Types of Bodywork:
What is Bowen Therapy?
Bowen therapy is a type of bodywork in which the practitioner uses his/her fingers to make gentle movements over the skin that introduce a vibration into the muscle. The muscle then responds with its own vibration. This is thought to activate the body's healing system.Studies have shown that various areas of the body vibrate at specific frequencies. The fascia which is the layer of tissue underlying the skin has a strong electrical charge. (For more information on the importance of fascia, see the pages on craniosacral therapy and myofascial release). In certain areas, known as meridians or acupoints, the electrical conductivity of the skin is much higher than that of the surrounding skin. Stimulation of these points can positively affect health and energy flow. For more information on meridians and acupoints see the page on acupressure).
Bowen Therapy also positively affects the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The parasympathetic system performs involuntary functions such as digestion, breathing and circulation. Bowen supports this system by interrupting the fight or flight response that can result in decreased immune function.
The sympathetic system helps the body to respond to any situation that is perceived by the animal as being dangerous. When the body is stressed, the brain produces a hormone, cortisol, that is released into the bloodstream, supporting the animal in springing into action.
Cells are the basic building blocks of the body and their health has a direct bearing on the health of the entire organism. When Bowen movements are made across tissue, the nervous system is triggered to activate neural pathways in the brain. This increases cellular health by encouraging circulation of blood and lymph.
How did Bowen Therapy begin?
Tom Bowen (1916-1982) developed this method of bodywork. People with chronic and acute health issues came to him and he helped many of these individuals resolve their health difficulties. As news of his talent spread, he was inundated with clients. He had several students, so they were able to share his work with the world after his death.Today Australia is home to the Bowen Therapy Academy, www.bowtech.com, the institute that bears his name and teaches his methods. Recently,his work has been adapted to animals. A few of the organizations that provide information on animal Bowen are: www.animalconnectionnetwork.com, www.animalbowen.com, www.equi-bowcanada.com, www.theequinetouch.com, and www.usbowen.com.
The success of Bowen Therapy has continued to increase exponentially. Today it is practiced in approximately 40 countries. Therapists from all walks of life: osteopaths, massage therapists, chiropractors, naturopaths and more are finding it helpful in their work.