|
|
Susan C. Russell DBth, MIRCH, MBTER
Medical Herbalist & Bowen Therapist
ABOUT THE BOWEN TECHNIQUE:
This is a very gentle form of body work. Treatment can usually be given through light clothing and is suitable for any age group. The practitioner uses their fingers and thumbs to make rolling type movements over soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments), which in turn ‘disturb’ the underlying energy and structure of the area. Via the nervous system the brain receives and interprets the information thus generated and is able to initiate the natural healing responses. During the session there are built in pauses to allow time for the body to ‘absorb’ the treatment, and it is during these pauses, and over the following days, that changes occur. Initially, as the body relaxes and starts working to clear the problem areas, there may be a slight temporary exacerbation of symptoms before improvement is seen. The number of treatments needed will vary from person to person according to age (children respond very quickly, whereas the elderly will usually require several sessions), how long the problem has been suffered (a ten year old back problem is unlikely to be resolved in a few minutes) ,general health and individual response. It is important to understand that the practitioner is merely setting up conditions in the body that will allow changes to occur - it is the body itself that is ‘doing all the work’.
Although the majority of people come to this form of treatment to resolve muscular problems or injuries (such as back, hip, shoulder, knee pain), the Bowen Technique is also applicable to other health issues, such as respiratory problems, IBS, chronic fatigue, depression, headaches, glue ear etc. As a holistic therapy it helps to relax and clear the underlying congestion and toxicity involved in such problems, especially if combined with herbal or homeopathic medications, plus attention to diet and lifestyle. Regular treatments help in managing stress and encourage good health maintenance.
What to expect during your appointment: Each appointment will take about an hour. A short case history is taken to establish the nature of the problem at the first visit. Treatment is then given with the patient lying down, usually through clothing unless this is too restrictive, and is usually experienced as being very relaxing. As this is a holistic therapy the whole body is taken into consideration and treated as necessary, not only the obvious problem area. Following the session you will be given a glass of water and encouraged to keep up a good water intake over the following days to benefit fully from treatment. An adequate water intake will support the natural healing processes that will be taking place in your body, while also assisting in the removal of waste products. A second appointment is required the following week and usually another two weeks later, with subsequent appointments as needed by the individual
PRESS ARTICLES ON THE BOWEN TECHNIQUE
bravenet.com