The benefits of Bowen therapy

There are so many types of therapies available, we know it can be difficult to know which one could help you. This is why we’re passionate about giving you as much information as possible to help you explore the right therapy for you.

Today, we’re speaking to therapist Catherine Wells about Bowen therapy and how this holistic treatment can benefit you.

Can you tell us exactly what Bowen therapy is?

Named after Australian, Thomas Ambrose Bowen (1916 – 1982) who devised the technique, Bowen therapy is a very gentle musculoskeletal remedial treatment that treats the whole body in a holistic way. Although during treatment it can appear to be a very gentle process it can trigger powerful changes in the body afterwards.

Working with the soft connective tissue (fascial layer) of the body, the effects can be felt throughout. Whilst the actual tissue beneath is directly affected, messages are also sent to the brain via the central nervous system so the treatment is working on more than one level. As a therapy it is quite unique and unlike any other treatment.

What are the benefits of Bowen therapy?

The benefits are very varied, although Bowen seems to be recognised by many as an effective therapy for back problems, often chronic that have not responded to other treatments. Some will continue to have regular maintenance sessions after the initial problem has been resolved, so this could be considered as a maintenance of overall good health and well-being.

Bowen therapy will often be sought out by people looking for resolution of a musculoskeletal condition that is affecting their quality of life in some way. A lesser known application, is for breathing issues which can respond extremely well to the therapy as moves are made directly over the diaphragm.

What should clients expect in a standard session?

A detailed consultation will gather information about the person including general health and fitness, medications being taken, and what they are seeking as an outcome of the therapy. A glass of water will be offered. Light clothing can be worn throughout the therapy and generally lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.

The client will be asked to lie on their front on the treatment couch initially, and the therapist will start making small rolling type movements over specific points of the body. These will be interspersed by two minute breaks where the therapist will either leave the room or sit quietly, whilst the body accepts the moves that have been made.

The client turns over and the therapist continues. A drink of water will be offered again at the end and the client may be asked to walk around a little. Sometimes unusual sensations may be felt. Any after effects and care will then be discussed and any future appointments arranged.