NOT everyone enjoys deep pressure or firm massage. But for some complementary therapy practitioners, able to offer both conventional massage and Bowen therapy can increase their client base and help more people improve their overall health.
Bowen therapy involves small, gentle and precise moves rather than sustained force or deep pressure. A Bowen session incorporates intentional ‘pauses’ allowing the nervous system time to process and respond. This also provides clues and cues to the therapist who monitors and assesses any response.
In this instance gentle does not mean weak or ineffectual. In fact, Bowen has been shown to have a positive and sometimes dramatic impact in many cases, including relief of long-term chronic conditions. It is also suitable for all ages from babies to the frail elderly and vulnerable where massage may not be appropriate or practical.
For that reason, as well as for their own wellbeing and ability to continue working for longer, some massage therapists explore Bowen as a second modality recognising its benefit when working with stress and certain other conditions.
Bowen Technique instructor Jacqui Hoitingh writes: “Bowen Therapy is often explored by massage therapists looking for a gentler, nervous-system-led approach when pressure-based work no longer creates consistent change.
“They notice that some clients no longer soften with pressure, that certain patterns return over time, or that their own body feels increasingly tired after years of demanding hands-on work. Bowen is gentle on the client and on the therapist; some of them continue practising well into their Seventies and beyond,” she added.
If you are a massage therapist, we can help you decide if Bowen would complement your treatment offering. A good starting point, without any commitment, is to understand how and why Bowen Therapy works… Jacqui has created a free guide for therapists exploring nervous system regulation, fascia, the vagus nerve and TMJ.
We also recommend attending a one-day Introduction to Bowen Technique, an opportunity for anyone to experience Bowen, learn more about its origins and try some basic moves to help decide whether they wish to progress to full training. Dates and details can be found on our website
Editor’s note – 1: To request a copy of Jacqui’s free guide please email her directly info@jacquihoitingh.com
Editor’s note – 2: Bowen Therapy vs Remedial Massage
