Pain Management

Pain Management Through Energy Work

By Lisa Wieben

When we sustain an injury blood rushes to the area to bring healing energy. This is the acute phase of an injury. Pain is our body’s signal to rest and relax in order to allow the healing to take place. There are ways that we can help the body as it heals and relieve some of the pain, especially in the case of ongoing pain. Pain is often the stagnation or blockage of the natural flow of energy.

These methods will work for both you and your horse and energy work does not interfere with the body’s natural ability to heal and often helps the body by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain suppression.

While there are many ways to work with pain, such as working with the meridians (energy pathways in the body) that go through the area of pain, in this article I will give you quick and easy techniques that you can use anywhere, without charts or tools. The only tools you need are your hands.

If you have a localized area of pain you can use a technique call Chakra Clearing. Often energy ‘vortexes’ (swirling energy) develop over areas of pain which slow down the healing process. Doing slow counterclockwise circles (5-7 seconds per circle) over the area for 2-5 minutes will help to clear and draw out stagnated energy. As you are circling visualize the energy releasing. To stabilize the area, circle your hand in a slow clockwise motion for 30-60 seconds. We often use the left hand (counter-clockwise) to clear and the right (clockwise) to stabilize, but if your arm gets tired it is perfectly fine to switch hands. When working on your horse you may want to stand on a step so that you don’t have to lift your arm up too high to circle, depending on the area you are working with.

Another way to help a localized area of pain is to stretch and pinch the area. In this technique begin by using your fingers to gently stretch from the centre of the painful area to 3-5 cm to the outside of the area. Stretch out to all sides then gently pinch the centre of the area. The stretch helps to move congested energy in the painful area and the pinch activates the Spindle Cell mechanism and sends a signal to the brain that the pain is no longer necessary. (Do not use this method if there is an open wound.) You can use several tiny pinches after the stretch.

One of my favourite ways to release pain, especially over muscular areas, is to tap the area with a hairbrush, preferably a wide, flat brush with plastic coated bristles. Gently tapping the area loosens congested energy so it can move freely. If you do not have a brush handy, tapping with your fingertips is also effective. (Again, do not use this method if there is an open wound.) This can be a wonderful addition to your grooming routine before and/or after a ride or tap those tight shoulder/ neck areas on your body after spending time at your computer or laptop.

Finishing a session by tracing large or small figure 8’s over the area will clear the energy in your energy field and environment. They also naturally create crossovers, which are healing to the body. If I have an injury or feel pain in an area I will often trace figure 8’s over the area while I am watching TV or have a short break Gently tapping in my day. When tracing you can have direct the muscles to contact with the body or do slightly off the release tension body. If you are working with your horse using these techniques let your horse tell you which method it likes best. When they start to feel the energy shift they will often lick, chew, yawn, lower their head, or blink more often. You will know that what you are doing is working. Note: if the reason for the pain is not obvious Gently trace figure 8's in all directions over and energy techniques do not alleviate the pain or reveal its source, be sure to have it an area of pain checked by a healthcare professional. Lisa Wieben is an Essential Somatic Clinical Practitioner, an Eden Method Clinical Practitioner, uses Bach Flower Remedies, and is a Centered Riding Instructor, Equine Canada Competition Coach, and Irwin Insights Level 7 Coach. Her passion is bringing self-care tools to people so that they can continue to do what they love! www. somaticrider.com (See her listing in our Business Services section under TRAINERS)

Studbooks turned on to Video Inspections by Covid By Chris Gould / CWHBA - Photography: CWHBA

A number of studbooks have instituted video inspections over the past two years as Covid restrictions played havoc with the ability to gather in groups and to travel inspectors – especially across borders. The Canadian Warmblood Horse Breeders Association is no exception.

In 2020 a few regional inspections did take place and the CWHBA offered a provisional breeding license to those stallions that presented at these events; adjudicated by a minimum of three accredited mare inspectors.

In 2021, with no prospect of bringing in international guest inspectors, the CWHBA switched to a video system. At the time of writing, the final adjudication has not yet been completed, however a number of observations may be made about the pros and cons of the system.

First the stallion licensing inspections were hosted across Canada, as before, on a regional basis (Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia). At each site a senior stallion inspector was present to score in person and supervise the procedure to ensure that all guidelines were followed.

Professional videographers were hired and required to comply with standard protocols. Videos were not to be edited to remove any footage while the horses were being viewed. In the end, each stallion had a 25 to 30 minute video.

Once they were uploaded to the internet, the panel of judges reviewed the videos at their own convenience. Finally a Zoom meeting was convened with two guest judges from Europe, the supervising inspectors, and studbook committee members. Each stallion’s video was then shared on line and reviewed with the supervising inspectors awarding their scores, followed by discussion to arrive at a final mark.

So, how did it work out?

On the plus side there are several advantages:

Expert guest participation was possible, perhaps even to a level not previously possible at a live inspection.

By using freeze-frame or replaying segments, additional time could be spent before arriving at a consensus.

The inspection schedule could be tailored to the regional needs, eliminating the need for a travelling team with a tight schedule. A great advantage in a country as large as Canada, thereby improving the opportunity for stallions to be presented.

Every stallion was evaluated by the same panel. At the live inspections only two inspectors travel to every location for continuity.

On the other hand, there are cons that should be considered:

We had good video, but it’s also possible that a video session that did not follow the guidelines, or was of poor quality, could compromise a stallion’s chances.

There is a lengthy time delay for stallion owners waiting to hear the results.

Video is rarely flattering, so it’s still important to have the on-site inspector, and would be more ideal if the same person could visit each site to improve consistency.

Overall, and even though the final adjudication has not been completed, this first experience was certainly positive from the judges’ perspective, and may prove to be an accurate and fair way to proceed in the future.

However, it remains to be seen whether the advantages will mean that video review becomes a regular part of future stallion gradings.

Canadian Warmblood Joins Alberta High Performance Event Team

Congratulations Courtney Benton and MJ Samba on joining the Alberta High Performance Event Team. Unique to Alberta, sponsored by Alberta Horse Trials, the High Performance Program is designed to support the development of riders, coaches and horses.

Courtney’s horse MJ Samba (Whirlwind x Fantast) bred by Jennette and Mara Coote of MJ Farms was sold to Courtney at the 2017 CWHBA Fall Classic Breeder’s Sale.

Hi! My name is Courtney Benton, I have been riding for almost as long as I can remember and eventing for the last 12 years. I am a professional equestrian based out of Red Deer, AB. I run a small grassroots program and I am actively involved with Red Deer Pony Club. This is my first year with Alberta High Performance.

My current horse is MJ Samba, a 2014 Canadian Warmblood mare who was bred right here in Alberta. I purchased Samba as a 3-year-old from the Warmblood Breeder’s Sale, and she made her eventing debut as a 4-year-old. In 2021, we upgraded to training level, and 1.10m in the jumpers. This upcoming season, we hope to move up to prelim with long term goals of FEI levels. Samba is full of personality and is such a fun partner, her nickname is “Hippo” as she will eat absolutely anything – her favourite treats are jelly donuts and chai tea lattes.

I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity to be a member of the Development Team, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us!

Congratulations go to Lorrie Jamieson of Bentley Alberta taking the win at the Arizona Winter Circuit in Tucson!!

She bested the field in the $24,500 Grand Prix on her own Klondike Victory Farm bred Canadian Warmblood ~ Hooz Da Kat (Zeno x Tempranillo). This team showed their great partnership with a blazing jump off time of 41.763

BREEDING | TRAINING | SALES since 1989

Corso

Corso is a handsome Stallion with all the qualities desired by the modern Sport Horse breeder. His calm, reliable temperament and desire to please along with good bone, correct conformation and ground covering movement combine to complete the perfect package. Corso’s sire “CICERO” is by Cor de la Bryere, an important foundation sire in the Holsteiner breed. To date he has produced quality, good-minded offspring with Thoroughbred-type mares.

Frozen semen only available

Cupid

Cupid is a Holsteiner-bred Canadian Warmblood Stallion. Cupid’s sire “CASSINI” is known for his legendary jumping ability that is passed on to his offspring. His dam is by “SILVANO N,” Olympic Silver Medal dressage horse (following a career as a Grand Prix jumper). This combination of world class jumping and dressage lines make him extremely athletic and versatile, especially combined with his outstanding friendly temperament.

Cupid - Fresh semen available May & June 2022 July onwards - frozen semen For semen, fresh or frozen contact Sheila McDonald at Okanagan Equine Veterinary Services 250-764-9888 Cupid is currently in training with Lindsey Legroulx at Equi-Life Sport Horses’ facility in Kelowna BC.

For more information and breeding contracts for both Stallions, please contact: (Owner) Ueli & Ruth Boss 250-546-7959 in Armstrong BC / E-mail: bossru2002@gmail.com

WAITING FOR YOU IS A

FABULOUS ESTABLISHED EQUESTRIAN CENTRE ON 30 ACRES!

For more information please contact:

Gisela Janzen, Personal Real Estate Corporation E-mail: Sold@100MileHomes.com Cell 250-706-1186 / Office 250-395-3422 100milehomes.com

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Within 15 minutes to 100 Mile House, this beautiful 1,910 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch-style home offers views of the barn, stables and arenas. The layout of the property is so well-designed to make for a very smooth and efficient operation. At present there is a boarding capacity for 27 horses - all with individual stalls and runs. A fabulous 70’x160’ indoor riding area with energy efficient lighting allows for evening riding which is a main draw for this location. Many outbuildings including 3 large hay barns to hold 4,000 bales of hay, main barn, a club house, 9 12’x24’ double stalls & 3 12’x12’ singles. A 100’x200’ outdoor arena, plus a 50’ round pen and so much more. Turnkey operation built up by present owners who are ready to retire now.

I'LL BE IN THE BARN

Author Unknown

When people have come to visit over the years they commonly hear from me I'll be in the barn. When life gets hard I'll be in the barn. When things are just right I'll be in the barn. When the sun shines, The rain falls, Or snow covers the ground, I'll be in the barn. If things seem to be falling apart or if I'm celebrating the simple things, I'll be in the barn. When I'm looking for answers or trying to clear my mind, I'll be in the barn. When I'm looking for myself, I'll be in the barn. If I'm working or trying to relax, I'll be in the barn.

Even when I'm not in the barn my mind drifts there, I find myself thinking about being in the barn..... soaking feed for the next day, mucking or spreading manure, how to fix a problem I've been having with a horse, tack that needs to be cleaned or changed or mended, wounds that need to be doctored, if I need to put on blankets or fly masks. It's where I keep my riches, all my wins and my failures, every one of my hopes, dreams, hardships and memories. You can find them all in the barn, buried in the hay, hiding under a saddle, spilling out of the feed bins, or glimmering with dust in the evening light. I may be covered in dust, dirt, a mash feed, hair, and hay, smell of sweat and manure, and sometimes there may be blood or tears but I'll be there. I'll be in the barn. So if you’re wondering where to find me, I'll be in the barn. If I'm not there, I promise I'm on my way.

IN MEMORIAM

LARRY STEWART

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Stewart, well-known horseman, with his partner and wife, Leslie, of 38 years by his side. Larry suffered a massive stroke in 2015 finally succumbing to pneumonia on February 4, 2022.

Larry was a farrier for 35 years as well as a horse trainer. In 1993 he was introduced to the Parelli Natural Horsemanship program, in 1995 becoming the first instructor in Canada and the Canadian Distributor until 2006.

Larry touched many horse and human lives throughout Canada, Australia, France and the US. He is survived by his son Dallas, stepsons Jeff Stewart, Shane Fraser, stepdaughter Shannon (Rusty Hendrickson), brothers Gary (Betty), Melvin (Ethelann), Ron (Ami), Walter (Alva), Rocky (Cathy), sisters Gail all of Fort St. John, Joyce (Jim) of Red Deer, 9 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at his ranch in Lumby BC on May 28th at 1 pm. Call Leslie at 250-549-0881 for details.

(Shared on Facebook, Author Unknown)

A bunch of young farriers stood looking down at a horse’s foot. They talked of what to do and how to do it, and what measures to take to make the horse sound again, shaking their heads.

Under a shade tree an old man sat, his hands twisted and knuckles scarred. He was slumped and tired, worn out by weather and horses, useless and empty.

Once this old man could shoe any horse with hair on its hide. He could make his hammer blows sing like music on his anvil. He did it for a hundred years until his knees were gone, shoulders ached and his arms grew weak.

He heard talk nearby, listened quietly to the voices of inexperience and slowly stood and limped over to where the boys stood in the sun. He groaned with each halting step.

The old farrier looked down at the horse and said, "Mind if I put in my two cents?" Well, the young men snickered, smiled and looked the old empty man up and down. "You're a little long in the tooth, old fella. I reckon you're here to give us some old time advice?" one of the young men said.

Laughing, another chimed in, "Do us a favour huh, and just go rest in the shade cause we got this problem worked out. You see, times are changed and we're specialists in the farrier trade."

The old man smiled. "I know you boys have it licked. You know just what to do for this old horse and I’m just in your way, but it sounded like you could use a little help. Don't mind me I'll just get on back to the shade."

Hesitantly, one young man stepped forward and touched the ancient farrier on his arm and said, "I'd like to know what you have to say. You see, I want to learn what it takes to be a man like you, to have shod the horses you have. So, please stay and teach me something not in our books, will ya?"

The old man smiled, his face like dry leather and said, "Hand me your tools son, and we can make this horse run and play." With that, the stooped and gray old man lifted the horse’s foot and went to work. He trimmed, shaped the foot, flipped the rasp in his hand and pointed at a cracked and broken heel and said quietly, "Bar shoe is what you need." "Well we knew that ole man," the first guy snickered. "We don’t have any bar shoes on the truck," said another. "What now?"

The wrinkled old man went to the hot shot’s truck, fired his forge and cut a piece of iron. He slipped it into the fire and let it heat. Then fished it out of the inferno and began shaping the red hot steel on the anvil. He worked fast and sure, tapping the hot steel here and there, making a miracle of beauty and grace, a shoe to make the horse stand straight and feel good.

Quenched, holes punched, rasped clean, he took the shoe, filled his mouth with nails and picked up a driving hammer. He limped over to the horse and groaned as he picked up the foot. Taking a breath he steadied himself and one by one he drove the nails.

He slowly straightened up and stretched out his back, curved with years of bending over. A young man picked up the foot and the kids didn't say a whole lot, just shook their heads and one muttered a "well damn."

The old man said, "That sure felt good! I always wonder about the last shoe I'll nail on a horse. I hope this ain't it. I hope God will spare me knowing it’s my last shoe. I will never get over the feeling you get when you've done a horse right."

The old man replaced the kid’s tools, and limped back to his chair in the shade. The young farriers watched. They knew they had seen something they might never see again, just an old farrier.

Last feet. Last horses. The last time you feel needed for your knowledge, for the skills you've worked hard to know.

Someday we will all do those last things, and when our last breath rattles and we close our eyes, a flight of angel wings will lift our souls and carry us away to where the horses always stand, it’s always cool and the anvil always rings true.

GETAWAY

CANADIAN AFFORDABLE ESCAPES

Montana Hill Guest Ranch is a working cattle ranch that sits in the heart of cowboy country in the South Cariboo, located an hour and a half north of Kamloops BC. We are open yearround so you can explore, experience, and live the ranch life in any season. You may even get a chance to be here when calving is in full swing. We have 4 upscale one bedroom log cabins, each with its own Vermont cast iron gas fireplace, ensuite and kitchenette. Each cabin is appointed with western collectables and antiques. You’re welcome to bring your own horse or ride one of ours. Just imagine after a hard day on the trail, coming “home” to enjoy a soothing soak in your own private hot tub. We’re also offering a free artisan cheese making course with a 3-night stay. With hundreds of acres to explore, it’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, canoeing, or just a leisurely walk to slow down and enjoy nature. Other activities available… ATV or snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, axe throwing, archery. You can learn to milk our jersey cow Lexi and feed some calves. Plenty of fun for the whole family.

BRAND A MEMORY

Hundreds of acres to Explore!

Stay with us. Bring your own horse or ride one of ours! Pet Friendly Private hots tubs All Season Destination

Enrich your life with a horseback vacation with access to over 8000 acres! There is so much to see, experience and appreciate in the foothills of Alberta. Join Saddle Peak Trail Rides as we ride into our 44th season (established 1978) of providing guided rides by the hour, day or week. Great family vacations and adventure packages suitable for all levels of riding ability. Rustic lodge and cabin 3 & 4 day trips to the Yaha Tinda, Panther, Dormer river area. Three day pack trips (tent camp) to Devils Head Mountain. Ranch based rides with country inn accommodation (crossingexperience.ca).

The land, as a whole, has always provided opportunities to The land, as a whole, has always provided opportunities to connect its visitors with its countless treasures and natural beauty and continues to be recognized for its intangible qualities, rich history and natural beauty. Father and son Dave and Cody Richards guide small groups along the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies, sharing stories, knowledge and passion of their outfitting heritage in Alberta. Visit our web site, call or text us to reserve your ride today!

A Rustic Adventure awaits You in the Canadian Rockies

Established 1978

Located west of Cochrane, Alberta 403-922-7430 saddlepeaktrailrides@gmail.com

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Chilcotin Holidays offers ranch day rides where sure-footed mountain horses introduce guests to the South Chilcotin Mountains. The horse pack trips take guests further into the mountains, heightening their nature connection, refining their horse care skills and contributing to conservation with species population counts. Guests can ride self-guided through the South Chilcotin Mountains, in the southeast corner of the Chilcotin Ark, an area of international ecological importance. 25 mountain camps located in their guide area, including the South Chilcotin Mountains Provincial Park and the Big Creek Provincial Park, allow riders to explore the mountains, enjoying the subalpine meadows, knowing there is a secure camp with a log cabin, grazing for their horses and a warm fire. Bed and bale with ranch-based cabins or campsites, power, water and grazing for guests' horses is also available. Guests explore the surrounding wilderness with a secure ranch base and a community team available to assist with route choice and horse care. For those who want to develop their horse skills further they can join a one and two week horseback wilderness mentor guide program this summer. Also, students can join Chilcotin Holidays' online community with their training website the Wilderness Training Academy. See the website to find out which wilderness experience is right for you!