The Bowen Technique

Bowen is a gentle, attentive, hands-on therapy that can produce remarkable results; Bowen encourages the proper functioning of all of the body systems, including those responsible for the elimination of toxins. This technique allows and prompts the body to reset and heal itself, thus promoting relief from pain and recovery of lost energy. The experience of the treatment is gentle, subtle and relaxing.

Treatment is given at weekly intervals and generally two to four treatments are sufficient to achieve lasting relief from even long-standing pain together with any other complaints.
The wide variety of complaints that may be successfully resolved or substantially diminished by this treatment include:

• Back and neck pain Sports injuries Frozen shoulder

• Tennis and golfer’s elbow Lymphatic drainage Headaches

• Respiratory conditions Chronic fatigue Stress

• Fibromyalgia High blood pressure AND MORE

Bowen was developed by Tom Bowen in Australia during the 1950’s to 1980’s and then by Oswald Rentsch who still practises and teaches today. Tom Bowen was self taught and treated up to 60 people a day. A government enquiry into his work discovered that he had helped tens of thousands of people to overcome complaints using a series of gentle, non-manipulative moves over muscle and connective tissue using nothing more than his thumbs and index fingers. Research is slowly making inroads into how this therapy works and it is believed that the moves ‘retune’ the body’s connective tissues to their normal state.

Today, Bowen is practised world-wide. There are more than 700 Bowen practitioners in the UK.

What should I expect?

During your consultation you will discuss your lifestyle, your health and the reason for your visit. You will generally be treated on a couch with contact either directly on skin, which is more effective, or through loose clothing; seated and standing positions may also be used. The hands-on work usually lasts between 30 and 45 minutes.

The moves are made with fingers and thumbs on and over precise positions within the body, in groups of 2 – 8. There are regular 2 minute breaks between each group; these breaks allow the body to assimilate the work done. The direction of the moves generally progresses from the torso of the body outward. In the majority of initial sessions moves will concentrated on the back, neck and shoulder areas.

During a Bowen session the majority of patients experience a sense of relaxation and loosening of muscle tension. After each treatment session it is recommended, that throughout the remainder of the day, when you are in a sitting position that you get up every 30 minutes and move around for a minute. You will be advised to return for another session in approximately 7 days; it is best to avoid other hands-on therapy whilst undertaking a course of Bowen Technique. Other guidelines to follow to get the maximum benefit out of this treatment is to go for a daily walk and drink at least 6 - 8 glasses of water each day.

What Results should I expect from a Bowen Session?

Most people report relief of symptoms following their first session. Results will vary based on the severity of your condition. Changes made through Bowen are generally long lasting and most people report relief of additional symptoms other than for the conditions for which they originally sought relief.

Occasionally people feel detoxification effects; these can continue for a few days and include aching muscles, mild nausea, mild headaches, changes in body temperature, and minor changes in elimination. The effects of detoxification will be lessened by increasing the amount of plain water you drink and a walk of at least 15 minutes every day. Detoxification will only occur if toxins are present in your body. Ways to lessen any effects will be discussed at your consultation and you will be given an aftercare advice sheet.

How many Sessions will I need?

Most conditions are effectively changed in fewer than 3 - 5 sessions. Musculoskeletal symptoms generally change very quickly and some chronic or organic conditions may require ongoing maintenance sessions. Many people choose to have monthly maintenance sessions once initial complaints are addressed.

Is it safe for me?

Bowen can be applied safely in most situations. Some moves are not carried out during pregnancy.

Article coutesy of Martin Bale.