Introducing the Bowen Technique 1 The Bowen Technique

Introducing the Bowen Technique 1 The Bowen Technique is one of the most versatile and effective therapeutic treatments available today. This technique uses the fascia and soft tissue to relax and re-align the body, restoring homeostasis (balance). This 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 being.

What can the Bowen Technique treat? 2 Its ability to re-align and balance the body means it is effective for many conditions. Some examples of what Bowen can be considered for include: Ø Ø Ø Ø musculoskeletal aches and pains respiratory problems digestive, bowel and urinary disorders gynaecological conditions migraines, ear/sinus problems, dizziness autoimmune disease emotional trauma

Musculoskeletal Aches and Pains 3 Muscle fatigue may be caused by poor circulation or sustained contraction of a muscle over a period of time. By relaxing to their natural length there is increased blood supply and oxygen to the muscle fibres and removal of lactic acid and waste products, so relieving pain in muscles and joints. Moving the fascia (connective tissue) over muscles, tendons and ligaments assists accelerated healing, improved mobility & posture, so providing pain relief. Neck, back and shoulder pain or immobility Knee and ankle injuries Sports and accident injuries Tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, RSI Uneven leg length Pelvic imbalance Sciatica Poor mobility, stroke victims

Respiratory Problems 4 Moves performed around the diaphragm area are relaxing and calming, easing restrictions which may be impeding the lungs. This can be particularly effective for asthma. Asthma Hay fever Reflux Shallow or irregular breathing Allergies Digestive Problems

Digestive, Bowel & Urinary Disorders 5 Ill health can start in the gut. Tension or torsion within the stomach and intestines impedes the digestive process. Releasing this area improves movement through the digestive tract, absorption of nutrients, excretion of waste products, strengthening the immune system, improving metabolism and energy levels. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Constipation/Diarrhoea Bowel problems Stomach pains and digestive upsets Hernia Heartburn Bedwetting, incontinence

Gynaecological Issues 6 A body which is not balanced physically or hormonally may protect itself by inhibiting conception. A difficult birth or fast delivery can have consequences for the mother and baby. By improving posture and alignment Bowen helps increase the body’s ability to carry a baby. Releasing stress improves emotional health. Relaxing tension is beneficial for colic in babies Menopausal symptoms Menstrual problems Hormonal imbalances Fertility Promoting wellbeing in pregnancy and optimal birth position Rebalancing hormones after birth

Headaches and Related Conditions 7 Too much tension anywhere in the musculature can cause headaches. Impacts to the body from accidents can travel through the body and cause symptoms elsewhere. The signals from Bowen moves also travel through the body and can address the cause of these symptoms. Migraines and headaches TMJ imbalances, clicking jaw, ear popping Earache and blockages Sinus problems Vertigo Dizziness Tension and anxiety

Autoimmune Diseases 8 Bowen works on the immune system and all the systems in the body which rely on each other to function properly. If one system does not function properly it will affect the others. Bowen is gentle and truly holistic, treating the body as a whole. It can get to the core of the problem and help many underlying conditions. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome ME Rheumatoid Arthritis Parkinson’s Alzheimer's MS Crohn’s Disease Fibromyalgia

Emotional Trauma 9 The sympathetic nervous system can go into high alert as a result of trauma. Bowen aids the parasympathetic nervous system, helping with relaxation, emotional release and coping abilities. Recurring injuries and health problems Addictions Sleeplessness Stress, anxiousness and worry Un-controllable fears and inability to cope Unable to feel peaceful, calm or have clarity of mind

The Origins of the Bowen Technique 10 The technique was developed in Australia by Thomas Bowen (1916 to 1982). He intuitively began working with this gentle technique discovering that certain moves on the body helped recovery from many conditions. As well as his general clinics he held special clinics for disabled children, injured footballers and he also worked with the police force and prison service

Taking the Technique to the World 11 Ossie and Elaine Rentsch have taught the Bowen Technique to others since the death of Tom Bowen, and developed the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia. From one town in Australia this incredible technique is now taught in over 33 countries with thousands of practitioners worldwide.

What does a treatment consist of? 12 A treatment consists of a series of gentle moves on skin or through light clothing, with the client usually lying on a bed or treatment couch, although it is possible to be treated seated. A session lasts up to an hour and frequently results in a deep sense of relaxation, allowing the body to recharge and balance itself. Everyone’s experience of the Bowen Technique is different, but these are some of the most common sensations during a treatment: Ø Ø drowsiness (a very pleasant sort!) a deep sense of calm surges of warmth, cold or energy (often felt as tingling) light headedness can result immediately after a session therefore it is best to sit for a few minutes before getting off the treatment couch

How does it work? 13 Practitioners will treat your body as a whole but can target a specific problem, as they are able to pinpoint stress buildup in muscle groups and then release it. The Bowen Technique both balances and stimulates – this restorative process begins once your body is relaxed. The moves produce results by penetrating to a deep cellular level – making use of your body’s own ability to heal itself. Moves begin to achieve holistic balance straight away, embracing all physical and emotional aspects

Who is it suitable for? 14 Bowen treatment is suitable for everyone, here are some examples: Ø babies and toddlers Ø pregnant women Ø the elderly Ø the very sick or those feeling fragile Ø disabled people Ø people dealing with car or accident injuries, sports injuries, or injuries caused by repetitive movement Ø those just feeling out of balance, stiff, under par Bowen is all encompassing and very gentle so no resistance occurs from the body and little or no discomfort is caused during a treatment

What can I expect? 15 Results can be remarkable, even from the first couple of sessions. Most people find that a small number of treatments are effective, even for long standing complaints, but some conditions will require ongoing treatment. Clients often report improvement in seemingly unrelated problems or those they may have forgotten to mention.

How to find a suitable Practitioner 16 The website of the Bowen Association UK is: www. bowen-technique. co. uk All practitioners on this website meet high minimum standards and many are very experienced, have been practising for years and have a wealth of knowledge. All practitioners are willing to discuss your health issues and requirements, and offer advice and appropriate treatment, so get in touch and find someone in your area.

Bowen Association UK Practitioners 17 All Practitioners registered with the Bowen Association UK have completed their Bowen Technique qualification as well as Anatomy and Physiology. All Bowen Association Practitioners in the UK must have Insurance, First Aid and complete annual CPD training requirements.

Every Body is Better with Bowen 18