Hello All,
Arizona
Having been land-locked and snow-bound for most of the winter here in Iowa, January gave me a very good excuse to drive down to Phoenix, AZ for two BIG events.
No, not the Superbowl, and not the PGA Phoenix Open Golf Tour - but rather the Mark and Jim Collaborative Clinic and a top-secret Masterson Method Certified Practitioner Gathering.
Of course, I checked ahead with both the NFL and the PGA to make sure our events didn’t conflict with theirs, and to address the possibility that we might draw too many people from their events. They said it should be fine and not to worry so we went ahead.
Both of our events took place at beautiful Carefree Farms in Cave Creek, AZ.
At the Mark and Jim Show we evaluated six horse-rider combinations, did bodywork on the six horses, and then Mark worked with the six horse-rider combinations in the arena. The NFL and PGA had to do without the 150 auditors who attended. (This was not enough to replicate the “wave” they do at pro sports events, but enough to generate a ripple effect, which has a lot more potential ; )
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The Masterson Method Certified Practitioner Gathering drew around 100 MMCPs from the US, Canada, the UK, and EU. In addition to educational presentations, this event gave MMCPs, Instructors, Coaches and Mentors the opportunity to re-connect, share experiences and, well… “cut up” a bit (see more below).
In addition to presentations by Mark and two of our specialized MMCPs, Jillian Kreinbring also joined us at our Gathering. Her presentation on functional anatomy is in perfect balance with MM, and her connected way of working with horses is an inspiration.
In fact, Jillian is inspiration and balance. If you want to experience a shift in the way you see and apply biomechanics, I’d recommend learning from her whenever you can. And if by coincidence you happen to be in California this Spring, you could have that chance as Jillian’s doing a clinic at Anita Parra’s Big Horse Ranch in Arroyo Grande from March 31-April 3, 2023. You can read more about Jillian and the other presenters at the Gathering, below.
The Long Drive Down
If you’re worried about the long drive I HAD to make to Arizona… don’t be. The last few drives I’ve HAD to make across the southern plains and the southwest desert have been AMAZING. Spending a couple of days crossing the open spaces does wonders for the cluttered head (even with “Siri” urging me to “proceed to the route”).
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And if you pull off the highway you can see “where the deer and the antelope roam”. You may also see where they steal a sip of water from cattle tanks now and then. |
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After the events I was able to spend a couple more days hanging out in the hills north of Phoenix before driving ALL the way home. |
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Light to the Core
In case you haven’t heard, we’re now doing Light to the Core Weekend Seminars in Canada and the US, with the first now scheduled in the UK. In case you’re not sure what these are about, check out a short video to see if this is something that might resonate with you.
If so, we have seven LTC Seminars scheduled in Canada and seven in the US in 2023. If you have some spare horses and an appropriate barn here in the US, then you may be able to save some money by hosting a seminar. This is good because if you have horses you’re probably looking to save money every chance you get.
As I said, we've scheduled our first Light to the Core Seminar in the UK in June. It's just been added to our Calendar of Courses.
Back on the Expo Trail
I’m back sharing blinks and yawns at Horse Expos this year. Most of the yawns come from the horses at these presentations, only occasionally from the humans.
The 2023 Horse Expo Rundown:
PRCA rodeo clown and “Coors Man in the Can” John Harrison will also be at the Midwest Fair.
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Don’t let the outfit or the Coors can fool you, that’s not me. (Just trying to avoid confusion ahead of time : )
There are a lot of good clinicians and a lot to see and learn at these fairs and expos. Stop by and see what it’s all about.
Back to Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK
Have been country-locked for the last two years but am starting to get out again, beginning with attending the world’s largest horse expo – Equitana – in Germany in March.
If you’re planning on going to this Equitana and have never been, start eating your Wheaties now. It’s got to be the biggest, busiest and most action and content-filled horse expo anywhere. If you think we’re horse-crazy here in America, try Germany and the Netherlands.
The Expo only goes on for seven days, March 9 -15, so don’t blink. As it looks now, I’ll be doing presentations with horses on the following days:
Monday 13 March at 1400-1430 and 1530-1600
Tuesday 14 March at 1500-1530
Wednesday 15 March at 1400-1430
In between these I’ll be doing some meet and greets, interviews and panel discussions sponsored by WeHorse, Kosmos and Standpunkt Pferd. Details of where these can be found are on our website.
On Thursday look for me on a respirator at the Red Cross station. Our Germany Coordinator and Advanced Instructor, Walter Saxe has organized all of this, and I expect him to carry on if I don’t make it. Danke Walter!
I’ll be spending a couple days meeting up with our MMCPs in Germany and in the Netherlands, and doing three Masterson Method® demonstrations in the Netherlands. The Netherland demonstrations are all full at the moment, however two Netherland Beyond Horse Massage Weekend Seminars are scheduled in March. One is being taught by Instructor Lucie Klaassen in Vorden (18-19 March) and the other by Instructor Masja Fick in Uddel (25-26 March). Learning hands-on, for two days, with good Instructors and horses will certainly be as good as – if not better – than watching me for an hour. Find details on the Calendar below.
Then on to the UK to meet with Masterson Method Certified Practitioners there, and to do an evening presentation at trainer Emily Baker’s Dovecote Stables in Churchill, Oxfordshire. Take a good look at what Emily does and offers here. It’s an excellent operation and a special place.
This demonstration can be attended by the interested public on March 20, from
Back at Home
Not in sunny Arizona anymore!
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I think that’s about it for now. Gotta’ go throw another log on the fire. I won’t be able to give you an update on next month’s goings-on because I’ll be in the middle of them, however our talented newsletter editor Natalie will fill you in on what’s going on and I’ll catch you up on the European trip in April (if able).
Until then, like me
Enjoy your horses!
Jim
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Photos from the 2023 MMCP Gathering |
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Nearly 100 MMCPs, Clinicians and Masterson Equine Services Staff gathered in Phoenix, Arizona from February 3-5. It was great to connect in person with people we "chat" with mostly by email, get some needed hugs and work with horses. Here are some photos from the weekend...
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Gretchen Deane, MMCP and Licensed Practitioner in Neuromuscular Horse Dentistry, informed the group of the impact of good – or not – dental care. After the lecture, MMCPs had a chance to examine horses in the arena and learn more. |
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Gretchen keeping the audience engaged!
Jillian Krienbring's presentation on understanding the horse's movement was compelling and informative. But when she demonstrated in the arena, knowing exactly when the horse's feet were landing (without looking), and performing dressage movements in hand with little to no contact, it was amazing! The lightness of horse and human is something to strive for!
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MMCPs had a chance to look at teeth... |
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...and practice softness. |
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Vanessa Helvey taught the group about the Geld Scar and the impact on movement and behavior. Fascinating! |
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And then - there was the Mark and Jim Show! |
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Mark gets the whole group involved in feeling softness and being grounded... |
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...and Jim demonstrates the Masterson Magic!
Finally, here a few of the "tamer" photos from the Meet-n-Greet pre-event dinner!
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Upcoming Sale February 27-March 5 |
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Here's something you don't want to miss... |
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With three options, it will be hard to choose - then again, choose all three!
Hands Online Library
With the use of slow-motion, Jim highlights the nuance of this subtle bodywork. There is a bonus session on case study horses with mysterious performance or behavioral issues.
Our worldwide community of Masterson Method Certified Practitioners bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise around topics that are critical to the horse’s welfare and relevant to the Masterson Method® bodywork.
In this Library, Jim “breaks down” the steps to perform each technique, including a demonstration video and a follow-up Q&A. This series is for Weekend Seminar or Beyond Horse Massage Home Study Course students at minimum.
Sale starts February 27th - give yourself a hand!
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MMCP Jennifer Verre gives a Demo |
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Not only did Jennifer attend the MMCP Gathering February 3-5, she followed up the next weekend with a Demo! Check out Practitioner Page Jennifer Verre for more information - here are a few photos from that event. |
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Testimonial and Jim's Response |
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The Masterson Method® is a huge part of my multi-discipline approach to my Icelandic diagnosed with LYME disease, but goes beyond being able to use antibiotic treatment. LYME affects the muscles as well as other structures. Muscles become hard and sore pulling skeletal structures out and presenting an overall immobility. The Chiropractor was most impressed after a second adjustment to thoracic and lumbar affected spine. Basic and Light to the Core treatment at home every 3 or 4 days, and later even a week, has been a god-send. No pun intended that Jim is God ;-) although if my horse could speak he would probably say so.
PS I couldn't make this work as a testimonial any other way. Susan from Ottawa
"Hello Susan - Giving your horse’s nervous system the opportunity to “let go” of the muscle tension that builds as a result of the inflammation accompanying LYME will help your horse deal with, if not only the discomfort, the possible longer-term effects of the disease. Good on you!
PS Also, good on your horse’s acute judgement of character. Our staff has been informed of my new job title." Jim
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Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES) Program News |
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Presentation at PATH Int’l Region 7 Conference
On Friday, February 17, Lise and Lori demonstrated how we use The Masterson Method® in equine-assisted service (EAS) programs as a means to partner with horses. Their presentation and demonstration was part of the PATH Region 7 Conference at New Kingdom Trail Riders in Sherrard, Illinois. Equine bodywork is gaining recognition in EAS programs to improve the welfare of horses that work in these settings. With The Masterson Method Equine Specialist Program, there is also a potential benefit to help volunteers, staff and program participants better understand and connect with their horses when sharing some basic Masterson Method bodywork techniques as a learning activity.
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Metaphorse Growth & Healing Center Hosting a 2nd MMES Seminar in 2023
Megan Dushin, MMES Instructor, traveled to Montrose, Colorado last year to share about The Masterson Method® in a MMES Seminar and is excited to return there this May! Metaphorse Growth & Healing Center has a sensitive and attuned herd of 30+ horses who work on the ground, at liberty, and/or under saddle in the beautiful canyons on the "western slope” of Colorado, as they call it. Learn more about Metaphorse at https://www.metaphorse.com/ and register for this and other MMES Seminars at https://mastersonmethod.com/equinespecialist.
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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!
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Upcoming Podcast with Jim on March 1st |
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Jim is a guest on another podcast - this time with
Morgan Stephens on the Feelin' Fine Podcast.
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Morgan runs her business, Feeling Fine Therapy, from Utah and provides natural healing for all animals. Jim said the podcast chat left him "feelin' fine"!
The podcast will air March 1st on these podcast stations:
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Jillian Kreinbring at Arroyo Grande |
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Contact Anita Parra if you are interested in attending this clinic. |
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Final Article in Horse Deals Magazine |
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Jim had one more article in Horse Deals in September - which we found out about in January - and then someone forgot to add it to that Newsletter! But, better late than never - here are a couple of photos of the article. Pick it up at a local Australian Newstand near you! |
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Newly Certified Practitioners |
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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 Find a Practitioner page on our website for 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.
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Diana Quinn, MMCP
Auckland, New Zealand
I have loved horses for as long as I can remember. I grew up spending all the time I could with my horses, riding, going to pony club, doing farm and stock work, and competing.
A career in the Aviation Industry followed, while I continued to ride and compete in Dressage and Show Jumping. Various issues with different horses over the years showed me the importance of bodywork, working with professionals in different modalities. However, I wanted to learn to do effective bodywork with my own horses, and eventually found some of The Masterson Method® videos on You Tube. I tried the Bladder Meridian, and was stunned by the horse’s responses, and how good he felt in his body when I next rode him. I watched one of Jim’s demos at Equitana Auckland at 2019, and found the gentle and interactive techniques and the response of the horse really resonated with me. I knew I needed to learn more.
I finished my Certification journey in October 2022. I love working with and helping horses and their owners, and seeing the improvements in the horse’s body and performance.
I am based in South Auckland and regularly visit the North Waikato area. I can visit other areas by arrangement.
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MaryLyn Jewett, MMCP
Santa Clair Shores, Michigan
I have always been a horse girl, and formally got my first horse job as a groom in 2017. I worked up to a position of assistant trainer in a school program, was the school program administrator, and training in dressage at the same time. I first heard about the Masterson Method® in 2018, when a rider I was grooming for noticed my feel and sensitivity to horses, but I didn’t look into it until 2020 when teaching lessons came to a stand still, and I had extra time to play with school ponies.
I began practicing for a few minutes here and there as I was helping care for them. I then formally began pursuing education in Masterson Method® with a weekend seminar in September 2021 and received my certification in December 2022.
Going forward, I plan to add many other certifications and continued education to my quiver, including KT Taping, Advanced Anatomy courses and Biomechanics.
I am located in Metro Detroit, and gladly travel anywhere within 2 hours of my location.
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Suzanne Liscouski, MMCP
Leesburg, Virginia
Suzanne Liscouski, owner and trainer of Briar Creek Farm in Virginia, grew up in the horse world the traditional way; pony club as a child and competing in local, state and regional hunter jumper events. A horse owner since the age of 10, Suzanne’s life forever changed when she started her first colt with Ray Hunt in 1999. She was later honored to be Ray’s European trip planner and translator. From those experiences in seeing the art of the possible, her methods and riding philosophy changed to focus on giving the horse a “better deal,” as Ray taught. Suzanne continued to do clinics with Ray and likeminded horsemen focused on softness, lightness and connection.
Continuing her goal of seeking to best help horses in her care, she was thrilled to find the Masterson Method® helped her heart horse with a mystery hind end lameness and saw such a positive performance impact on others!
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Tiffany Yetter, MMCP
Helena, Montana
Tiffany was born and raised in Clancy, MT. She was infected with horse fever at an early age and knew that someday she would have horses and property of her own. She grew up riding on friends’ ranches and never passed up the chance to ride with her mom and aunt who both grew up rodeoing.
In 2013 while living on a ranch in Bozeman, Tiffany added a little grey mare to her herd and it quicky became apparent that she had a lot going on with her body. Through her veterinarian and other horse owners in the area, Tiffany was introduced to the Masterson Method®. After hiring a practitioner to work with Izzy and watching a few body work sessions, Tiffany knew that she wanted to someday be able to help horses in the same way.
In 2021 Tiffany made the decision to follow her heart. Leaving behind her corporate career, she started her journey to become a Masterson Method® practitioner and has never looked back.
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Interested in taking a course? Here are a few testimonials that might convince you!
It’s a great program to better understand your personal horse
or a great opportunity to start in the field of equine bodywork.
(Weekend Seminar)
Amazing experience. I could feel my confidence and skills improve
so much as the week progressed.
(Advanced 5-Day Course)
LTC is a fundamental way to connect with horses,
relieve tension and understand what MM is truly all about.
(Light to the Core)
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Weekend Seminar-Workshop Schedule |
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* If the course you had your heart set on is sold out, please email jo@mastersonmethod.com to be added to the waiting list.
Worried about COVID19? Read our COVID precautions and info here:
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USA 2023 Courses
Canada 2023 Courses
(in French)
(in French)
September 30-October 1
(in French)
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Asia 2023 Courses
(in Japanese)
(in Japanese)
Australia & New Zealand 2023 Courses
European 2023 Courses
(in Dutch)
(in Czech)
(in Dutch)
(in German)
(in German)
(in French)
(in German)
(in German)
(in German)
(in French)
(in English)
(in Polish)
(in German)
(in Dutch)
(in English w/German translation)
(in German)
(in German)
(in Dutch)
(in Dutch)
Middle East 2023 Courses
(check back for upcoming courses)
South Africa 2023 Courses
(check back for upcoming courses)
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Advanced 5-Day Course Schedule |
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USA 2023 Advanced Courses
European 2023 Advanced Courses
(in English and German as needed)
Canada 2023 Advanced Courses
Australia & New Zealand 2023 Courses
South Africa 2023 Courses
(Check back for upcoming Advanced 5-day Courses)
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Certification Completion Course Schedule |
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USA 2023 Courses
with Becky Tenges
with Sandy Vreeburg
with Coralie Hughes
with Becky Tenges
with Becky Tenges
Canada 2023 Courses
with Lori Hoppe
with Lori Hoppe
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European 2023 Courses
with Walter Saxe
(in German and English)
with Vicky Devlin
with Vicky Devlin
with Walter Saxe
(in German and English)
Australia & New Zealand 2023 Courses
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Masterson Method Light to the Core Schedule |
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USA 2023 Courses
European 2023 Courses
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Canada 2023 Courses
(in French)
(in French)
September 16-17
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Masterson Method Equine Specialist Schedule |
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Masterson Method Collaborative Clinics |
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USA 2023 Collaborative Clinics
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Masterson Method Expos and Demos |
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USA and European 2023 Expos & Demos
Expos with Jim Masterson
Iowa Horse Fair
Midwest Horse Fair
MMCP Demonstrations
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"Absorbine’s relationship with The Masterson Method® is a natural fit. Jim’s breakthrough but simple concepts are all focused on helping the horse to relieve tension, feel more comfortable and improve their relationships with owners and handlers.”
~ Amy Cairy, Director of Marketing,
W. F. Young, manufacturers of Absorbine products
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THE MASTERSON METHOD®
641-472-1312
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