The Bowen Method

“The Bowen Method is a series of gentle moves performed at specific locations on the muscles of the body. These cross fiber moves allow the fascia of the muscle as well as the muscle fibers to relax, allowing the previously restricted blood flow to return to the tissue. The muscle itself returns to its normal state of tension and pressure is released from the body’s structure. This allows the return of normal structural alignment and releases pressure from the nerves.

This method of bodywork is based on a technique developed by Thomas Ambrose Bowen, an Australian Osteopath. Mr. Bowen realized that when the structure of the body became misaligned, it is the muscles of the body pulling the structure out of alignment. He understood that it is the muscle that moves the bone, not the opposite. Forcing the bones back into place often does little to relieve the tension of the muscle pulling on the bone. By releasing the tension of the muscles, the structure will often return to its normal position by itself or with just a simple movement such as raising the leg while lying face up (supine).

Mr. Bowen also understood that when the structures of the body become misaligned for a period of time, all of the muscles will adapt to that misalignment. This can lead to conditions like uneven leg length, knee, hip and foot problems, scoliosis as well as neck and shoulder problems. He realized that to correct this problem both sides of the body must be rebalanced, not just the side that is painful. By performing these moves on the muscles of both sides allows the body to be rebalanced and healing can take place.

Trauma to the muscle tissue is greatly reduced with the Bowen Method since only minimal movement on the muscle is required. The client will sometimes experience a soreness the following day, but this is due more to the muscles readjusting themselves back to a balanced position.

No oils or lubricants are used with the Bowen Method. Moves are done through the clothing so no disrobing is required. Waiting periods of two to five minutes are always implemented several times during the session to allow the client to relax and blood flow to return to the muscles. This will avoid the problem of the body becoming overwhelmed and feeling invaded.

The client will often experience the relaxation of deep tissue massage. Most clients will feel immediate relief, or relief within a few days following the session. However, long standing problems will often require at least several sessions. Three sessions seven days apart is suggested as it usually takes this period of time to allow the muscles to readjust to a normal state.

The Bowen Method is a unique and effective system of body balancing that can give lasting relief to conditions from back and leg pain to carpal tunnel syndrome and headaches. The results of Thomas Bowen’s work speak clearly as to its effectiveness. The results speak for themselves!”

- Sanders, S. and Jones, C., 2002. (Steve Sanders and Christine Jones Interpretation of The Bowen Method. 1st ed. Fair Oaks: Christine Jones Steve Sanders, p.VI.