When an EMT practitioner touches the horse, they are sending messages to the horses’ nervous system via the skin. Each technique used will have a different physiological effect and can either promote calmness and trust in a nervous horse or provide stimulation for a despondent / tired horse.
Massage generally taps into the parasympathetic nervous system to promote relaxation, improve mood and reduce pain through both the release of endorphins* (which are natural pain and stress fighters) and by interrupting the pain cycle from spasms when pressure is applied. The relaxation response is always obvious in a horse, and he will show his approval through common reactions such as licking, chewing and yawning. Furthermore, relaxation of the horse will contribute towards improved breathing, heart rate, circulation, digestion and mood.