A Bowen Therapy Session - What to expect and how to prepare

Before the session

Because of the subtlety of Bowen and the body's continuing response to it, schedule your Bowen session at least 4 to 5 days before or after any other bodywork such as massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, reflexology, Reiki, or other modality, as these may interfere with Bowen Therapy's effectiveness.

For best results, make sure you are properly hydrating in the days prior to a  treatment. This helps the messages and vibrations of the performed Bowen moves to travel more easily through muscles, fascia, and tendons.

Bring or wear light, loose, comfortable clothing to the session (for example, cotton t-shirt, gym shorts, yoga pants).

During the session

A Bowen session usually lasts about 45 mins to an hour. You lie on a soft treatment table or are seated in a chair if required for comfort. A series of gentle but purposeful moves are applied to specific areas of the body. These moves are done on the skin or through light clothing. There are specific pauses between various sets of moves to allow the body to integrate and process the received messages, and to activate the healing process. You may feel deeply relaxed.

Each session is individualized specifically for you according to how your body responds.

After the session

Following a session, you may feel refreshed and energized. You may be able to move more freely and find that pain is relieved or reduced. Occasionally, people feel sore or experience a worsening of their symptoms, which is a sign that the body is processing and healing. Such symptoms should disappear within a few days.

You are encouraged to drink lots of water, avoid strenuous exercise, and make sure you get up and move around every hour or so (unless sleeping) for a couple of days following the treatment. The body continues to heal for up to 5 days following a Bowen treatment which is why we recommend you avoid other manipulative therapies during this time. 

Although monthly or quarterly treatments are beneficial, people often find lasting relief within a small number of sessions, especially for acute conditions. Chronic conditions are vastly improved with ongoing work.