Bowen technique

The Bowen technique or Bowen therapy is one of the lesser known complementary therapies, even though it has been around since the 1940's.

It was developed by its founder Tom Bowen and is perhaps most easily (and loosely) described as a form of massage. Bowen felt that his therapy had similarities to osteopathy.

What is the Bowen technique

The Bowen technique mixes different therapies, but it is most similar to a gentle massage where very light rolling movements are made over the areas being treated. Some describe these motions as gentle flicks.

The purpose of these movements is to loosen and relax or tighten up muscles, tendons and ligaments. The therapy is applied with short periods of treatment followed by periods of pause, following which more treatment is delivered. These pauses are said to allow time for the treated area to respond to the therapy activity.

Evidence of what the Bowen technique does, how it works and its effectiveness in treatment have yet to be substantiated, however many who experience this treatment claim that it has a benefit.

Those experiencing the Bowen technique often describe the areas that have been treated as feeling warm or having a tingling sensation.

Like many alternative therapies, the Bowen technique is viewed by its practitioners as an holistic treatment and is said to re-balance the body.

Where to find a therapist and what to expect

Most Bowen technique treatments last for around half an hour to 45 minutes and the treatment has a stop-start feel to it as breaks or pauses take place during the session.

A typical treatment program will last for four or five separate sessions where the initial sessions will address the main body areas like the back. Following this the treatment will focus on any identified problem area.

There is a European College of Bowen, however this therapy has no controlling body. The best way to find a suitable therapist is by recommendation, using the Bowen Therapists European Register (UK and Europe) or the Bowen Directory (USA), or by contacting a reputable complementary therapy clinic.