What is the Bowen Technique?
The Bowen Technique is a most effective, drug-free, non-invasive form of bodywork therapy. It releases stress at a very deep level, and then stimulates the body to realign, addressing imbalances in functions and chemical composition and, as far as possible, restoring physiological equilibrium.
How did the Bowen Technique get its name?
The name refers to Tom Bowen (1916–1982), who pioneered the therapy at his clinic in Australia during the 1960s.
What is the treatment like?
The Bowen therapist makes a series of gentle but precise moves over connective tissue (muscles and ligaments) with thumbs and fingers. The touch is light, not manipulative, and is suitable for anyone. If preferred, Bowen can be performed through light clothing. A Bowen treatment is generally pleasant to receive, and many clients become so relaxed that they fall asleep during the treatment.
How does Bowen therapy work?
Research shows that from the very first Bowen moves, the body and mind relax almost into sleep. This depth of relaxation allows the body to respond to the brain’s command to search for imbalances in the system and make the necessary adjustments to correct disorders. The moves also relieve pain, release energy, reduce tension, increase blood supply, improve lymphatic drainage, release toxins, and so much more (see case studies for examples).
Does Bowen therapy hurt?
Generally, no. Bowen therapy consists of gentle moves on precise trigger points in the body, using only the amount of pressure appropriate for the individual being treated. No hard-tissue manipulation or force is needed or used.
Is Bowen therapy safe?
Yes. There are no violent twists, cracks or crunches. Bowen is practised with great success on people of all ages, from new-born babies to the very elderly.
Is Bowen safe during pregnancy?
Most Bowen procedures can be carried out safely during pregnancy. Bowen therapy may provide relief from symptoms such as lower back pain, breathlessness and morning sickness.
What conditions can Bowen treat?
Because of the way it works on the autonomic nervous system, which controls over 80% of bodily functions, the Bowen Technique repeatedly achieves excellent results with a wide range of conditions.
See if your condition is listed here. If it is not,
contact Stephen Blackwood for advice on whether Bowen therapy could help you.
How many Bowen treatments will I need?
This varies from person to person, and may depend on the condition being treated. However, it is recommended that a client commits to three sessions, five to ten days apart. It will then be clear how well Bowen is working for you. Clients usually experience a very positive result very quickly.
Will the effects of my Bowen therapy last?
Bowen’s “ace card” is that conditions successfully treated will usually not return unless re-injury occurs. Rapid and long-lasting results are common, and many conditions that have failed to respond to other treatments are found to respond very well to Bowen.
Will I have to undress for treatment?
No, Bowen can be administered through a thin layer of clothing if preferred, with no loss of efficacy.
What should I wear?
Light clothing made of natural fibres is best. The temperature in the Blackwood Bowen Clinic’s treatment room is maintained at a comfortable level all year round. In cooler weather, please ensure that you have warm clothing to put on when you leave the treatment room.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself and a list of any medication you are taking
What happens at the initial consultation?
Stephen will ask you about your health background and about the condition that has brought you to Bowen. He will also ask for details of any medication you are taking. It is also an opportunity for you to ask any further questions you may have concerning Bowen. You are under no obligation to go ahead with a treatment. But if you wish to do so, time will have been allocated for this after your consultation.
How long does a Bowen session take?
The initial free consultation takes around 30 minutes. Subsequent Bowen sessions vary, depending on the needs of the individual, but are usually between 45 and 60 minutes.
What about medication?
A Bowen practitioner will never change, reduce, or recommend that you stop taking, medication that your doctor has prescribed for you. Your therapist will always refer you back to your doctor for advice on this matter. However, at the end of each session you will be asked to drink a glass of water. You will also be advised to drink at least five glasses of water a day throughout the following week. This helps with the metabolisation of Bowen and also aids the detoxification process it initialises.
Can I mix Bowen with other therapies?
Other therapies can interfere with the potential benefits of Bowen therapy by confusing the body’s response and inhibiting the healing process. So it is recommended that you refrain from other hands-on therapies during the period that you are having Bowen treatments.
Will a Bowen therapist diagnose my condition?
No, Bowen is not a diagnostic therapy. Your GP will diagnose, your Bowen therapist will not.
Is Bowen therapy expensive?
No. Because it often achieves positive results very quickly, and success rates are high with conditions that are normally difficult and expensive to treat, Bowen is recognised as a very cost-effective treatment. Your initial consultation at the Blackwood Bowen Clinic is free. A Bowen therapy session is £60, payable by cash or cheque.
How do I make an appointment?
Call the Blackwood Bowen Clinic on 020 8991 9755. If Stephen Blackwood is unable to speak to you straight away, you will be asked to leave a message and Stephen will call you back as soon as he can. Alternatively,
click here to email Stephen.
How much notice must I give to cancel?
At least 24 hours. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, the full fee will be payable.