am currently retired and residing in my hometown of Fairfield with my cat SugarBear and my partner, Jim. See my website for more! Jo

jcnorrisart.com

Facebook Page

For Sale:

Derecho (acrylic on paper)

Spitfire (pastel - below)

Jim is dedicated to providing and encouraging continuing education for our certified practitioners. MMCPs received an email last month announcing the next MMCP Gathering (aka the Jimboree) January 26-28, 2024 in Phoenix, AZ. With clinicians like Daniel Dauphin, Jillian Kreinbring, and MM Instructor Walter Saxe, and a new addition to the lineup, Kerri Lake, it’s sure to be another great success!

If you are an MMCP and have not yet received the email with information on this event, contact Megan at megan@mastersonmethod.com

Need help for your horse? Find a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner (MMCP) near you. Our Certified Practitioners are dedicated equine professionals who have acquired highly attuned skills in partnering with the horse to release tension and increase range of motion, thereby restoring healthy posture and performance. Add an MMCP to your horse’s wellness team by visiting the Masterson Method Website to find the closest practitioner to you.

You will find New Practitioners listed here as well as a few who are updating their information. Let us know if you need help finding an MMCP in your area.

Our Certified Equine Specialists have worked through an abbreviated certification program designed to be accessible and relevant for equine-assisted services (EAS) professionals and volunteers. The MMES can volunteer to offer simple bodywork to EAS horses and/or partner with their EAS program to co-facilitate a new equine-assisted learning activity, such as the Bladder Meridian Technique, as a means for participants to “give back to the horse” while also creating connection.

Follow this link to search for Specialists in your area: MMES Map

Interested in taking a course? Here are a few testimonials that might convince you!

The course really prepares you with the basic skills and philosophy of the Masterson Method and Bladder Meridian work. It is inspiring and you leave with the confidence to immediately incorporate what was learned into EAS sessions.

(Equine Specialist Course)

I absolutely loved this course! Sandy and her TA's Amy, Kalin, and Malia were amazing teachers and really helped build my confidence with the techniques. I am looking forward to beginning my fieldwork and continue my Masterson journey!

(Advanced 5-Day Course)

An eye opening experience in developing more awareness of new points and why softness is a key component for success.

(Light to the Core Seminar)

I’m so impressed with the change and improvement in horses that’s possible even with brand-new students. It’s work that is very accessible while having great impact and benefit for animals… that’s a beautiful thing.

(Weekend Seminar)

* If the course you had your heart set on is sold out, please email seminars@mastersonmethod.com to be added to the waiting list. 

If you'd like to host your own weekend (and earn a free spot) please email malia@mastersonmethod.com.

Worried about COVID19? Read our COVID precautions and info here:

COVID19 Precautions

USA 2023/2024 Advanced Courses

November 27-December 1 Youngsville, NC with Khrystynna Hunsinger

December 4-8 Las Vegas, NV with Sandy Vreeburg

January 8-12 Tucson, AZ with Vanessa Helvey

February 19-23 Cave Creek, AZ with Coralie Hughes

March 18-22 Watsonville, CA with Sandy Vreeburg

March 25-29 Tucson, AZ with Vanessa Helvey

April 15-19 Callaway, MD with Khrystynna Hunsinger

June 17-21 Aptos/San Jose/ Watsonville, CA with Sandy Vreeburg

European 2024 Advanced Courses

April 17-21 Schalkhaar, NL with Masja Fick (in Dutch)

August 19-23 Oberhausen, AT with Vicky Devlin (in English with German translation)



Canada 2024 Advanced Courses

May 6-10 Cobourg, ON with Lori Hoppe



August 19-23 Calgary, AB with Lori Hoppe

September 2-6 Sherbrooke, QC with Sylvie Vallières

(in French with English materials)

September 16-20 Langley, BC with Lori Hoppe

Australia & New Zealand 2023/2024 Courses

November 24-28, 2023 Rotorua, NZ with Nadine Vollmerg

South Africa 2024 Courses

(Check back for upcoming Advanced 5-day Courses)

European 2024 Advanced Courses

March 18-22 Horley, UK with Vicky Devlin

USA 2024 Courses

March 14-16 Bloomington, IN

March 22-24 Richmond, IL

April 5-7 Leesburg, VA

May 17-19 Montrose, CO

May 31-June 2 Suttons Bay, MI

May 31-June 2 Cicero, IN

European 2024 Courses

February 10-12 New Forest, UK

USA 2024 Collaborative Clinics

January 22-24 Cave Creek, AZ Considering the Horse: Mind and Body with Mark Rashid and Jim Masterson

July 9-11 Sedalia, CO Consider the Horse: Mind and Body with Mark Rashid and Jim Masterson

July 12-14 Sedalia, CO Your Horse's Brain: A User's Manual with Dr. Stephen Peters, Mark Rashid and Jim Masterson

USA and European 2024 Expos & Demos

MMCP Demonstrations



April 6-7 Elizabeth, Colorado MM Demo with Laura Grant