By Rick Snider
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
Published April 28, 2004
ROUND HILL, Va. -- It's all in the hands. The stroking from the head on
down. The gentle caressing of the neck. The massaging of aching muscles.
Nothing beats the feeling of a full body massage, even when that body is
2,000 pounds...
...Sometimes, horses need mental therapy. Susan Mishal teaches horses
to relax through yoga, and it usually doesn't take long for skeptical
owners to see improvement.
"I've had some people's jaws drop when
people see how well their horse moves," Mishal said.
"Obviously, we don't teach them to sit in lotus position, but it's
the same theory for horses. I came up with this program that parallels
yoga for humans."
The Austin, Texas, horsewoman works with many
breeds in two-day clinics that can cost $2,000. Many horses are
rehabilitating from injuries. Gaining their confidence during the
exercise routines is critical.
"Thoroughbreds want as much as anything to
feel comfortable and safe," Mishal said. "They're so easily
frightened because they're so sensitive. They have to be worked with a
lot of feel. ...
And a lot of patience.