BOWENWORK

WHAT IS BOWENWORK?​​

Bowenwork (often called the Bowen Technique) is a gentle, hands-on body therapy that helps the nervous system reset so the body can heal itself. It’s different from most massage or bodywork because it uses very light, precise rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and ligaments, with pauses in between to give the body time to integrate the signals. 

Bowenwork sends subtle messages to the nervous system, helping shift the body from "fight or flight" to "rest and repair". It allows the muscles to release and realign on their own. Clients state that this technique is surprisingly gentle, deeply relaxing or meditative, and that changes can be noticed over hours and or even days after a session, and not just on the table.

​

WHO SHOULD GET BOWENWORK?

Due to the gentleness of Bowenwork, it can be used for people of all ages, from birth on. There are even protocols for babies and young children! In addition, there are very few contraindications, which means almost anyone can receive Bowenwork!

​

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW BEFORE A BOWENWORK SESSION?​​​

Bowenwork is likely very different than any other type of bodywork you have received. Sessions usually last between 45 minutes and 75 minutes based on the procedures needed on that day. Sessions include a check-in conversation and a rest period at the end to allow the body to process. 3-5 sessions are recommended and should take place every 5-10 days to help the body establish new patterns, process new information, and move away from old patterns. During the initial sessions, it is recommended not to receive other bodywork so that the body does not get overloaded.

​

WHAT CAN BOWENWORK HELP?

Bowenwork helps the body become reconnected to its nervous system and has been known to help many conditions. Here are a few common things it can help:

• Back Pain and Sciatica

• Headaches and Migraines

• Neck Problems

• Stress and Overwhelm

• Earache and TMJ Problems

• Menstrual and Hormonal Irregularities

• Pelvic Tilt and Uneven Legs

• Respiratory Problems and Hayfever

• Lymphatic Problems

• Injury Recovery

• Digestive Issues

• Bedwetting (in children)

• Hip, Knee, Ankle, and Foot Problems

• Neck and Shoulder Problems (including Frozen Shoulder)

• RSI, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and Tennis Elbow

​​

And so many more! It is also extremely helpful for any problems that have not responded to other types of bodywork.

​​​

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO GET BOWENWORK?

It is suggested that you plan to have between 3 and 5 sessions close together in order to receive the full benefits of this technique. (Although acute problems may resolve sooner.) Sessions are typically spaced 5–10 days apart to give your body time to fully respond.

Bowenwork doesn’t end when you get off the table. Your body will continue to process and integrate the work for several days afterward. This space allows patterns of tension to unwind gradually and naturally, without being rushed. By giving your system time to settle and reorganize, each session can build on the last in a way that feels supportive, sustainable, and aligned with your body’s own pace.

Please remember, as with any bodywork, if the problem is a long-term or chronic condition, it often has taken time for our bodies to get this way, and it may take several sessions to see improvement.

​

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING A BOWENWORK SESSION? 

During a Bowenwork session, clients will stay fully clothed and will lie on a massage table covered by a blanket. Small, gentle rolling movements will be done at specific parts of the body. After each set of movements, there are short pauses that can last several minutes at a time. During these pauses, the body processes the movements and integrates the new information. Many people report feeling very relaxed and often fall asleep. To end the session, there will be a time of rest on the table before going on with your day. This time of rest will vary based on the movements of the session. 

​

WHY ARE THERE PAUSES IN BOWENWORK?

Each gentle Bowenwork move sends signals throughout the body. During the pauses, the nervous system registers these signals and helps the body begin to integrate the changes. These pauses keep the body from getting overwhelmed by sending too many signals at once. They help the muscles begin to release on their own, allow patterns of tension to unwind, and different parts of the body communicate with each other.

The moves are like asking a question, and the pauses are where the body answers.

​