Release tension. Enhance function. Improve performance.
Equine Structural Integrator and Massage Therapist
Serving the greater Seattle, WA area
HOLISTIC PRACTICE
PHILOSOPHY
Dr. Fiona Boardman, LAMP, PhD (Biology)
As a structural integrator, treating the whole horse is at the forefront of my practice. Conformation, posture, injuries and training can all cause tension that sends a rippling effect of compensation through the body. My work seeks to unravel these patterns, and improve balance and function throughout the body.
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When working with horses, I draw on their body language, my well-developed sense of touch and my background as a highly-trained scientist to piece together their tension patterns and customize the session or series. Each session, I carefully listen and respond to the horse, so as to create a relaxing environment where the horse and I are working together. This achieves emotional and physical relaxation in the horse, and supports positive, long-lasting changes from the inside-out.
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Horses will often lick and chew, yawn, stretch, sigh, shake or fall asleep during sessions, all signs that they are switching to their parasympathetic nervous system ("rest and digest state") and are releasing tension. See it for yourself!
Fiona is a lifelong learner and student of the horse. She continuously seeks to deepen her understanding of the equine body and expand her toolkit to help horses feel and perform their best.
What is Structural Integration?
Structural integration is a form of therapy that is performed on horses over 5 sessions to systematically address the entire body. The aim of the work is to restore balance and function in the body as whole by addressing the connective tissue that holds us animals together. Relieving fascial holdings and lengthening tissue works to alleviate tension and compensation patterns in the body. Components of the body are then integrated across their junctions to improve overall functioning. SI can help treat chronic pain and tension, support soundness, aid in rehabilitation and improve performance, among other benefits.
STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION SERIES
A five-session Equine Structural Integration Series through which the body is holistically unwound to address tension and compensation patterns held in fascia (connective tissue). A good option for a horse who has chronic tension, or has not had regular bodywork. Followed by maintenance sessions as-needed.
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​$500 for five sessions, paid up front
SINGLE SESSION & MAINTENANCE
A mix of massage and structural integration work for horses who have had the series, or who only need maintenance work. Also a good option for a first appointment, if you want to try it out. Sessions are typically about an hour. Extra travel fees apply when located >1 hour from Seattle. Discounts available for 3+ horses.
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$110 per session
$100 per session for 2+ horses
NOW BOOKING NEW CLIENTS!!
BOOKING
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Washington State Large Animal Massage Lic#AM61492841
Insured by Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals | ABMP
Kristal B, Trainer
"I’ve seen a huge improvement in just a few sessions with Nola!
She is an older mare and does not have the best conformation, however with Fiona’s work she is standing correctly and moving in a much more relaxed way. Her canter transitions are smoother and lacking her previous drama."
Pat, Horse Owner
"There was a point where Journey was so sore, she was struggling with moving to the left. Fiona was able to identify a certain area around her hip and was able to get her to relax and move with ease. "
Sydney P, Horse Owner
"The series has really helped Electra come back into work after having a foal. Electra is better able to engage her core and lift and stretch through her back"
See for yourself!
About Me.
Fiona has loved horses for as long as she can remember and was fortunate to train and show in the jumpers as a teenager. While in graduate school, Fiona bought a 4-year-old off-the-track thoroughbred mare and began a journey of education on holistic and ethical horse care and training. After seeing the change that these practices made in her own young mare, Fiona wanted to further her education to help other horses. Today, as a graduate of the Equine Natural Movement School, Fiona is a certified Equine Structural Integration therapist, licensed Large Animal Massage Practitioner, and professional member of NBCAAM. Fiona also holds PhD in Biology from the University of Washington, where she has published in several peer-reviewed scientific journals. She is a lifelong learner and enjoys applying her scientific skills to assessing and helping horses.
Education & Qualifications
2022-2023
LAMP & Structural Integrator
Equine Natural Movement School
Fiona completed a 500 hour course at the Equine Natural Movement School under renowned equine structural integrator, Joseph Freeman. Fiona is a NBCAAM certified equine massage therapist and licensed Large Animal Massage Practitioner (LAMP).
2020-2024
PhD Biology
University of Washington
In spring of 2024, Fiona graduated with a PhD in biology. She is a published author in several peer-reviewed scientific journals. Fiona enjoys applying her scientific training towards assessing and helping horses, as well as staying up to date on new research concerning equine therapy and welfare.
2015-2019
Bachelor of Science
University of Washington
New Client Info
1. Welcome! Once we are in contact, you will receive a digital intake form and liability waiver to complete before or during your horse's first session (I also carry hard copies).
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2. Plan ahead! Ideally, your horse will have the rest of the day off following their session to adjust to changes in their body. Plan your ride for before the session, and schedule only light work the following day. Exceptions to this are horse show sessions.
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3. Prepare! Horses should have relatively clean and dry bodies for their session. Make sure they are blanketed or sheltered if it is raining. Please do not use slippery coat sprays before the session.
4. Be mindful! You are welcome to attend your horse's session, but please avoid distracting your horse so that they can focus on their session and the sensations in their body
​5. Ask Questions! Feel free to ask me questions about what I'm doing or feeling at any time, or follow up with me about any notes
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Thank you for choosing Open Stride Equine Therapy! I look forward to helping you and your horse
GET IN TOUCH
Fiona Boardman
Seattle, WA
text: 206 - 235 - 2294
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