A man has difficulty breathing, with a long history of asthma. He uses natural medicines, and an inhaler in emergencies. After just one Bowen session, he could breathe a lot more deeply into his lungs. In addition, he learned a simple Bowen move to help open up his lungs in the future when he might be going into an asthma attack.
A second man has discomfort, not able to lift his arm higher than his shoulder. He had this condition previously, and even the MRI testing showed nothing unusual. After an evaluation and gentle Bowen treatment of 45 minutes, his discomfort was relieved. One hour later, he had full range of movement in his shoulder. Weeks and months later he still has no more complaints.
Another man was suffering with back spasms, after injuring his back 2 days previously. After an evaluation and a similar Bowen treatment, he is smiling since his pain has been relieved. A week later he returns for a follow-up and reports no more pain, and has other areas of concern treated.
A woman with a long history of an excruciating pain running down her leg, which had been diagnosed as sciatica was desperate for help. She had seen chiropractors and acupuncturists, with only short-term relief. After her first Bowen treatment, which focused on a more basic balancing, she was pain-free for 5 days, a record for her. After two more treatments - no sooner than 5 days apart - she only suffered occasional twinges. She returns for follow-up rebalancing when she has used her body unwisely and the twinges become more like pain.
The work is gentle and noninvasive, and can be performed through clothing. It is completely safe, consisting of gentle rolling movements over muscles. These movements of the bodywork activate a response in the whole body so powerful that a few minutes pause is observed to allow them to be integrated. A pattern of movements and pauses continues throughout the treatment. The body becomes energized as nerve and muscle tissue relax and fascia adhesions dissolve. The body's circulation increases and toxins are released and eliminated. Most conditions are relieved in a minimal number of treatments.
The human body may be compared to an intricate musical instrument that requires adequate tuning for correct function. When a string on a musical instrument is held and played at a particular point, a resonance is established that creates a distinctive tone. Both finding the exact point to hold the string and the way the string is plucked affect the quality of the tone.
In the same way the body responds to the technique of the Bowen therapist.
The study of sound in relation to healing suggests that specific frequencies affect particular parts of the body. It is believed that the Bowen Technique sets up vibrational patterns that correspond to particular areas of the body. The body then attempts to alter its vibration to match these ideal vibrational patterns and in so doing, brings itself into harmony.
This unique system of muscle and connective tissue therapy has amazed therapists of all disciplines. It has been used for more than 40 years to successfully treat thousands of people suffering from a variety of illnesses.
As a unique form of neuromuscular repatterning, it works through the nervous system to affect muscles. The Bowen bodywork is neither derived from nor similar to any other physical modality. Yet, we see results such as misalignments of the bones becoming aligned, muscle tensions relieved, and lymphatic flow restored. Nearly everyone who has had Bowen bodywork reports a pleasant, relaxed state, and a deep sense of well-being and ease..
Mr. Tom Bowen, an Australian, developed the technique after serving in W.W.II and becoming interested in ways of alleviating human suffering. He noticed that when he made certain moves on a body, it had particular effects. He did this without any training in health care, claiming that the work was a gift from God. He opened a clinic and saw an estimated 13,000 patients a year.
Beginning in 1974, Oswald and Elaine Rentsch were invited to study, observe and document his technique for 2? years. Since Tom Bowen's death in 1986, they carry the torch, teaching and certifying teachers around the world.
I began studing Bowen Bodywork in 1997 while still in Naturopathic Medical School. I used it in my clinical training, and have continued to find it to be one of my most effective tools. Through directed movements on the body, I access that Healing Power of Nature so the body is triggered to heal itself. In fact, it has replaced Naturopathic Manipulation and Acupuncture in my practice, since it does the same thing but continues the healing work for days afterwards. I became a Certified Bowen Practitioner and continue to be involved with the Bowen Academy with further understanding the technique and refining my skills.
I once took the opportunity to treat 15 people at a time after a day's physical labor at a retreat center. I look forward to treating you with this unique modality. Please note these treatment guideline when you come for treatment.
On the day of the treatment come in loose comfortable clothing, or bring a change of clothes. T-shirt and loose shorts are ideal. No jeans.
The work done on the table continues over the next week. Some people experience changes immediately, others the next day and still others gradually over days. Call to clarify what you are feeling if you don't understand the nature of the healing process.
A second treatment five to ten days following a first Bowen is recommended to ensure maximum benefit.
In addition, any bodywork such as massage, chiropractic, physical therapy or acupuncture in the week following the treatment may stop the body's response to the Bowen technique, so avoid them then.
Immediately after the treatment, for that day only, plan to:
- take it easy (maybe nap)
- take a short walk
- drink water hourly
- not work out heavily
- not sit in a hot tub or apply hot/cold
- not sit for a prolonged time (break every 30 minutes)
Due to government and FDA regulations the following must be stated: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical opinion. It is provided for informational and educational purposes only.
What is Bowen Bodywork like?