Bowen FAQs

What is The Bowen Technique?

The Bowen Technique in Exeter is a gentle, relaxing and non-intrusive remedial therapy which can assist with a multitude of body conditions. Unlike traditional massage, the Bowen Technique features a unique series of gentle rolling moves over muscles, tendons, ligaments and superficial fascia using the index fingers and thumbs. There is no sustained pressure, manipulation or cracking of bones or joints. Indeed the client will often find the Bowen moves to be surprisingly light and gentle, inducing a deep state of relaxation and most importantly, healing. This incredible technique addresses the body and its connected systems as a whole, including the lymphatic, musculosketal, cardiovascular, Endocrine, Fascial and Nervous Systems.

What does the Bowen Technique treat?

The Bowen Techniques addresses the body’s incredible multiple connected systems to create change and initiate the body’s own healing responses. By working on one area, we create change in the body as a whole; indeed by looking at the body as a whole rather than one symptom or area of concern we are more able to effectively establish change. For example hip pain and imbalance may be coming from the jaw or shoulder, so it is important to address the tensegrity or connectivity of the systems entirety. Improving Lymphatic Function and the Vagus Nerve Tone are often important components of a Bowen treatment. Common Conditions often treated using The Bowen Technique include:

  • Allergies
  • Anxiety
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Back Pain
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Depression
  • Digestive/Bowel Issues
  • Fertility Problems
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • General Pain
  • Headaches
  • Hip Replacements
  • Joint Pain
  • Knee Problems
  • Low Immunity
  • Menstrual Problems
  • Migraines
  • M.E
  • Neck Pain
  • Postural Problems
  • Pregnancy
  • RSI
  • Shoulder Pain
  • Sports Injuries
  • Sciatica
  • Sleep problems
  • Stress
  • Structural and Skeletal Imbalances
  • Work Place Injuries

This list is by no means complete – as a holistic therapy, The Bowen Technique can be effective in treating any condition. Many find Bowen helpful in coping with and reducing pain, alleviating stress and other symptoms.

Bowen is also becoming increasingly popular with sports people who find regular treatments can prevent re-injury and improve performance.

Studies and further details can be found on the ECBS website: www.thebowentechnique.com

How does it work?

The Bowen Technique works with muscles, tendons, ligaments and superficial fascia ~ the layer underneath the skin that covers our entire body and organs. This fascia connects all body parts and organs, so that when a Bowen Therapist applies a move, a disturbance is made, encouraging the body to respond and connections to be made. The difference from Bowen to some other therapies is that the pressure is surprisingly light, and between each set of moves, there is a break of a few minutes to give the body time and space to process, absorb and respond to the moves. In Bowen, the body is seen as healer and the practitioner is careful not to overload the body with unnecessary information, giving it enough to respond as it needs.

Why choose Bowen?

Many choose Bowen therapy for its unique gentle approach and emphasis on the body as healer. There no cracking, painful pressure or manipulation by the Therapist which makes it a gentle and suitable therapy for all ages – including babies, the elderly and pregnancy. Indeed it is often a surprisingly deeply relaxing experience. Many have found Bowen Technique to be beneficial for balancing their bodies, posture, easing pains, raising immunity, easing anxiety and depression and much more. Advocates of the Bowen Technique include survival celebrity Bear Grylls.

What can I Expect from a Bowen Session?

When you arrive for your first Bowen Treatment, we will take an in depth consultation to assess your health, before embarking on the treatment in the same session. After that we will have shorter consultations before treatment to assess your progress.

Comfortable, thin and loose clothing or comfortable underwear is recommended (including leggings and joggers).

During treatment the client may lie on the couch or remain seated on a chairif lying is not possible. The therapist will then make a series of small and gentle rolling type movements using fingers and thumbs over muscles, tendons, ligaments and superficial fascia around the body. In between each sequence of moves, the therapist will leave the room or bed, for several minutes. This allows the client’s body time and space to absorb the work and begin its own healing process. 

A full treatment lasts between around 40-60 minutes, depending on the clients condition, with time given for consultation and assessmentIt is generally recommended that the client keeps mobile and drinks plenty of plain water after a treatmentWe also advise that the client has around x3 treatments consecutively, 5-7 days apart,in order to gain the full effects of Bowen. However this entirely depends on the nature of the condition – some people find one Bowen treatment is enough to sort out an issue, while others return for regular treatments to keep them healthy and injury free. I feel it is ultimately up to the client as to how many treatments they wish to have.

Most clients report feeling deeply relaxed during a session, enabling the client to reconnect with their body  – often helpful with symptoms of anxiety and depression.

It is strongly recommended that no other therapies are undertaken during this time – this is to ensure that the client gets the most out of their treatment, as well as to enable both client and therapist to see how Bowen is working for them, without any other therapies confusing the body or assessment.

How much does a Bowen Session Cost?

An hour consultation and treatment costs £50

Don’t forget to get a loyalty card stamped for £10 off your 8th session!

*Concessions may apply depending on circumstances. Please contact for advice.

Card or cash accepted

 

How much does Therapeutic Massage cost?

Therapeutic Massage based on Emily’s training in Swedish, Aromatherapy and Indian Head Massage from Magdalen Rd. See Therapeutic Massage for more information:

Swedish & Aromatherapy Moogwax or Songbird Massage:

90 min   £65

60min   £55

45 min   £45

30 min   £35

 

Seated Indian Head Massage ‘Champissage’ (with or without oil) – includes top of back and shoulders, head and face:

30 mins   £40

45 mins   £45

 

Where are you located?

I offer treatments from Zamora Health & Beauty located at 37 Magdalen Rd, St Leonards (above HQ Hairdressers) with limited on street parking, and Fair Park car park close by.  This ethical and eco friendly salon offers many other complementary treatments, including vegan Beauty, Reiki, Reflexology, Craniosacral therapy and massage.

We are nestled in the centre of Magdalen Rd, just a five minute stroll from the city centre – a boutique array of independent shops, including gift shops, cafes, clothing, restaurants including Taco Boys, Maker Maker Music/Ukulele Shop, Ian’s wonderful Wine shop, the award winning Bon Gout Deli, Ben’s Farm Shop and The Grocer on The Green to name a few. It’s well worth a visit to support vibrant local businesses, and is known for its community spirit and excellent Christmas fair!

 

How do I book?

Feel free to contact me via telephone call or text and I will be happy to call you back or arrange a time to book in. You can also ask questions via telephone or email: 07773 406787 / info@bowenwellbeing.com 

To book directly with Zamora call: 01392 273040