Understanding Bowen
Understanding Bowen Technique
What is the Bowen Technique?
A gentle form of body work in which very subtle moves are performed over the muscles and connective tissue send messages deep into the body, retrieving cellular memory of a relaxed, balanced way of well-being.
How does it work?
Bowen moves are light, gentle and very precise. There is no forceful manipulation. The practitioners are able to discern stress build-up in muscles and other soft tissue enabling them to perform specific Bowen moves to assist recovery and aid pain relief.
There are frequent but essential pauses throughout the session that allow the body time to respond and begin the healing process. The practitioner can target a specific problem or address the body as a whole.
A Bowen session initiates a cascade of beneficial changes that continue for several days. Applying other manipulative therapies during this time can interrupt this process and undermine the overall effectiveness of the Bowen work. It is therefore recommended that the client waits a week before commencing any other manual therapy.
Where did the Bowen Technique originate?
The Bowen Technique was developed in the 1950's by the late Thomas Bowen in Geelong, Australia. He became a celebrated therapist, regularly treating over 13,000 patents per year. In 1974, he invited Oswald Rentsch and his wife Elaine to study with him and document his work. However, it was not until 1986, four years after Bowen's death, that they founded the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia in 1987.
Since then over 12,000 practitioners worldwide have taken Bowen training.
Useful contacts
The Bowen Association UK
PO Box 4358, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 3BA
Phone/Fax:0700 269 8324
Email: office@bowen-technique.co.uk
Website: www.bowen-technique.co.uk
The Bowen Association UK is working under the auspices of the Bowen Forum and The Prince's Foundation for Integrated Health, towards creating National Occupational Standards and common regulatory body for the profession, in accordance with guidelines regarding the regulation of all complementary therapies issued by the government.
