Education & Credentials

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Integrating Science, Subtle Energy, and Somatic Awareness in Service of Human and Equine Wellbeing

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Saskia Struik brings together over two decades of study, practice, and teaching in the fields of education, equine wellness, and human self-regulation.
Her work is informed by an ever-evolving blend of science-based understanding, Taoist philosophy, and direct, compassionate experience with horses and people.

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Academic Foundation

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• Bachelor of Education, The Netherlands
  A foundation in learning theory, pedagogy, and the art of guiding growth through gentle, experiential discovery.

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Professional Certifications

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• Certified Masterson Method® Practitioner (MMCP)
  Masterson Method Integrated Equine Performance Bodywork

• Masterson Method® Equine Specialist (MMES)
  Facilitating heart-centered connection between horses and humans through awareness, touch, and presence.

• Certified Level 1 Equine Hanna Somatics® Educator (EHSE L1)
  Educated through Equine Hanna Somatics, now taught by Alissa Mayer, continuing the lineage founded by Eleanor Criswell, Ed.D.

• Certified Equine Acupressure Practitioner – Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute
  Comprehensive education in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, meridian balancing, and energetics.

• Certified Tao Alchemy Arts Qigong & Meditation Teacher – under Minke de Vos
  In-depth training in Taoist energy cultivation, internal alchemy, and restorative Qigong practices for physical, emotional, and spiritual harmony.

• Reiki Master Practitioner – Usui Shiki Ryoho Lineage
  Advanced studies in energetic touch and mindful compassion within the Usui system.

• ​Basic Straightness Training Instructor (2025) - Straightness Training - Marijke de Jong

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Foundation for Shamanic Studies - Advanced Training Program

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• Saskia has completed both the Online and In-Person Shamanic Healing Training Programs through the Foundation for Shamanic Studies (Michael Harner lineage).​ This comprehensive training in core shamanic practice deepened her understanding of the spiritual dimension of wellness and it's direct relationship with nature. These studies inform her work by grounding ancient cross-cultural healing principles in ethical, heart-centered practice, and by aligning with the Taoist roots present in modalities such as Chi Nei Tsang, itself a shamanic healing art thousands of years old.

• Programs taught by Foundation for Shamanic Studies (FSS) with Wade Prpich (Calgary Facilitator).

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Taiji & Qigong Studies - Dharma-Zen Tai Chi Studio

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• For nearly a decade now, Saskia studies Taiji and Qigong under Danny Lay of Dharma-Zen Tai Chi Studio. Danny’s teaching lineage draws from the Chen Pan Ling (“99 Style”) Tai Chi Chuan, a synthesis of the Chen, Yang, and Wu family styles developed in Taiwan under Grandmaster Chen Pan Ling. His instruction integrates martial precision, Taoist philosophy, and Zen Dharma principles - an approach that cultivates harmony of body, breath, and spirit.This long-term practice continues to shape the internal rhythm, grounding, and fluid awareness that inform all aspects of Saskia's work with both humans and horses.​

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Additional Trainings & Influences

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Saskia’s ongoing education reflects her lifelong curiosity about how body, breath, energy, and awareness interconnect across species.
Her studies include:​

• Chi Nei Tsang / TaoTouch® with Gilles Marin, and teachers Peter Melnychuk and Tiffiny Fyans

• Acutonics® Sound Healing with Theresa Lee Morris and Erin Taylor (Canada)

• Equinebodyworks Knowledge Network with Rebecca S. Tenges

• Straightness Training (ST) – Classical movement education founded by Marijke de Jong

• Centaur Biomechanics with Dr. Russell MacKechnie-Guire

• Veterinary Compendium continuing education with Dr. Kevin Haussler, DVM, DC, PhD

• Full Court of Atonement – Energetic work developed by Amy Jo Ellis

• Equine Anatomy and Health Education through Gillian Higgins (Horses Inside Out)​

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Mentorship & Professional Roles

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• Mentor and Coach for the Masterson Method Certification Program

• Collaborator and Educator in multidisciplinary professional development for equine practitioners

• Facilitator of Taoist-inspired Qigong and meditation practices for both individuals and groups

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Ongoing Study & Inspiration

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Saskia continues to study the relationship between physiology, energy, and consciousness through teachers and influences including:

• Dr. Rick Hanson (Neurodharma, Positive Neuroplasticity)

• Jack Kornfield PhD & Tara Brach PhD (Mindfulness and Compassion Practices)

• Mantak Chia (Taoist Internal Alchemy)

• Michael Singer (Spiritual Author and Speaker) 

• Minke de Vos (Tao Alchemy Arts)

• The Tao Te Ching and Classical Taoist texts

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