I’m sure that you have all heard about the benefits of “dry body brushing” from celebrities such as Miranda Kerr. Well guess what? Grooming your horse works in the same way, meaning that it is much, much more than a method of keeping your horse clean – it also provides a way of pampering your horse and keeping them healthy!
Here are some benefits of grooming your horse that you may not have know:
- Lymphatic Drainage – Brushing your horse helps to stimulate the lymphatic system which is responsible for draining waste and microbes from the tissues and emptying them into the bloodstream for removal from the body.
- Exfoliation – Grooming removes dead, dry skin which can block the pores and prevent the elimination of toxins through the skin. It also helps to stimulate the secretion of sebum to keep the skin supple, prevent dryness and make the coat shine.
- Circulation – Grooming increases circulation to the skin, enabling the exchange of nutrients and waste products.
- Fat Distribution – Brushing helps to soften solid fat deposits below the skin and distribute the fat deposits more evenly.
- Relaxation – Brushing should help to relax your horse and strengthen your bond.
If your horse is feeling stiff and sore, grooming can help to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms and reduce the need for regular bodywork. In fact, I recommend regular grooming to my EMT (equine massage) clients as an extremely simple way of maintaining overall comfort and suppleness in the musculature and fascia.
The grooming tool that I highly recommend is the “Hunter Ladybug Brush”. Made with soft rubber v-shaped bristles, it effectively stimulates the skin and underlying muscles, easily removes hair, dust and mud, and doesn’t cause any discomfort to your horse (unlike traditional curry combs). It is also a really great option for horses who flinch when groomed. I currently sell this product in Australia and New Zealand via my online Store. It is also widely available from the UK and Germany.
