Using gentle targeted movements, a practitioner using Bowen Therapy affects the below structures to influence the body’s systems:
Fascia
Nerves
Muscles
Tendons
Ligaments
Joints
Almost all structures in the body are enveloped by the Fascia (a thin layer of connective tissue). Through stimulating fascia and nerve receptors, Bowen moves to initiate a series of responses essentially allowing the body to unwind from long-held tension and to revert to its original, balanced state.
Therapeutic wait times between moves allows the nervous system a chance to process the sensory information and make adjustments. Bowen Therapy honours the Innate Intelligence of the body as recognised in all the traditional healing arts. People of all ages respond to Bowen Therapy according to what their bodies need in order to find well-being.
Bowen Therapy is a soft tissue modality not to be confused with massage as it differs in the following ways:
There is no forceful manipulation of muscles
No oil is used
Bowen can be performed on skin or through light, comfortable clothing
The comfort of the client is paramount, therefore, for someone unable to lay down the Bowen session may be completed seated or lying on their side. This also addresses the needs of people with impaired movement, those who may have sensitivity around body image and also allows for specific cultural sensitivities.
How can Bowen Therapy help?
Bowen Therapy is very gentle and is considered appropriate for all ages and stages of life. The increasing stresses of everyday life place pressure on the body and it’s systems, e.g. the immune system or digestive system. It is at these times that Bowen Therapy comes to the fore as the therapy of choice for those wanting to ‘address stress’ and feel more balanced and relaxed.
A person seeking Bowen Therapy may come for just a few sessions for acute conditions or as general maintenance for everyday life.
Bowen Therapy offers assistance towards conditions such as:
• Increasing flexibility and movement as people age
• Support for chronic or acute conditions
• Support through pregnancy, for the newborn and children
• Menstrual/hormonal irregularities
• Sporting injuries,
• Pre and post-surgery
• Respiratory issues
• Migraines
• Back pain & sciatica
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
Bowen Therapy was traditionally used for the relief of musculoskeletal issues including, back, neck and limb problems, along with the general aches and pains of aging.