Helping Horses Move Better and Feel Better
Equine Kneads Academy exists to raise the standard of equine massage and bodywork through comprehensive education, science-based training, and real-world application—so therapists and bodyworkers graduate confident, capable, and prepared to run successful businesses.
If you’re here, chances are you care deeply about horses and are seeking an education that goes beyond surface-level training. You want quality, well-founded instruction and a full understanding of the equine body—so you can apply your training with confidence, not just memorize techniques.
You’re in the right place.
Built on Lived Experience
Collaborative, Horse-Centered Approach
Foundational to Advanced Education
Led by an Industry Authority
Meet Christina Naas.
Founder • Educator • Licensed Massage Therapist
I’m Christina Naas, founder of Equine Kneads Academy, professional equine massage & bodywork therapist, and Licensed Massage Therapist.
I grew up in the heart of Ocala Florida’s equine community, surrounded by Thoroughbred breeding, hands-on veterinary practices, and many respected horsemen but most importantly - the influence of my grandfather, Raymond Burr. This early exposure shaped how I see horses—not as isolated systems, but as whole beings influenced by how they were managed, their workload, and the environment they lived in.
With over 12 years of clinical practice, I combine deep clinical experience with real-world insight into building and sustaining an equine massage practice. I also hold an A.A.S. in Clinical Therapeutic Massage with a focus on orthopedic and rehabilitation techniques. My advanced education includes:
- Equine Craniosacral Therapy (Maureen Rogers)
- Extensive coursework through Equinology and Science of Motion
- Myofascial Release
- Neuromuscular Re-education
- Corrective Exercise
- Applied Kinesiology
- Cupping, Cryotherapy, and PEMF (human & equine)
Beyond teaching and practice, I collaborate with veterinarians, universities, and OEMs to develop and refine therapy protocols, and am regularly invited to speak and teach for universities, professional organizations, and groups such as the US Pony Club.
Why I Teach Bodywork Differently
Before I ever taught equine massage and bodywork, I lived in a body that didn’t move or feel the way it should.
I was born with spinal fusions, developed scoliosis, and later navigated additional injuries. Chronic pain, muscle tension, and connective tissue restriction weren’t abstract concepts to me—they were daily realities.
That lived experience changed everything.
I learned firsthand that not all therapists, techniques, or education are created equal. I also learned how powerful truly skilled bodywork can be when it’s rooted in anatomy, biomechanics, and critical thinking—not trends or shortcuts.
Why Equine Kneads Was Created
My personal journey, moving from managing pain to truly understanding how the body adapts, compensates, and heals, became the foundation of everything I do today—and ultimately inspired the creation of Equine Kneads.
As I worked hands-on with horses and collaborated with veterinarians, chiropractors, and other professionals, I began to see a recurring problem:
- Talented, well-intentioned therapists lacked depth of education
- Programs taught techniques, but not clinical reasoning
- Many graduates completed programs still unsure how to assess, adapt, or collaborate within a care team
Equine Kneads Academy was created to change that.
This academy is designed to train therapists who:
- Understand why they’re doing what they’re doing
- Can assess the whole horse—not just chase symptoms
- Communicate confidently with owners, veterinarians, and industry professionals
- Are prepared for real-world cases, not just ideal ones
- Understand how to run a successful business
We teach more than techniques.
An education from Equine Kneads is grounded in biomechanics, functional anatomy, clinical reasoning, and collaboration—giving students the tools to assess, adapt, and refer appropriately. We equip students with the skills and confidence to build successful, sustainable businesses.
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Biomechanics & Functional Anatomy
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Observation, Assessment, & Application
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Understanding Compensation Patterns
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Professional Skills for Successful Practice
Understanding how a horse moves is foundational to effective bodywork.
At Equine Kneads, we teach biomechanics and functional anatomy as living, moving systems—not isolated muscles or memorized landmarks. Students learn how structure influences movement, how forces travel through the body, and how posture, workload, and conformation affect function. This foundation allows therapists to assess movement patterns accurately, recognize inefficiencies, and apply bodywork with purpose and precision.
Effective bodywork starts with thoughtful assessment and informed decision-making.
At Equine Kneads, students are taught how to observe, evaluate, and interpret what the horse is showing them—both statically and in motion. Rather than relying on preset routines, we emphasize critical thinking skills that allow therapists to adapt their approach, prioritize findings, and choose techniques with intention. This process builds confidence, consistency, and the ability to work effectively across a wide range of horses and situations.
Horses rarely move in perfect balance, and their bodies often adapt from discomfort, past injuries, or confirmation limitations.
At Equine Kneads, students learn to identify these compensation patterns, where they originate from, and understand how they affect overall movement and performance. Recognizing these patterns is essential for designing effective bodywork plans, preventing further strain, and helping horses move more efficiently and comfortably. By understanding compensation, therapists can address the root causes, not just the symptoms, setting the stage for long-term improvement.
Success as an equine bodywork professional goes beyond hands-on skills.
At Equine Kneads, students learn how to know when and how to refer to veterinarians or other specialists, ensuring horses receive the care they truly need. We emphasize the importance of working as part of a professional care team, developing communication skills, and understanding the dynamics of collaborative equine health.
Our curriculum also prepares students to run a successful, confident business, from building client relationships, managing logistics, and representing their business well. Our graduates are set up to thrive professionally while prioritizing the well-being of every horse they serve.
In Their Own Words
Taking this program was such an amazing experience from start to finish. It was incredibly in-depth and offered the perfect balance of detailed instruction and hands-on practice. I really appreciated being able to apply what we were learning in real time, which helped build my confidence and skill set. The course material is thorough, easy to revisit, and full of valuable information that continues to support me in my work. I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in equine massage—it’s an excellent foundation and truly sets you up for success.
Equine Kneads Academy is taking the standard of education for equine bodyworkers to the next level. This course has a strong focus not only on massage and massage techniques, but learning the anatomy, biomechanics, proper note taking, ethics, and more. I was able to have my business set up and going with in 2-3 weeks of graduating and successfully growing that business month after month.
My journey with Equine Kneads Academy has been nothing short of remarkable. From the moment I enrolled in the Professional Equine Massage Certification program, I knew I was in good hands. Christina's dedication to her students' success, combined with the program's emphasis on holistic learning, has enabled me to grow both personally and professionally.
How To Begin Your Journey
Discover Curriculum That Shapes Skilled Therapists
From foundational knowledge to advanced techniques, our programs teach biomechanics, functional anatomy, movement assessment, and collaborative care. Hands-on experience and critical thinking prepare you to work confidently with horses in real-world situations.
Take the First Step Toward Your Career
Submit your application and secure your spot in the program that fits your goals. We guide you every step of the way so you can start your journey toward becoming a skilled equine bodywork professional.
Turn Your Skills Into a Thriving Career.
Learn how to successfully run appointments, communicate with clients, and create referral networks. We equip you to care for horses with skill while building a business you can run with confidence.
Equine Kneads Academy exists to elevate the industry
one well-educated, thoughtful, and empowered therapist at a time.
While I still work hands-on with horses, and that extensive clinical experience informs everything we teach, the mission of Equine Kneads is now is bigger than individual sessions.
If our mission resonates with you, I’d be honored to be part of your journey.
Get Answers Here
Our Discovery Call is the perfect place to start. This is your opportunity to speak directly with our founder, learn more about the program, and get personalized answers to any questions you have—whether it’s about curriculum, hands-on training, or building your career as an equine bodywork professional.
Equine Massage and Bodywork Reference Guide
$29.96
A must-have for every horse owner who wants to better support their horse’s health and comfort. This beginner-friendly guide covers everything you need to start safely and confidently:
- Key anatomy and massage concepts
- Palpation and assessment techniques
- 10 safe, effective massage strokes
- When to massage—and when not to
- Safety tips and guidance on involving your care team
Created by a certified equine bodyworker and educator, this guide is professionally written to help you care for your horse with confidence and skill.
