BOWEN THERAPY Laura Nelson 4/4/2012 AHS 230 Complementary and Alternative Health Therapies Marie Hardman, Instructor “Less is More”

What is Bowen Therapy? Originated by Tom Bowen from Australia in the 1950’s, it is a system of subtle and precise mobilizations over muscles, tendons, nerves and fascia. The moves are performed using the thumbs and fingers applying only gentle non invasive pressure. A treatment consists of a series of specific sequences of moves with frequent pauses to allow time for the body to respond.

How does Bowen Therapy Work? How does it work? The therapist uses fingers and thumbs to gently move over muscles, ligament and tendons on specific points to send a message to the nervous system reminding the body to regain its normal balance. There is no massaging or prolonged pressure or deep tissue work done, only gentle relaxing moves. What is involved in the treatment? During the session the client will lie down or sit in a chair if more comfortable. Most of the work can be done through light clothing. A feature of the work is that between sets of moves the therapist will leave the room for a few minutes to allow the body reset and realign.

How Does Bowen Therapy Work? (Continued) “Bowen Moves” and procedures may reset the body to heal itself by activating, through the nervous and endocrine systems among others, the following mechanisms: Autonomic nervous system rebalancing Stretch reflex Joint proprioceptors Fascia Segmental viscerosomatic spinal reflexes Harmonic vibration or resonance model Lymphatics Detoxification

Why do I choose Bowen Therapy as a positive CAM option? Bowen therapy is safe and appropriate for many as an alternative/complimentary health option; from newborns to the frail elderly, as well as highly trained athletes and even pregnant women. * The therapy can be performed with clothing on, allowing for patient privacy issues. This therapy is non invasive, gentle and relaxing. Each session is completed in a relatively short time period. Most patients report immediate pain relief. I personally have had very positive results with Bowen Therapy for the following conditions:  Arthritis  Bronchitis/Sinusitis  Detoxification after surgery/anesthesia  Gait Issues  Hip Dysplasia  Insomnia  Knee and Ankle Pain  Neck and Back Pain  Sciatica  Traumatic injuries to face and body *

My Bowen Therapy Experiences I chose Bowen Therapy, a holistic and alternative therapy, due to my own positive results, and decided to use this opportunity to further my education regarding this subject. Prior to my own experience with Bowen therapy I knew of several people, experienced in alternative and holistic therapies, who have had similar relief of pain and other symptoms. In one instance, I had Bowen Therapy for extreme sciatica, requiring assistance to be placed the massage table prior to treatment. Immediately after the session, I had relief, required no assistance to leave the table, and was able to continue pain free for several weeks without using ibuprofen.

Conclusion There are no conclusive studies by either the AMA or NCCAM supporting the results and testimonies listed within the Bowen communities. However, as with other CAM therapies, treatment with certified and trained Bowen therapists is not harmful, certainly provides a gentle and relaxing experience, and based on the numerous testimonials on the internet and within the authentic Bowenwork sites, can provide effective and long lasting pain relief.

References Bowen Therapy Technique by Patrik Rousselot Bowen Healing The Bowen Therapy Specialist Bowtech/Bowenwork Bowtech/Bowenwork Suzanne Gregorius, RN – Essentials of Life Wellness Center, 3100 N Navajo Dr, Suite A2, Prescott Valley, AZ, Phone: – Bowenwork Therapy Presentation by Alexia Monroe - Part 1