How does Bowen therapy work?
Bowen therapy uses a series of gentle, rolling movements over specific muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. These movements are applied using the therapist's fingers and thumbs, with the amount of pressure adjusted to suit the individual.
One of the distinctive features of Bowen therapy is the use of short breaks between sets of movements. During these pauses, the therapist may step away or leave the room for a few minutes, allowing you to rest before the next sequence.
Practitioners believe that these gentle movements stimulate sensory receptors in the body, sending signals through the nervous system to the brain. The theory is that this may influence how the body responds to tension and discomfort, potentially encouraging relaxation.
The pauses between movements are also considered an important part of the technique. According to Bowen practitioners, they give the body time to respond to the movements before further treatment is applied.
While these theories help explain the principles behind Bowen therapy, the precise mechanisms have not been scientifically established, and more research is needed to understand how effective the technique may be.
In this video, Bowen therapist Judith Kilgallon explains more about the Bowen technique, including what it can treat and the importance of finding a professional.
The guiding principles established by Tom Bowen
Developed in the 1950s by Tom Bowen, the technique takes a holistic approach, focusing on the person rather than a particular symptom or condition.
The movements
The movements used in Bowen therapy are very distinctive and are used on precise points on the body. It involves moving the soft tissue in a particular way. It’s a rolling type of movement using the fingers, hands or elbows, depending on the area being worked on. The movement uses the slack of the skin to move the tissue underneath. Each movement will only cover a small area, depending on how far your skin can move.
Stoppers
Tom Bowen identified certain areas of the body as reference points for specific movements. He referred to some of these movements as 'blockers' or 'stoppers', particularly those performed around the spine. These form part of the traditional Bowen technique and are used to guide the therapist's approach.
Breaks
As part of his approach, Tom Bowen would pause between sets of movements, sometimes leaving the room for a few minutes before returning to assess how the client had responded. These breaks remain a distinctive feature of Bowen therapy today.
What to expect from Bowen therapy
The first step when considering Bowen treatment is to book an initial consultation. This will allow the therapist to learn more about your medical history and the problems you want to treat. This will then enable them to assess your situation and form a personalised treatment plan.
As for what to wear, Bowen can be applied to bare skin or through loose, light clothing. If you or your therapist has specific requirements, you can discuss them in the initial consultation.
Your therapist may recommend drinking water before or after your session.
During the session, you will usually lie on a therapy bed or table. The therapist will apply subtle, relaxing rolling moves across particular muscle groups, tendons and ligaments. A feature of Bowen is that between sets of movements, the therapist will leave the room or quietly sit down and allow you to rest.
Once treatment is complete, you will usually be asked to drink more water before being advised of possible physical and emotional changes you may experience. Follow-up consultations will include a progress review and possible reassessment if you need further sessions.
How many sessions will I need?
Session length will differ depending on individual circumstances, but typically you can expect a session to last between 45 minutes and an hour.
The number of sessions recommended will depend on your individual circumstances and what you're hoping to get from Bowen therapy. Your therapist may suggest an initial course of sessions before reviewing how you're finding the treatment.
If you're considering Bowen therapy alongside other complementary treatments, discuss this with your practitioners so they understand the different approaches you're using.
While there is no established evidence that other complementary therapies interfere with Bowen therapy, practitioners may advise using Bowen therapy as a sole complementary approach. Consider your individual circumstances here and seek medical advice if you have an existing health condition. Bowen therapy should not replace prescribed treatment.
Are there any side effects?
Research into the safety of Bowen therapy is limited, so it's not yet clear what side effects it may cause or how common they might be. Some people report discomfort or changes in how they feel following a session, although it's not always possible to determine whether these are related to the treatment.
If you experience any symptoms following Bowen therapy, discuss them with your therapist. If symptoms are severe, persistent or concerning, seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional.
What is Bowen therapy used for?
People may seek Bowen therapy for a range of reasons, including muscle tension, back discomfort, stress and relaxation. Some practitioners suggest that Bowen therapy may help with other physical and emotional concerns. However, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for specific health conditions is limited, and further research is needed.
Bowen therapy should be considered a complementary approach rather than a replacement for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have an ongoing health condition or unexplained symptoms, speak to an appropriate healthcare professional.
What training and qualifications should therapists have?
Bowen therapy is not a statutorily regulated profession in the UK, so it's worth checking a practitioner's training, qualifications and insurance before booking. Some Bowen therapists choose to join professional associations, which may have requirements around training, professional standards and codes of conduct.
Bowen therapists listed on Therapy Directory have provided evidence of relevant training and insurance, or membership of a professional body. You can find out more about how we verify members on our proof policy page.
Frequently asked questions about Bowen therapy
Can I use Bowen therapy alongside other alternative treatments?
If you're considering Bowen therapy alongside other complementary treatments, discuss this with your practitioners so they understand the different approaches you're using.
There is no established evidence that other therapies interfere with Bowen therapy. However, consider your individual circumstances and seek medical advice if you have an existing health condition. Bowen therapy should not replace prescribed treatment.
How do you perform Bowen therapy?
A trained, experienced Bowen therapist typically performs Bowen therapy. You can apply it directly to bare skin or through light, loose-fitting clothing; discuss your preference before beginning your sessions.
Typically, you will lie on a table or therapy bed while your therapist applies subtle, relaxing rolling movements. Between sets of movements, you can rest while your therapist waits for your body to respond.
What does Bowen therapy feel like?
Exact sensations can vary from person to person. Some people report tingling sensations, minor aches or pains, and pressure, or even the sensation of hot or cold.
How long does Bowen therapy take?
A Bowen therapy session typically lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. The number of sessions you choose to have will depend on your individual needs and preferences, which you can discuss with your therapist.
Find a Bowen therapist
If you're considering Bowen therapy, finding a practitioner you feel comfortable with is a good place to start. You can find a Bowen therapist on Therapy Directory and explore their profiles to learn more about their experience and approach.
