So what is Bowen Therapy and how does it work?
Bowen Therapy (or Bowen Technique) is a very effective bodywork technique used to address a wide range of conditions. The aim is to treat the cause of joint pain, muscle issues, sports injuries, and ongoing and intermittent pain. It involves a series of gentle moves that directly manipulate skin, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, nerves and fascia. There is no manipulation or adjustment of hard tissue (such as bone, for example). The technique has a specific effect on the fascia, which is the soft connective tissue surrounding muscles, muscle fibres and organs, and creates a network throughout the entire body. Each move the Bowen practitioner makes at specific locations on the body delivers signals to the nervous system, stimulating the body’s natural response to bring about self-healing.
These specific Bowen moves affect the body’s tissues in a variety of ways. Not only does it relax tight muscles and increase hydration in the fascia, it can increase tone in the core muscles and contractile strength within the fascia. It has a strong calming effect on the autonomic nervous system creating a sense of deep relaxation.
In recent years, research has examined the role of the fascia in the body and how it contributes to body stability and movement, other than just connecting body structures together. Fascia has “recoil” properties playing an important role in movement. The recoil properties of the lumbar fascia, for example, reduces the effort required by the muscular system when walking or running. It acts a little like a “bungee”. When this recoil property is compromised through lack of reciprocal tension in the fascia, it can result in more exertion required through the muscular system to perform these tasks. This can result in muscular fatigue and tension in the area impacted; leading to back pain and tension, in this case.
During treatment, the Bowen practitioner applies gentle moves using the thumbs and fingers on precise points on the body. There are short breaks between groups of moves allowing the body to rest and to give it time to respond and accept the signals received. These short rest periods are an important part of the treatment and gives the body the chance to make adjustments, re-balance and relieve tension. Rather than working on a specific area, the Bowen Technique addresses the body as a whole due to the myofascial inter-connections throughout the body. For example, as a Bowen practitioner, I find shoulder problems can often originate in the pelvic region. Addressing problems in the lower part of the body can resolve many shoulder issues without having to do any extensive work around the shoulder. In this instance, resolving lower body issues addresses the root cause of the shoulder pain and restriction.
Following treatment it can take up to 48 hours for the treatment to take effect and four days for the body to start the healing process. Outcomes from Bowen Therapy treatment range from long-term rapid relief and permanent remission, to significant improvement in mobility, stress levels, pain and general sense of well-being. As it works on the fascia, it often successfully resolves persistent problems that have not responded to other treatments. Many recipients of Bowen Therapy report having a good night's sleep after a Bowen treatment and experience increased energy, improved circulation and feeling balanced.
On-going research has demonstrated that the Bowen Technique is helpful in alleviating back and neck pain, headaches, frozen shoulder, reduce pain in fibromyalgia patients and improve overall flexibility. As research continues, further evidence will emerge to strengthen and consolidate the Bowen Technique's effectiveness and usefulness in general health and well-being.
Where did Bowen Therapy originate?
The Bowen Technique was developed in the 1950s by the late Thomas (Tom) Ambrose Bowen of Geelong, Australia. He continued to develop and refine the technique throughout his lifetime. Mr. Bowen had a very busy clinic in Geelong, performing thousands of treatments per year before retiring.
Today, the Bowen Technique is known throughout the world and continues to gain popularity and recognition as an effective treatment.
Why not try it today and discover for yourself what this amazing technique can do for you.
What does a typical treatment session involve?
An initial Bowen Therapy session takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes, which includes a full body assessment and treatment. The assessment is an important part of the process as it helps the practitioner determine the best course of treatment for that session.
The majority of the Bowen moves can be performed through light, loose clothing. Although, you may be asked to remove thick or heavy garments and a light sarong be used to cover any exposed areas. If you wish, you may choose to wear your underclothes and be professionally draped using a sarong for modesty and comfort. No oils are used on the skin. Some Bowen moves are more effective being performed directly on skin, rather than through clothing. Your practitioner will guide you through the process on upon your visit.
During the session, the practitioner will perform groups of gentle movements with breaks of two to five minutes (sometimes longer) in between each group of moves allowing the body to respond before commencing the next sequence of moves.
Follow-up treatments are generally re-scheduled for 7 to 10 days and takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your presenting condition and progress. Usually, three treatments at weekly intervals are sufficient to achieve lasting relief; although, further treatments maybe required (especially for long-term chronic conditions such as a long-standing injury and complex cases). Many of my clients have experienced significant relief and resolution of their presenting complaint after one or two sessions. The practitioner will discuss with you what is appropriate for your specific condition and needs.
How can Bowen Therapy help you?
The Bowen Technique can be used safely for people of all ages and abilities, including new born babies and the elderly. It can be safely considered for the following conditions:
back pain and sciatica (sciatic pain)
neck and shoulder problems (including frozen shoulder)
knee, ankle and foot problems (including plantar fasciitis)
migraines, headaches, ear-aches, tinnitus and sinus problems
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems - Jaw problems
digestive and bowel problems (such as IBS)
haemorrhoids
fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
groin pain, pelvic tilt, postural and gait problems
prostate problems
carpal tunnel syndrome, RSI and tennis elbow
arthritis and joint pain
stress, anxiety and sleep disturbances
sports and accident injuries
fertility and hormonal imbalances (including peri-menopause)
childhood concerns: bedwetting, colic, postural problems, behavioural and learning issues caused by myofascial problems
Follow the link below to find out what some of my clients have had to say about their experience:
Book an appointment today by clicking on the link below. Your body will thank you for it!
I look forward to seeing you soon.
Socrates Mistos (MBAA, MNHAA)
BHSc (Nat), Dip BT
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