About Me

Gentle, thoughtful bodywork for horses carrying the weight of past experiences — helping them release tension, reconnect, and move with greater comfort and ease.

Hi, I’m Heidi -

Heidi as a child with her first pony — lifelong connection with horses

An Equine Massage Therapist and founder of Epona Bodyworks. Horses have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. From my first ride as a toddler on my aunt’s ranch, to years in the hunter/jumper world with my own horses, they’ve shaped not just how I ride — but who I am.

For many years, I built a career in human resources, helping people and businesses grow. But deep down, I knew I was meant for something different — work that felt aligned with my heart, my values, and my purpose. That calling led me back to the horses who shaped me, and to the healing path of bodywork.

Today, my passion is helping horses who quietly carry tension, worry, or old patterns — the ones who may look fine on the outside, but whose bodies still hold the weight of earlier experiences. I’m dedicated to helping these horses soften, let go of what no longer serves them, and feel safe, seen, and supported in their bodies again.

I blend specialized training in equine massage, myofascial release, and subtle energy-informed techniques, integrating proven methods with deep presence and attuned connection. Each session is shaped by what your horse needs that day — always led by feel, connection, and respect for their unique story.

I’d be honored to support your horse’s journey.

My Approach

At Epona Bodyworks, I offer customized bodywork that supports your horse physically, emotionally, and energetically. My integrated approach helps release physical restriction, promote relaxation, and support nervous system balance — creating space for greater comfort, movement, and ease.

Many of the horses I work with are navigating life after high-demand careers, early training, rescue transitions, or simply holding tension from past experiences that affect their well-being today.

Each session is guided by attentive listening and the horse’s cues — meeting them exactly where they are, whether they’re processing old patterns or simply needing support in the moment.

Two hands placed on the back of a horse - equine massage therapy

Massage Therapy

Relieves muscular tension, promotes circulation, and supports tissue health.

Outline drawing of two hands cupping a heart with radiant lines above it - intuitive energy work equine wellness

Myofascial Release

Restores mobility, posture, and comfort by addressing fascial restrictions.

Outline drawing of two hands cupping a heart with radiant lines above it - intuitive energy work equine wellness

Mind-Body Integration Techniques

Gentle, hands-on or near-body methods that encourage relaxation, support emotional balance, and promote nervous system regulation.

Here’s what guides my approach:

  • Whole-horse wellness
    My work supports your horse physically, emotionally, and energetically — because lasting change happens when we address both the body and the deeper patterns that may still be held from past experiences.

  • Hands-on skill, heart-led intention
    I combine equine massage and myofascial release to address muscular imbalances, tension, and restriction — always guided by presence, sensitivity, and intuitive listening.

  • Attuned + Adaptive
    No two horses are the same. I listen closely to breath, body language, and subtle cues to meet your horse exactly where they are in that moment — whether they’re processing old patterns or simply needing support that day.

  • Compassionate Partnership
    Whether they’re retired, recently rehomed, in training, or adjusting after stress, every horse deserves to feel safe, seen, and fully supported in their body — and that’s my goal in every session.

Heidi performing equine bodywork and massage in Barrington IL — helping a horse release tension
Epona Bodyworks logo inspired by Celtic goddess of horses

The Inspiration Behind EPONA

The name Epona is inspired by the Celtic goddess of horses—protector of the herd, guardian of fertility, freedom, and the sacred bond between horses and humans.

When I was searching for the right name for this work, Epona came through like a quiet “yes.” She reflects the heart of this practice: deep respect for the horse, the power of connection beyond words, and the strength found in quiet, attuned presence.

I wanted a name that not only honored my personal roots with horses, but also the deeper connection at the heart of this work. To me, Epona Bodyworks is more than a service—it’s a space where horses are seen, felt, and supported in their full being. Where healing is both physical and energetic. And where the spirit of the horse is always honored.

My Philosophy

I believe every horse deserves to feel safe, understood, and free in their own body — not just as athletes, but as sentient beings capable of healing and ease, even after difficult experiences.

My work is grounded in respect for the whole horse — body, mind, and spirit — and a commitment to helping them release tension, rebuild trust in their bodies, and move through the world with greater comfort and confidence.

Ready to Support Your Horse’s Well-Being?