Why Choose Bowen?

Reduces Pain
Relieves Tension
Improves Sleep



What Is Bowen Therapy?
Bowen is a gentle, non-invasive therapy devised by Tom Bowen in Geelong, Australia in the 1950s.
Sophie works across the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and fascia of the body at very specific points and with different pressures to stimulate responses. She will then leave the room for short breaks throughout the treatment to allow the body time to acknowledge the information it has been given and to start to process it and to balance and heal.
Bowen works holistically, addressing the whole body rather than individual symptoms. It aims to address the body / mind connection by influencing the central nervous system, encouraging a shift from a ‘fight or flight’ (sympathetic) state to a ‘rest and digest’ (parasympathetic) state, which is crucial for healing and balance.
Is Bowen Therapy right for me?
People seek out Bowen for many reasons including:
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Pain relief – following an injury or an acute medical episode, or in relation to a chronic condition.
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Stress relief – as a vital element of self-care; to help minimise the effects of stress, anxiety, low mood etc.
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Posture and mobility – to increase blood flow through the body and ease tensions which have become entrenched over time, taking the body back to a time when it may have been more aligned and 'happier'.
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Balance and wellbeing – Benefits may include better sleep, needing less reliance on painkillers, feeling more energised, confident, calm and in tune with yourself, with an increased ability to think clearly and problem solve.
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In preparation for a significant event – Bowen can help to prime the body ready for a race or a challenge. On the flip side, it can also calm the mind ready for a big exam or an important presentation.
What is a Bowen Session like?
Every Bowen session starts with a chat with Sophie to find out your symptoms and how you are feeling that day and to talk through your feedback following the previous session.
The treatment will usually begin lying on a couch on your front then turn onto your back. If preferred, clients can remain seated or find a position most comfortable for them. Your comfort is paramount so please discuss with Sophie if you have any special requirements and she will always accommodate them.
Please wear comfortable clothing, preferably not jeans or thick items.
What do I need to do and how will I feel during the session?
Feel free to relax during your Bowen treatment. Breathing calmly will help to ground yourself in the moment. Sophie may ask you to take deep breaths at certain points or move to a different position.
During your treatment, you may feel reactions through your body like changes of temperature or flowing or prickling feelings. You may fall asleep. You may not feel any sensations at all. All of these reactions are perfectly normal, as every body is different and will react different as the Bowen works through the body.
How will I feel afterwards?
Again, everyone feels different following a treatment.
You may feel quite tired.
It is advisable to drink plenty of water and to move around at regular intervals for the rest of the day.
If you receive other forms of therapy, try and leave at least 7 days either side of your Bowen treatment before having a different therapy.
Sophie will provide with specific aftercare advice at your session.
What Can Bowen Help With?
Bowen Therapy looks to restore balance throughout the body, bringing back ease of movement and mobility. For example, an imbalance in the hips or pelvis could be contributing to shoulder or knee pain. Rather than chasing symptoms, Bowen considers how different parts of the body may be connected.
Symptoms of the following can be helped with Bowen:
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Asthma, allergies and respiratory conditions
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Adrenal exhaustion and kidney issues
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Back pain, sciatica and coccyx pain
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Coughs and Colds, ear infections, blocked sinuses etc
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Colic in babies
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Dizziness
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Digestive and bowel problems
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Fatigue
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Headaches and migraines
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Knee, ankle and foot problems
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Lymphatic drainage and oedema
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Menstrual and hormonal changes
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Mobility issues
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Musculoskeletal imbalances of the hips, pelvis, shoulder etc.
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Postural imbalance
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Repetitive strain injuries of the arm and hand
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Skin conditions
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Sporting injuries
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Stress, Anxiety and emotional changes
This is an example only of some of the conditions which can be eased with Bowen.
FAQs
Is Bowen suitable for Everyone?
Yes, Bowen is a very gentle form of therapy suitable for babies, children and adults of all ages including pregnant women and those in palliative care.
Do I have to take my clothes off?
No, Bowen can be performed through light clothing, so you can remain fully clothed.
Do I have to lie on a couch?
No. Whilst most Bowen moves are done with the client lying on a couch, they can easily be adapted to suit you. You can remain seated or standing, whatever is most comfortable.
How Long is a Bowen Session?
Your first session may last 60-75 minutes. This will consist of your initial consultation followed by a Bowen Treatment to balance the body. Subsequent treatments will usually be between 30-60 minutes depending on the focus of the treatment and which procedures are used.
Will Bowen help my condition?
Bowen can help relieve symptoms from a wide range of acute and chronic health conditions. Sophie can discuss your particular needs with you so do give her a call.