Understanding Bowen Therapy
Any time someone is introducing a new technique there
is always the temptation to compare it to other, perhaps
already known, techniques. This is understandable as
the comparison gives us some tangible element to visualize
as we try to grasp the specifics of the new approach.
Such comparisons can be helpful is giving a general
idea of what’s involved with the new technique.
However, if we want to properly understand the new
technique, it is essential to distinguish it from its
probable comparisons. This is important not only so
that we have a clearer idea of what's unique about the
Bowen Technique, but also because a number of the likely
candidates for comparison with Bowen are actually counter-indicated
when being treated with Bowen Therapy if one is to gain
the benefits of Bowen Therapy.
1. Bowen is not Massage.
Those newly introduced to Bowen often associate it to massage.
However its operation and objectives are quite different. Furthermore,
rubbing or even prolonged touching around a Bowen "move"
just applied can weaken the effectiveness of the more. Bowen
moves go no deeper than fascia on superficially accessible muscles,
and only do so with gentle pressure.
2. Bowen is not Acupressure.
Some of the areas of focus in a Bowen treatment will coincide
with acupuncture points, but there are so many acupoints some
overlap is inevitable. With Bowen "points," though,
a more focused intervention is complemented with a more economical
application. In Bowen Therapy, one simple move across
the structure is all it takes.
3. Bowen is not Chiropractic.
No manipulation of the skeletal system is made. Most practitioners
and many clients observe vertebral movement, but this is evidence
of the body realigning itself and a Bowen treament working.
Chiropractic adjustments following a Bowen treatment are counter-indicated.
4. Bowen is not Directional "Energy
Work."
Given its parameters, even energy work can be intrusive. Practitioners
can focus too much on accomplishing their own desired results,
which may or may not coincide with the client's needs. Instead,
Bowen practitioners are taught to focus only on doing a precise
movement accurately, and then physically leaving the room.
5. Bowen is not Physiotherapy or Neuromuscular
"Re-Education."
Stretch reflex, Golgi reflex and reciprocal enervation may be
involved in the muscular releases, but these occur on a cellular
level and expand out physically. In fact, people may fall asleep
during a session, and many will not feel the effects for several
days. These factors distinguish Bowen Therapy from remedial
exercises or movement training that some people need for long-term
injury recovery.
6. Bowen in not Trigger-Point Therapy.
Some points are unavoidably similar even though the referral
zones are different. Most trigger points are found in the core
of muscles, while Bowen muscle moves are usually made where
two muscles or muscle groups overlap. This and other factors
seem to make Bowen most similar to fascia work but...
7. Bowen is not Fascia Release.
With each Bowen move, the fascia is rocked and minutely "disturbed";
it is not forcefully separated. After a series of Bowen sessions,
adhesions tend to loosen and scar tissue frequently softens
and shrinks on its own because impediments to the natural healing
process are removed.
8. Bowen is not Lymphatic Massage.
Bowen does stimulate lymphatic releases, in that sinuses will
often drain during the session; breast lumps may shrink or be
gone within a few weeks; and excess fluids are usually eliminated
within the week. Bowen does not, however, use the percussion
or vigorous stroking of lymphatic massage, although there is
a bit of gentle "milking" done around the sternocleidomastoid
(SCM) muscle.
9. Bowen is not an Emotional Release Modality.
The intent of a Bowen session is not to effect emotional releases.
However, some people report the dramatic lightening of spirit
and a subtle but pervasive refocusing of troublesome emotional
patterns. Many bodyworkers consciously focus on the interface
between physical and emotional, trying to touch on that which
is hidden behind a protective wall of hypertense musculature.
Excessive pressure is not needed; Bowen Therapy confirms that
the best access is gained by the least threatening approach.
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