What it is
Bowenwork (also called Bowen Therapy or the Bowen Technique) is a gentle form of bodywork. The practitioner makes a series of precise, light "moves" over muscles and connective tissue, then pauses for a few minutes so the body can respond.
It is sometimes called "the homeopathy of bodywork" because the inputs are so subtle. There is no forceful manipulation. The aim is to calm tension patterns and support the body's own ability to rebalance.
Bowenwork looks at you as a whole person rather than a list of symptoms. Each person responds in their own way, physically, emotionally and mentally.
Who it may help
People often come to Bowenwork looking for support with:
- Back, neck and shoulder tension and stiffness
- Sports, overuse and repetitive-strain discomfort (shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles, hamstrings)
- Recovery support after minor injuries, such as whiplash from a car accident
- Hip, pelvic, sacroiliac and tailbone discomfort, including before and after pregnancy
- Jaw (TMJ) tension
- Tension headaches
- Sciatic discomfort
- Foot discomfort, such as plantar fasciitis
- Menstrual discomfort
- Chronic pain and fibromyalgia, as part of a wider care plan
- Everyday stress and a nervous system that won't switch off
The technique is gentle enough for infants, older adults and people who are pregnant.
Bowenwork is a complementary therapy. It does not diagnose, treat or cure disease and is not a substitute for care from your doctor. If you have a medical condition, keep working with your healthcare provider.
What a session is like
- Getting started. Wear or bring light, loose-fitting clothing. We start with your health history and the reasons for your visit, so I can choose the right Bowen moves for that day.
- On the table. You lie on a bodywork table while I make a series of soothing moves over loose clothing or skin.
- Rest periods. After each set of moves I pause for at least two minutes so your body can respond. This repeats until the session is complete.
- Relax. Most people feel deeply relaxed, and many fall asleep. The hands-on work takes 15 to 75 minutes, depending on what your body needs that day.
How many sessions?
For many sports, work-related and overuse injuries, three to five sessions about a week apart are typical. More complex or long-standing concerns may need more sessions, and some clients choose ongoing maintenance visits.
After your session
Your body keeps responding for five to ten days. Some people notice changes straight away, such as less discomfort, easier movement and a sense of calm. To get the most from your session:
- On the day of your session, avoid sitting for more than 30 minutes at a time.
- Keep the first 24 hours restful.
- Drink extra water.
- Take a gentle walk each day.
- Avoid other bodywork (massage, chiropractic, etc.) for about a week so the Bowen moves can keep working.
Sessions for two
Bowen Therapy can be booked as a couples or two-person session: two people, one appointment. It's a popular gift. Read what clients say.