The Bowen Technique


Bowen is a drug-free, non-invasive, hands-on complementary therapy.
Bowen has a remarkable record of success with clients affected by an astonishingly wide range of conditions… often when nothing else has helped
Bowen is gaining in popularity and recognition due to its simplicity, efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
 
What is The Bowen Technique?
The Bowen Technique is perhaps one of the single most important tools we have to help heal the body.
The Bowen technique is a highly effective yet gentle soft tissue remedial therapy, named after its innovator Tom Bowen. The work is very subtle, relaxing and gentle involving no hard or prolonged pressure.
The technique involves the therapist using fingers or thumbs to perform light movements over muscle, ligament tendon and fascia in various parts of the body. There is no massage, no manipulation of hard tissue and no high velocity adjustments.
Most of the work can be performed through light clothing, although some therapists prefer to work on skin. The ultimate choice is that of the client's however.
By releasing stress at a very deep level, via its calming effect on the Autonomic Nervous System, Bowen sets the scene for the body to heal itself. The moves produce good results by penetrating to a deep cellular level – making use of the body’s own ability to heal itself. Moves begin to achieve holistic balance straight away, embracing the client’s physical and emotional aspects. In contrast to many other hands-on therapies, Bowen does not attempt to force the body to change; rather it asks the body to recognise and make the changes necessary to bring it back to homoeostasis (physiological equilibrium).


What can it help?
This remarkable technique can be quick and effective  - Despite its light approach Bowen is very potent and can help with a wide range of conditions.

  • Muscular and skeletal problems in neck, shoulder, hip, knees, ankle and back, including sciatica, Whiplash arthritic pain, fibromyalgia.....
  • Frozen shoulder, tennis and golf elbow, R.S.I. and carpal tunnel
  • Problems with posture and body alignmentMigraine and recurring headaches, neuralgia
  • Bell's Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease and the difficulties suffered by stroke victims
  • Respiratory problems including asthma, bronchitis, hay fever
  • Sports injuries – treatment and prevention.
  • Work-related injuries
  • Digestive conditions such as kidney problems, constipation, colic, IBS, indigestion, diverticulitis, colitis and Crohn's Disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Arthritis
  • Hormonal, & Gynaecological conditions,  pregnancy and fertility problems, infertility (male and female), PMS, breast lumps , menopause
  • Stress management, ME, fatigue and sleep problems.
  • General relaxation and body balancing
  • Bowen may help during pre- and post-operative periods
  • Children and even small babies respond especially well to Bowen treatment and it is also ideal to keep the body comfortable and balanced during pregnancy

Bowen can be of assistance in many cases of emotional stress, mental illness and addiction, where relaxation is a prime factor in easing pain and anxiety.
It is also often a great help in improving the quality of life for those who are terminally ill.


What happens in a treatment?
The first treatment usually lasts about  1 - ½ hrs. A consultation is taken for the clients medical history and details of the presenting problems. Subsequent treatments usually last about 1 hour.
Treatment can be carried out through light clothing such as tee shirts and leggings, although the treatment may be more effective on skin, so you may be asked to undress down to your underwear. However, it is the patient’s choice so this is not essential.
Normally you will be asked to lie on a treatment couch, and will be covered in towels or blankets.  However treatments can be adapted to suit - for example sitting - if you are unable to lie comfortably.
Although each session will vary according to the skill and experience of the therapist, as well as the presenting problems of the client, an initial treatment will address the whole body. Light moves will be made at specific points on your back and legs, before asking you to turn over to lie on your back. Moves will then usually be made on your legs and neck.
A feature of the work is that between sets of moves the therapist will leave the room and allow the client to rest. This is a key element of Bowen and is a defining aspect of the technique as well as being one of the most important. The break allows the body the opportunity to create a decision about what action needs to be taken in response to the moves given.


How many treatments will I need?
Most people will have responses within two to five sessions, when even long standing chronic pain can be relieved. Other conditions might need to be treated more often. In recent back pain project over 90% of people had complete or major improvement after just 3 treatments. There are always going to be exceptions to any rule, and certain people will need further or even on-going treatments.
Some people have regular treatments as health maintenance. It is recommended that clients return for regular treatments every six to eight weeks to maintain optimum health


Who can Bowen treat?
Bowen is suitable for people of all ages - from babies to the elderly.
What clients say about Bowen Technique with Jeanie Blackall:
"I had pain in knees for several years, which prevented me running, riding a bike. Would get sudden sharp stabbing pains on stairs.  Delighted with outcome of treatment. Jeanie Blackall is very professional and caring. I enjoyed the sessions, found them very relaxing." Dr S.Age 55
“I have suffered from a bad back for 8 years. Bowen has made a huge difference. Despite being totally non invasive, it seems to reboot my entire body. It is quite miraculous, and extremely relaxing.” Pam W. Age 65
“I had a swollen disc which compressed on my nerves and muscles at bottom of back. I was on lots of painkillers in so much pain it was unbearable for over 1 year. I was bent right over I could not even get dressed or walk unaided. After 3 Bowen treatments I was upright and able to walk unaided and could play with my 3 children and could drive again. I stopped taking painkillers  - it was amazing.I didn’t know Bowen existed but I’m so grateful that I found out about it. I’ve got my life back thanks to Bowen treatment and of course to Jeanie for doing the treatment.” Nicola Gregory,  age 29


How can I find out more?
http://www.holisticbodyworks.co.uk
http://www.thebowentechnique.com/
http://www.bowentherapists.com/

 

CONTACT: Jeanie Blackall BSc, Cert ECBs, MBTER, FICHT
Rose  & Crown Clinic 01769 572608
Mobile: 0753 123 7299
Email: jeanie@holisticbodyworks.co.uk

Note: Bowen is referred to as ‘complementary’ – meaning it will enhance and complement other medical treatments. However, it should be noted that receiving other manipulative therapies immediately following a Bowen session can undermine the effectiveness of the Bowen work. It is better to wait a week before starting any other treatments