Horses have been a special part of my life for as long as I can remember. I was thrilled at the age of 13 to get my first horse, a 16-month-old Appendix we named “Candy”. Years later, as an adult living in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, I’ve had plenty of trail riding adventures, arena play, and obstacle time. While I love caring for, playing with, and riding my horses, I especially enjoy developing a special relationship with each one.
My anxious gelding and I were participating in a local groundwork group one day when a member demonstrated a few basic Masterson Method techniques. When every horse, including my nervous guy, dropped their head, then completely relaxed and yawned, I knew this was something I needed to explore. So, after retiring from a 37-year career in human services, I began my Masterson Method® Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork journey. In December of 2024, I achieved Certified Practitioner status, and launched WhisperTouch Equus Bodyworx, LLC in January 2025.
Whatever a horse’s lifestyle, they accumulate tension in their bodies that over time leads to restrictions in their movement. The MM bodywork helps the horse release tension he is not able to do on his own, thereby reducing restrictions and increasing range of motion. One of my favorite aspects that differentiates this bodywork from other modalities is that it works with the horse, not just on the horse. They benefit physically, mentally, and emotionally from this gentle interactive bodywork. I enjoy being able to demonstrate a few of the basic techniques to the horse’s human so that he or she can continue to enhance their horse’s performance between sessions and build a more trusting relationship. This has been a truly rewarding journey and I am excited for the opportunities ahead to support horses and their humans, as well as share the benefits of The Masterson Method®.
Lonnie Beth O’Baugh, MMCP
WhisperTouch Equus Bodyworx, LLC
Staunton, Augusta County, and surrounding areas