Equine Bodywork
Over the years I have trained in and studied many different methods of equine bodywork and therapy. Currently the work I practice and teach is the Debono Moves Method™️. As a Debono Moves practitioner, and someone who also uses the Feldenkrais Method®️ with riders, this work is a natural extension of how I think about movement, learning, and the horse-human partnership.
Debono Moves was developed by Mary Debono based on her training in the Feldenkrais Method®️. Through this method, you can improve your flexibility and coordination, and rediscover your innate capacity for graceful, efficient movement. Mary combined her Feldenkrais studies with her knowledge of animal bio-mechanics, behavior and training, to develop a hands-on approach that helps animals. Just like in humans, this method helps the animal move more freely, and can minimize the effects of aging and injury. It can also improve athletic performance and enhance communication between human and animal.
The Debono Moves Method™️ is unique in that it provides all the benefits of traditional bodywork while also reeducating the nervous system after injuries. It also improves overall coordination and ease of movement to reduce the chance of injury in the first place. Another unique aspect of this work is that it can be utilized while a horse is being tacked up and even with a rider in the saddle. I have studied with Mary since 2010 and am endorsed by her to represent her work. To learn more please visit her website. marydebono.com
https://www.marydebono.com/blog/equine-massage-or-Feldenkrais-Equine Massage or Feldenkrais Method®️: What’s the Difference?
I offer half day workshops introducing people to this method. You’ll leave with practical hands-on tools to help your horse, but this work asks something of you as well. How you organize yourself, the quality of your touch, and your body awareness all have a profound impact on what your horse feels and how they respond to the work. This workshop helps you deepen and refine those qualities in yourself. We will also discuss ways this work can be incorporated into groundwork and the tacking up process.
Workshops range from 4-8 people and run aproximately 4 hours. If you’re interested in hosting a workshop, please contact me to discuss pricing and other details.
* Please note that I no longer travel to private barns for individual equine sessions. However, when I’m already on site teaching any type of workshop, I can add on private sessions for your horse. Reach out to discuss what might be possible.
“Leah Astrup is a gifted practitioner and teacher of Debono Moves. She possesses a unique blend of intelligence, and kindness, and skill. Over the many years that i have known her, I have witnessed her dedication to enhancing her knowledge and expertise, in a variety of approaches. All of which benefit her clients and students. What impresses me the most about Leah is her unwavering commitment to our clients. She’s constantly seeking new ways to improve her practice, and her thirst for knowledge and growth is inspiring. I’m privileged to call Leah a talented colleague and friend.” - Mary Debono
“I have had Leah perform bodywork on my mare, and I am always impressed with her ability to interpret what the horse needs. She is gentle and considerate. This is essential for getting my senstaive mare to relax and get the full benefit from the session. Leah gives me homework to do between sessions. She is an amazing person who cares deeply about horses and the people who care for them.” - Susan Lafferty, Owner Elemental Horsemanship
