The Differences Between Bowen Therapy & Remedial Massage

Bowen Therapy – do you know what it is?

As a Bowen Therapy Practitioner, few people know about or understand what Bowen Therapy is. Although, it is starting to become more known I feel there needs to be lots more education and awareness (both to other health practitioners and the public) before it becomes well known like remedial massage, acupuncture, and other health care modalities.

When I’m asked what I do for work, if I answer with ”I am a remedial massage therapist” the conversation keeps flowing, because we all know (or majority of us know, what a remedial massage is). However, If I’m asked, and I say “I’m a Bowen Therapist,” I will 90% of the time get a response, “what is that?”

Bowen Therapy is a relatively new modality (developed in the 1950’s by an Australian, Tom Bowen), and the technique started being taught in 1986, and is unlike any other treatment I have come across.

Both Bowen Therapy and Remedial Massage are very relaxing but some of the KEY differences include:

• Bowen Therapy addresses the ENTIRE BODY, rather than focusing on a single complaint.

• Bowen Therapy sessions (Bowtech Bowen) involves 1 or more ‘procedures’ each consisting of several sets of ‘moves.’ Between each set of move, the practitioner pauses for a couple of minutes for the client’s body to respond (this is when a client may feel sensations). Once the body has responded, the next moves are done.

• Bowen Therapy works on the following mechanisms:

  • Stretch reflex

  • Joint proprioception

  • Fascia

  • Acupuncture points and meridians

  • Lymphatics

  • Detoxification and,

  • Harmonic vibration.

• Bowen Therapy is very GENTLE. It makes a great treatment for babies and elderly, as it requires minimal pressure and minimal intervention.

• No oil is used in a Bowen Therapy session, and light clothing may be worn.

• Bowen Therapy is subtle and very calming. Your body may continue to process and respond to treatment for up to 10 days following a session. It uses the bodies innate intelligence to heal itself and works with mind/body connection.

• Treatment lasts between 30 mins-60 mins and may be able to correct a problem in 3 treatments.

• There are very few contraindications with Bowen Therapy.

• Remedial Massage can focus on a single complaint or address the entire body (depending on what the client asks for).

• In a Remedial Massage treatment, the practitioner imposes correction on the client through different massage styles.

• Oils are used in a remedial massage treatment.

• Client allocates length of time and pressure used.