The Equine Hanna Somatics® BLOG

Stretching Horses vs. Voluntary Pandiculation

Stretching Horses vs. Voluntary Pandiculationby: Alissa Mayer BSc(Equine) C-EHSEPublished on: 11/25/2025

Even though some of the somatic exercises we do in EHS can look similar to what many bodyworkers, physiotherapists, chiropractors, vets and trainers do or recommend as 'stretches' - Voluntary Pandiculation is different...

chronic muscle contractionsstretchingstretch reflexpandiculationconsentpermission
Stretching Horses vs. Voluntary Pandiculation

"EHS is the Future of Bodywork" (unpacked)

"EHS is the Future of Bodywork" (unpacked)by: Alissa Mayer BSc(Equine) C-EHSEPublished on: 07/28/2025

This is why I believe EHS is the future of bodywork, what makes EHS unique in the field of ‘somatics’ and what that difference looks like on the inside of the motor-sensory systems of both the horse and the human practitioner.

ehshanna somaticsvoluntary pandiculationeleanor criswellkinetic mirroringhorse posturechronic muscle contractionsequine rehabbodyworkfuture of bodyworkmotor interventionsensory interventionsensory inputmotor outputunique
"EHS is the Future of Bodywork" (unpacked)

Indications, Contraindications & How often do horses need Equine Hanna Somatics® (EHS)?

Indications, Contraindications & How often do horses need Equine Hanna Somatics® (EHS)?by: Alissa Mayer BSc(Equine) C-EHSEPublished on: 04/08/2025

It depends... here are the recommendations we teach in the EHS Professional Training & Certification Program about the ideal schedule for most horses...

ehshanna somaticsehs indicationsehs contraindicationsideal ehs schedulefrequency equine somaticsvoluntary pandiculationeleanor criswellthomas hannafeldenkraiskinetic mirroringhorse posturechronic muscle contractionsequine rehab
Indications, Contraindications & How often do horses need Equine Hanna Somatics® (EHS)?

What is the Stretch Reflex (myotatic reflexes)?

What is the Stretch Reflex (myotatic reflexes)?by: Alissa Mayer BSc(Equine) C-EHSEPublished on: 02/23/2025

Golgi Tendon Organs (GTO) & Stretch Reflexes: What are they and how do we work with them in Hanna Somatics?

chronic muscle contractionsstretchingstretch reflexmyotonic reflexmuscle spindlespandiculation
What is the Stretch Reflex (myotatic reflexes)?

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Disclaimer: Equine/Canine/Human Hanna Somatics is not bodywork or manual therapy, and is not a diagnostic or treatment tool. The information included on this website and in any affiliated programs is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional veterinary or medical advice, may not be current, and is subject to change without notice. We encourage all members of the community to seek guidance from a licensed veterinarian, physician or allied healthcare practitioner regarding specific medical concerns or questions about your own or your animal’s health.

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