What is Bowen?
Bowen Therapy works in many ways. This healing technique is a dynamic system of muscle and connective tissue (fascia) therapy that encourages the body to balance itself. Each treatment supports the body to restore its capacity to function at its best and to restore symmetry to the muscular skeletal system. This technique involves rolls, crosswise, over muscle fibres, fascia, ligaments and tendons. Using Bowen moves at strategic points on the body, plus using procedures chosen for your particular presentations, the therapist stimulates the body’s innate healing system. Pain and inflammation is reduced, muscle tension alleviated, toxins reduced, the cells of your body improve their function, circulation, lymphatic drainage and hormones stimulated. Nearly all the moves correspond with well-known acupuncture points. Bowen work pays a lot of attention to the fascia of the body as it has such a profound effect on posture and in particular by the way we hold our spine.
One of the most noticeable effects of a Bowen treatment is the feeling of wellness that it induces.
How long does a treatment take?
Approximately 1 hr for adults, ½ hr for children.
What can I expect in a treatment?
Usually treatments are carried out on a massage table. We use assessments to identify major muscle imbalances and tension. Bowen Therapy moves, mainly across muscle fibres, are performed at specific points of the body. Between the moves there are some pauses (waits). Although we balance the whole body, each treatment is tailored for you and your presentations.
Why are there frequent pauses throughout the treatment?
When receiving Bowen Therapy, the moves that are performed on the muscles, ligaments, tendons and nerves are affecting many systems in the body. The wait between moves, or therapeutic pause, which vary from person to person and from condition to condition, allows the body to respond and integrate what is being done. The therapist may leave the room. This lets the person relax without feeling they have to keep up a conversation or that they are being watched. So, the next time you are receiving Bowen, know there is a LOT going on in your body, working to improve your wellness on every level.
How many treatments will I need?
It is recommended that you allow 3 treatments, 5 – 10 days apart. After this it depends on your condition(s) being addressed and how long you have had your symptoms. Everyone is unique with unique healing abilities that can be affected by emotions/stress, nutrition, hydration, age, posture, work conditions etc. Maintenance treatments every 4-6 weeks or to suit your circumstances are highly advised. These treatments help keep conditions from reoccurring and keep you feeling well and relaxed. Bodies need a service just like cars!
I can’t lie on a table; can I still have Bowen?
Yes, Bowen Therapy can be done seated.
I am pregnant, is that OK?
Yes! Bowen is great for you and your baby.
We have great moves for alleviating pain from the pregnancy, like back pain and sciatica.
As Bowen can help align the body this in turn can then perhaps ease delivery.
Post-natal Bowen is great for helping the Mother to recover from giving birth and help balance the menstrual cycle.
Is Bowen suitable for children and babies?
Yes! Bowen is suitable from newborns to teenagers.
Babies will benefit from baby Bowen which involves very few moves. Bowen helps the baby to recover from any birth trauma and symptoms such as colic or restlessness.
Keeping children’s bodies aligned as they grow will benefit them greatly. Especially in this era of extensive technology use. Bowen should be considered for any pain, headaches and bed wetting.
As Bowen helps balance hormones teenagers benefit very well. Treatments are very relaxing and calming, this can support their mood and help them focus! Bowen can help to ease the discomforts from this high growth stage of life.
Why is it important to drink water after a treatment?
Some people are very dehydrated and in some cases people have high levels of toxins in their body. This could be from a build-up of lactic acid through too much exercise or as a result of toxins created by lifestyle. Bowen will stimulate the body to release these toxins, drinking water can help with this and minimise any detox symptoms. Bowen also rehydrates the fascia (connective tissue) and muscle fibres. You may feel thirsty after a treatment.
Why shouldn’t I exercise after a treatment.
As your body is still integrating the work it is best to avoid strenuous exercise or activity. The crucial healing time is 24hrs after a treatment. However, if you have a major injury you may need to give the body longer to heal. Rushing back into exercise or manual labour after any treatment may increase the time it takes to recover in the long run. Walking and swimming are generally good activities for you to do between treatments.