"The Bowen technique is one of the newest and most exciting forms of therapeutic body work. Making its public appearance in Australia in the mid 1980s, the popularity and spread of Bowen technique has been truly remarkable. Today, the technique is practised in over thirty countries around the world. The technique derives its name from Thomas Bowen (1916-1982), a humble, self-trained remedial therapist who called himself an osteopath."[1]
Osteopathy is based on four principles:
- The human body functions as an integrated, interrelated, whole unit.
- Structure and function share a reciprocal relationship.
- The human body has an innate capacity for self-regulation and healing.
- Therapeutic intervention is based upon an understanding of the above three points.
"The Bowen Technique involves very gentle but direct manipulation of the following structures in the body:
- Muscles
- Tendons
- Fascia
- Ligaments
- Joints
- Nerves
During a Bowen treatment, a stretch on the muscle is maintained for several seconds before the move itself is made. As this stretch is initiated, sensory information is sent via nerves to the spinal cord and then to various areas of the brain. What seems to be happening during a Bowen session is that the body is allowed to re-orient to a memory of a previously healthy state. Because Bowen moves are made at key structural points in the body that the brain uses as natural reference points to determine its posture, moves at these precise points have a huge effect on the way that the body holds itself.
There are many explanations as to how the technique works. It is clear that some of the points worked on relate to acupuncture meridians and trigger points. Therapists also often notice a response through their hands as they work, as though an electrical impulse is created as a result of the move. Tom Bowen used to describe how he used the information from these subtle impulses to read responses in the body as he was working. "[2]
Bowen Therapy is holistic in nature, working on the whole body, rather than being a treatment for a specific condition.
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. In contrast to many other hands-on therapies, Bowen does not attempt to force the body to change; rather it allows the body to make the necessary changes to bring it back to homoeostasis (physiological equilibrium).
Bowen Therapy is suitable for all ages and can be useful in cases of emotional stress, 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.
The BTPA have been collecting evidence of the benefits of Bowen Therapy, including patient testimonials and case studies, and research studies.
Bowen Therapy can be used on adults of all ages, for a variety of symptoms. Read the many testimonials we have received from clients who have benefitted from Bowen Therapy sessions. If you need help yourself, please use our 'Find a Therapist' service.
Bowen Therapy has been found especially useful for children with a range of symptoms, and many BTPA therapists have set up dedicated Children's Clinics. Testimonials from parents of such children are included on the testimonials page.
Bowen Technique is also offered in workplaces around the country, as a means of addressing workplace injuries and helping employees get back to work quicker. Read more on the Corporate Bowen page.
Tom Bowen used his techniques on animals and there are now Equine and Canine Bowen Therapy courses available. Practitioners who have studied Animal Bowen training can provide a professional treatment for your animals, with the cooperation of your vet.
Using your Health Insurance
If you have a health cash plan with Health Shield, you should be able to claim back the costs of your Bowen Therapy treatment.
If you have another health insurance scheme, you could ask them to include Bowen Therapy in your policy. They may require your Bowen therapist to be registered with the CNHC.
REFERENCES:
[1] "A Textbook of Bowen Technique" by Graham Pennington, Barker Deane Publishing, 2012
[2] "The Bowen Technique" by John Wilks, CYMA Ltd, 2007