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The Bowen Technique
Anne Harauz, Professional Bowenwork Practitioner
Introduction
In 2008, I was introduced to a hands-on modality called “Bowtech” or “Bowen Therapy”. It helped my neck pain which nothing else had touched. It helped my dog’s knees when recovering from surgery. I heard many wonderful things about this relaxing, simple method.
After months of training, I am pleased to introduce this modality into my practise. It blends easily with my current practise and provides a simple way to provide pain relief to my clients.
A gentle move over facia reduces inflammation and pain.
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What is the Bowen technique?
Bowen is gentle, relaxing body work. Small rolling motions over specific muscles and connective tissues stimulate the body to go into a relaxed state and heal itself. Specific points on the body are treated and the client has “resting times” to integrate the moves into the nervous system. Bowen treats the whole body by restoring balance to the nervous system.
Bowen was developed by Tom Bowen in the 1950s in Australia. In the 1970s, he taught his technique to Ossie and Elaine Rentsch, who in turn have instructors worldwide. |
How is a session given?
Clients usually lie on a massage table or may be seated in a chair for the treatment. The moves can be done through light clothing. A typical session lasts 20 – 60 minutes with pauses given for the client to relax, the nervous system to adjust and the body to heal itself.
What do clients experience?
Generally, clients experience relaxation during the session. Occasionally, there may be sensations of pain, heat, cold. Since many of the points correspond to acupuncture points and meridians, some people experience energy shifts.
After the session –
It is recommended that clients drink water and walk (gentle exercise) in order to release any toxins and to assist the body in adjusting. Some clients experience discomfort for a short time after a session. Your practitioner will assist with any issues which arise. She may also recommend exercises.
What can you use Bowen for?
 The Bowen technique is beneficial for many situations. It is safe for all ages.
Some conditions are
- back pain and sciatica
- digestive and bowel problems
- earache and TMJ problems
- migraines and other headaches
- fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome
- hip, knee, ankle and foot problems
- menstrual and hormonal irregularities
- neck and shoulder problems (including “frozen shoulder”)
- groin pain, pelvic tilt and uneven leg length
- respiratory problems and hay fever
- RSI, carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow
- sports and other traumatic injuries
How does Bowen work?
- The Bowen moves help the autonomic nervous system switch into parasympathetic mode and it is in this mode that the body can heal itself.
- Many moves are done at the origin of the muscles. Receptors in these spots are stimulated and the pain loop is changed.
- Moves done around the joints affect the receptors and assist the joint to move back into position without forceful manipulation (which can further aggravate an injury)
- Bowen moves are done at the level of the fascia and help the relationship between the fascia, nerves, muscles or tendons
- Many Bowen moves correspond with meridians and acupressure points. It can work deeply on internal organs, emotions and thought patterns
- Some Bowen moves specifically encourage detoxification and stimulating the immune system.
How Many Sessions?
The number of sessions recommended will vary from case to case. Two to three sessions given one to two weeks apart is usually the starting point. Once there is relief from a symptom, the client is encouraged to “do nothing”. “Less is more” in Bowen. Once the body heals itself, it is wise to wait and see what will happen. Clients may have complete relief after one or two treatments.
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