Laurian Pope is an equine and human bodyworker specializing in Myofascial Release and Craniosacral Release. A lifetime horse enthusiast, Laurian has spent nearly three decades both in and out of the saddle, amassing horsemanship skills that lend themselves to success in her bodywork practice. Those skills, combined with numerous professional certifications and an innate calming energy, allow Laurian to excel in her field, where her paramount goal is to help horses and riders feel their absolute best.
Laurian serves horses and riders of all levels and disciplines, from the grassroots through upper level competitors. Laurian is comfortable working with all genders, breeds, personalities, and collaborates with clients to help them achieve their best through bodywork.
Laurian believes that if we take the time to listen and treat our bodies, and that of our equine partners, the result is the ability to spend more time doing what we love and less time fighting with a restricted form.
Laurian has competed through Preliminary level Eventing, and is a member of both Norfolk Hunt (MA) and Aiken Hounds (SC). Through her time eventing and foxhunting, Laurian learned how a flexible and balanced system can greatly improve the performance and quality of life of our equine partners. With this innate understanding of both human and equine kinesthetics, she decided to become a bodyworker for horses and riders.
Laurian’s transition from equestrian to bodyworker began when she met her mentor, Sharon Taylor, a renowned Equine Physical Therapist in the New England area. After two years of shadowing Sharon, Laurian became certified in Equine Manual Therapy. Additional accreditation was achieved at Cortiva Institute for Massage Therapy. Upon completion, Laurian became a licensed therapist for humans in both Massachusetts and South Carolina. In 2013, Laurian received her National Certification, after which she started her business, Freedom of Movement, which has grown exponentially ever since. Laurian has a tireless commitment to continuing education—she is constantly furthering her human and equine bodywork education through all available modalities. She most recently completed her expert level Myofascial Release certification in October of 2023.
“Laurian Pope was instrumental in getting my 12 yr. old Dutch Warmblood back to the show ring. Her dedication to improving his flexibility and range of motion has helped him to receive multiple 8’s in Third Level dressage tests!”
Laurian Pope’s Credentials
Trainee to Sharon Taylor, 2009 - 2011
BA, Mount Holyoke College, 2011.
Working student to Sarah Morton, 2011 - 2013.
Certified Equine Manual Therapy.
Licensed human massage therapist in Massachusetts and South Carolina.
Recipient of National Certification for massage.
Completed CST 1 through Upledger Institute.
Worked with AA winning hunters and jumpers. Performed massage therapies on dressage, 3-day eventing, and pleasure horses.
Completed Level 1 Equine Unwinding through Holistic Horseworks
Expert Level Myofascial Release Certification, 2023
To book a service with Laurian Pope and Freedom of Movement, please fill out the Contact Us form or call 339.234.0728.
Freedom of Movement is located in Aiken, SC from January - April and Boston, MA from May - December.