The Bowen Technique was developed in the 1950’s by osteopath, Tom Bowen of Australia. In 1974, according to a survey of alternative medicine performed by the Victoria Government, Tom Bowen was found to be treating over 250 patients per week despite no advertising. His success rate was about 88% after only 2 or 3 treatments.
What can Bowen treat?
Bowen treatment is suitable for babies through to elderly and is applicable for a wide range of complaints including but not limited to:
Sports injuries
Back pain, scoliosis, sciatica
Neck and shoulder pain, frozen shoulder
Pelvic misalignment, groin pain
Immune dysfunction; chronic fatigue
Migraines, ear ache, jaw
problems, sinusitis
RSI, carpel tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow
Digestive problems, IBS
Insomnia, anxiety
How does Bowen Work?
To understand how Bowen works we need to know a little about connective tissue (fascia) as this is the vehicle through which Bowen moves can access the underlying muscles and organs. Fascia connects with all systems in the body and this explains its wide reaching effects. Research scientists are now embracing a tensegrity model of the body which recognizes that the opposing forces created by connective tissue are what provide our strength and support our skeleton. Our bones are literally floating within this connective tissue. Connective tissue is like a watery 3D internal web which wraps itself around every muscle fibre and every nerve cell. As well as projecting down into the body, 2D sheets of fascia have been identified and are referred to as fascia lines. Each sheet covers different parts of the body although they may overlap. Within this web-like connective tissue structure, our bones float. If there is tension in any part of our fascia, the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid are compromised and joints can also be put under pressure, resulting in pain. Trauma, unrelieved stress or repetitive motions can cause fascia to become stiff and dehydrated which in turn decreases muscle response and mobility. Remember that if fascia is restricted (tight and dehydrated), then the underlying muscle fibres will also be restricted. The light-pressured rolling moves of Bowen therapy stimulate mechanoreceptors within the fascia which in turn send impulses via the autonomic nervous system to the brain resulting in the body switching into a relaxed state (parasympathetic mode) so that healing can occur. In addition, fascial tension is released, the fascia returns to a flexible, healthy state and muscles are able to function optimally, our bones move into their natural positions relative to each other so that pressure is taken off the joints and pain is relieved. Traditional remedial treatments have focussed only on muscle fibres but Bowen addresses the fascia thereby releasing pain where traditional treatments have failed.
About me
It gives me great pleasure to be able to offer Bowen Therapy through The Bowen Room here in Fendalton, Christchurch. I am a qualified, credited ISBT Bowen Therapist having trained with the International School of Bowen Therapy (ISBT), as approved by the Bowen Therapists Federation of Australia. I have also trained in Postural Assessment under Kelly Clancy, founder and owner of the Seattle Center for Structural Medicine and the Northwest School of Structural Therapy. Utilising a biotensegrity model, postural assessment is aided through myofascial testing and a ligament influenced technique is used for the release of the fascia. My passion for Bowen increases each time I witness yet another happy client who has become pain free, in some cases after many years of enduring pain. I have held a life-long interest in human health and prior to doing Bowen Therapy, worked as a nutritionist in the public health sector having completed post-graduate study in Community Nutrition through University of Otago. My personal interests include Chinese medicine and in particular, chi gong. I practice Tian Chuan chi gong also known as Medical chi gong. I find this an invaluable practice as it is a very easy and natural way to relax the body and mind. For those interested in chi gong, I offer one-on-one classes.
Nutrition consultations
Good nutrition helps form the foundation to a happy and healthy life. Its importance cannot be underestimated. In today’s world we are bombarded with confusing and often contradictory messages about food choices and diets. I can guide you through the maze to enable you to make the best food choices to achieve your goals. I hold a post-graduate qualification in community nutrition through the University of Otago and have worked in the Public Health sector teaching nutrition, cooking skills and weight loss programmes. I also draw upon an in-depth knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Medicine Food Therapy to develop individualised dietary guidelines. I have a particular interest and experience in dealing with digestive problems, fatigue, hormone imbalances and weight loss for better health. I would be delighted to assist you on your path to perfect health.
