What is Bowen Technique?
Developed by Thomas Ambrose Bowen of Australia in the 1960s and 1970s, this hands-on, light-touch body therapy consists of series of gentle subtle moves on muscle and connective tissue using the thumb and forefingers. Originally intended to help people suffering from muscular-skeletal problems, Bowen Technique has also been successful with many other conditions, including asthma and respiratory ailments in children and pre-teens.
It is renowned for its simplicity and the fact that it encourages the body to heal itself rather than a great deal being done during the treatment.
What is it and how does it work?
The technique involves specific moves across tendons and muscles with thumbs and fingers using a firm but delicate pressure. These moves create a rolling motion, which disturbs the muscle, creating energy surges. These surges are concentrated in three areas of the body, using 'blockers' or 'stoppers' which are released when the patient stands up after treatment.
The series of gentle moves used by the practitioner are said to balance and stimulate energy flows in the body. When a deep sense of relaxation has been achieved, the body is able to begin its own healing. Healing seems to occur by affecting the body's nervous system, which creates homeostasis (balance) at the cellular level. Once homeostasis is achieved, the body is free to function at its optimum level.
What happens during a treatment or session?
Treatments normally last about one hour and consist of a series of gently rolling connective tissue moves. Each move aims to address the entire system producing maximum results with minimal intervention. There are frequent pauses between movements, during which the practitioner leaves the room, to allow the body time to respond and benefit. The treatment is usually carried out with the client fully clothed, and no oils are used.
What are the benefits?
As well as initiating a deep state of relaxation that encourages the body to heal itself, the Bowen technique is also extremely effective for pain. It is used as a remedial therapy for numerous ailments including sports injuries, skeletal and muscular problems, allergies, respiratory problems, digestive problems, RSI, teeth grinding, headaches and sciatica.
It seems to improve rehabilitation time, regardless of how old or recent the injury may be. Other diseases that have shown improvement from using the Bowen technique are multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy.
Recent studies have shown the Bowen technique to have general beneficial effects of deep levels of relaxation on our immune and hormonal systems.
Who is it not good for and what can the side effects be?
The Bowen technique is suitable for most people. It is meant to enhance and complement other medical treatment, and works well in conjunction with homeopathy, herbal medicine and flower essences.