More and more the question is being asked. What is Bowen and how does it work? Bowen Therapy was named after its inventor Tom Bowen who developed the technique in the 1950’s and 1960’s and treated some 13,000 people a year by 1975. Bowen Therapy resets the body to heal its self, the Bowen moves are gentle and extremely effective, gentle rolls are made across tendons or muscles working on the fascia. It can be done through light clothing but is easier to work directly onto the skin. Bowen is not massage or manipulation, it is a highly effective modality for a range of conditions, treating young babies to the elderly.
Bowen Benefits
Bowen treatment affects the body in many complex ways. It promotes healing naturally, provides pain and stress relief with the recovery of energy. The experience of the treatment is typically relaxing, gentle, and so subtle. These features make Bowen Therapy so popular and unique.
What is Bowen and how does it work
Bowen Therapy allows and encourages the body to reset and heal itself naturally. Treatment consists of a series of rolling moves over muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves using a varying touch. There are often pauses between the moves that allow the body time to benefit from each set. Through the combination of moves, both in placement and in sequence the Toni can address the body holistically or target certain areas.
Bowen stimulates energy flows, resulting in a deep relaxation. Restoration commences when the body is relaxed and will continue as the body increasingly returns to homeostasis. Your healing Bowen session initiates many changes that may unfold over a few days.
Aftercare will include any transitory reactions; recommendations for follow up treatments with the emphasis placed on the importance of natural movement, particularly walking, drinking water.
Post-treatment care is essential as Bowen promotes tissue hydration it is important clients do not dehydrate and drink enough water to meet the changing body demands. Avoiding dehydration through improved foods and lifestyle is important.
Some reactions you could experience are lethargy or flu-like symptoms such as stiffness and headaches. Some may experience emotional changes or dream activity. These should not be seen negatively or the reason to cease treatment. They show the treatment has successfully initiated the change processes in seeking to restore balance and indicate further treatments are required.
Reactions after treatment vary with clients reporting a sudden increase in energy levels or even sleepiness.
Avoid hot baths and showers
Avoid lifting heavy objects
Avoid strenuous exercise programs
Drink sufficient water
A light program of walking or swimming is beneficial.
Other manipulative sessions after a Bowen treatment can undermine the effectiveness of the Bowen work. Please wait a week before other bodywork is commenced.