Before you begin, take a few deep breaths and focus on what you are doing. Some people like to rub their palms together (Pericardium 8 is a powerful acupoint in the center of your palms) to bring up their own energy and intention and focus on their Qi.  Stand near the horse and allow him to approach you or show interest/give permission in having you proceed. Where you conduct the session is up to you. It may be in the horse’s stall or paddock area or perhaps in a barn aisle. Make sure you and the horse are safe throughout your time together.

Place your hands gently on the horse to let him get used to your touch, and/or do some light stroking/petting along the neck, back or chest. Locate the acupressure point(s) by stroking through the area gently with flat fingers or hand and then letting your finger(s) or thumb or palm (depending on sensitivity of the horse to pressure/touch) stop in the area of the point. Remain still on the point for a minute or so to let the horse get used to your touch in the area and to feel for the quality of the Qi at that point.

Just staying on the point is fine. If you aren’t feeling the Qi flow in the area you may want to move the skin and tissue gently in the area to feel for it.  You can also circle on the point if that feels like the right thing to do. Some horses may want a bit more pressure and you can sink into the point as the tissue allows you to do so. This is not about pressing hard, start out very lightly. If you press too hard you may lose the horse’s trust.

The horse may yawn, change their breathing, move into you or basically relax as a form of a release. Or they may move away from you indicating they have had enough. You may stay in the area for 30 seconds or up to a few minutes, depending on the horse. So pay attention to the feedback they are providing you and the feeling of the Qi at the point. Once done with an acupoint, gently stroke through the area before moving on to the next point.

Please note, not all horses will enjoy all the points and not all points will lead to a release. It is not about how many points you do or how much pressure you use, less is more.