WE ASKED student therapist Alina Bacanaru to share some of her impressions as she prepares for her final Module 7 assessment. Having completed the Original Bowen Technique Modules 1- 4 in Romania some years ago, her experience with Bowen Training UK has been something of a revelation.
Smaller training groups allows more time for the instructor to explain and clarify, with greater emphasis on ‘learning through practice’ she told us. “In Romania sometimes the class had 20 students, and the focus was to get through the necessary procedures, with very little time for questions.
“At first the idea of starting again felt daunting. I already had some knowledge and understanding of the core principles… light touch, deep relaxation and supporting the body’s natural balance. Would I be bored going back to the beginning?
“However, from the very first class I realised this was not about repeating the past but about deepening my understanding. The Bowen Training UK programme added new layers of understanding, introduced me to different ideas and provided a broader perspective on anatomy, client care and ultimately on the extraordinary potential of the Bowen Technique itself,” she added.
After moving with her family to the UK in 2020, Alina chose Bowen Training UK to re-start her training as we are closely aligned to the original principles of founder Tom Bowen. The programme structure and high standards of professionalism also played an important part in her decision.
The role of the instructor is critical, she said. “Helen was encouraging and full of practical advice from my first telephone inquiry. At her suggestion I studied for my AP&P qualification before starting the beginners’ course and completed an on-line course with Gill Tree Training. This made such a difference in class as everything made more sense!
“Learning with Helen was a revelation, almost like learning a whole new programme. While the moves are the same and the manual is the same her approach is very client-centred ensuring they are comfortable and kept well informed. For example, it is not always possible for a client in great pain to lie prone face-down on the couch. She is patient and calm, and nothing is too much trouble even collecting me from the railway station which would never happen in Romania!” she added.
“I am thankful I took a leap of faith to re-start my training here which I consider an investment in my skills, my confidence and my future as a Bowen Technique practitioner. The most rewarding part has been connecting with a community of therapists and future practitioners who share the same passion for helping people feel well… physically, mentally and emotionally. It has been truly inspiring to learn alongside others who believe as I do, that gentle touch can create profound change for the better.”