Summary
Read the full fact sheet- Bowen is a holistic technique that works on the soft connective tissue (fascia) of the body.
- A Bowen treatment consists of sequences of small moves, each at a specific site on the body. It can be done through light clothing.
- Make sure you use a registered therapist.
On this page
Bowen is an holistic remedial body technique that works on the mechanoreceptors and soft connective tissue (fascia) of the body. Bowen therapy can be used to treat musculoskeletal or related neurological problems including acute sports injuries and chronic or organic conditions. It is gentle and relaxing and does not use forceful manipulation.
Bowen therapy is performed on the superficial and deep fascia. The fascia, or soft tissue, is the part of the connective tissue that envelops, separates and influences every organ and tissue in the body. The gentle moves are performed in precise locations to gain maximal influence of the receptors of the nervous system with minimal inputs.
The Bowen technique is safe to use on anyone, from newborns to the elderly and for any musculoskeletal or related neuromuscular complaint. It is a holistic treatment that treats the whole person and aims to treat the cause of problems, rather than the symptoms.
Choosing a Bowen therapist
It is best to choose a registered therapist. The Bowen Association of Australia (BAA) only registers members with a nationally accredited qualification. Both the BAA and Bowen Therapists Federation Australasia (BTFA), require current first aid, professional indemnity and public liability insurance, and also have robust continuing education policies to ensure that therapists’ skills are strong and up to date with the latest developments in bodywork.
Bowen procedure
A Bowen treatment consists of sequences of small moves at varying pressures, each at a specific site on the body. The treatment is pleasant – therapists use light, cross-fibre manoeuvres of muscle, tendon or ligament with no forceful manipulation.
A treatment will typically last between 30 minutes and one hour. It can be provided through a layer of light clothing, although you may be asked to remove heavy or thick garments. During this time, the therapist may leave the room for periods of two to five minutes at a time. This allows time for your body to respond to the treatment and for the necessary changes to occur in your body before commencing the next sequence of moves.
What you can expect
Bowen is not necessarily an ongoing therapy. The person may experience relief after just the first session and significant resolution or recovery within three sessions. However, chronic or long-standing conditions or repeat injury may require additional treatments and if symptoms do not resolve, you should see your doctor. Many people with long term chronic conditions such as Parkinson's Disease find benefits from attending regular Bowen treatments as part of their continuing treatment plan.
Advice after Bowen therapy
Your therapist may advise you not to have any other physical therapy or other forms of manipulation – such as massage, chiropractic, physiotherapy, acupuncture or kinesiology – for one week after the treatment, while your body adjusts to the treatment. Fascia responds very differently when well-hydrated, so it is important to drink enough water. To aid the body in recovery, it is recommended to engage in light movement and avoid sitting for long periods.
Where to get help
- What is Bowen therapy? Bowen Therapists Federation of Australia.
- Understanding Bowen, The Bowen Association UK.
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
