Bowen Technique
The Bowen technique is a non-invasive, relaxing yet powerful form of bodywork. It helps to reset the body so it can heal itself and restore its natural healing ability and promote pain relief, recovery of energy and functionality to the body.
With thumbs and fingers, precise rolling type moves are made on specific areas of the body. During treatment there are a series of short breaks where the patient is left to rest as their body responds to the treatment.
These resting periods are essential since they allow the brain time to develop the appropriate response required to make the necessary adjustments and bring correct function throughout the body. Only a few moves are made so as not to over stimulate as the body heals itself; so it is true to say that ‘less is more’.
It is these features which make the Bowen Technique unique.
Bowen Technique is also suitable from new-borns to the elderly, pre and post operative and in palliative care.
The appointment:
After discussing medical and health history and any concerns, the client lies on a therapy table for the treatment. An appointment takes from 45 mins to an hour and the work can be applied through light clothing. Three to five treatments at weekly intervals usually achieves lasting effects, although sometimes fewer or further treatments are required tailoring to the client’s requirements.
What does it treat?
Bowen Technique treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.
Common presentations include:
- Back and neck pain
- Knee problems
- Respiratory problems
- Leg length differences
- Asthma
- Sports injuries
- Infant colic
- Stress and anxiety
- RSI
- Frozen shoulder
- Tennis elbow
- Migraines
- IBS
- Tilted pelvis
- Acute and chronic fatigue
Fertility
In 2001 The Guardian reported that trials in UK, Australia and New Zealand showed remarkable success rates with the Bowen Technique treating infertility. Bowen technique can help both partners gain their optimum physical, emotional and mental condition so that conception can naturally occur.
The health of both partners is important for conception and Bowen helps by releasing tension in the muscles and detoxing and rebalancing the body. Fertility problems are not always physical; the functioning of the body through the autonomic nervous system and the endocrine system (hormones) are influenced by the mind. The Bowen technique induces great relaxation and calming of the mind. This brings great positivity and emotional stability.
Pregnancy
Bowen Technique plays an important and integral role helping mums during pregnancy. It can be received though light clothing, either sitting in a chair or lying on her side.
How Bowen helps:
As the mum’s posture changes through the pregnancy the spine and the pelvis are vulnerable due to stresses from carrying her unborn child. Pregnancy can create problems and also exacerbate existing one.
Conditions that are addressed:
- Morning sickness
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Tender breasts
- Aching legs
- Swollen ankles and hands
- Carpal Tunnel
- Constipation
- Haemorrhoids
Mum, Birth and Baby
Bowen can be received after birth to rebalance the body and help with lactation. Babies gain relief from Colic, reflux, hiccups and unsettled behaviour.
Autism, Aspergers and ADHD
Weekly or fortnightly treatments over the period of a year have been found very beneficial for those with Autism, Aspergers and ADHD. Some children respond more quickly than others. Children – and parents – benefit from maintenance treatments as their health begins to grow.
- Common Benefits noted by Parents
- Quieter, happier children
- Improved concentration
- Improved interaction in play / with pets
- Reduction of obsessive behaviour
- Decrease of anger / frustration
- Improved sleep
- Reduced destructive behaviour of self / property
- Improved use of language
- Increased eye contact
- Improved family life
Asthma
The very gentleness and non-invasive nature of the Bowen technique makes it safe to use with asthma and other respiratory conditions. A great effect that the Bowen Technique has on many is reducing the feeling of tightness in the chest which gives great relief to asthmatics and respiratory suffers.