1. Bowen is not Massage
Many people often
associate Bowen with massage, however, its operation and objectives are
quite different. Furthermore, rubbing or even prolonged touching around
a Bowen "move" just applied can weaken the effectiveness of the move.
Bowen moves go no deeper than fascia on superficially accessible
muscles, and only do so with gentle pressure.
2. Bowen is not Acupressure
Some of the areas of
focus in a Bowen treatment will coincide with acupuncture points, but
there are so many acupressure points that overlap is inevitable. With
Bowen "points," though, a more focused intervention is complemented with
a more economical application. In the Bowen Technique, one simple move
across the structure is all it takes.
3. Bowen is not Chiropractic
No manipulation of the
skeletal system is made. Most practitioners and many clients observe
vertebral movement, but this is evidence of the body realigning itself
and the effectiveness of the Bowen treatment. Chiropractic adjustments
following a Bowen treatment are contraindicated.
4 . Bowen is not "Energy Work"
Given its parameters,
even energy work can be intrusive. Practitioners can focus too much on
accomplishing their own desired results, which may or may not coincide
with the client's needs. Instead, Bowen practitioners are taught to
focus only on doing a precise movement accurately, and then physically
leaving the room.
5. Bowen is not Physiotherapy nor Neuromuscular
"Re-Education”
Stretch reflex, Golgi
reflex and reciprocal enervation may be involved in the muscular
releases, but these occur on a cellular level and expand out physically.
In fact, people may fall asleep during a session, and many will not feel
the effects for several days. These factors distinguish the Bowen
Technique from remedial exercises or movement training that some people
need for long-term injury recovery.
6. Bowen in not Trigger-Point Therapy
Some points are
unavoidably similar even though the referral zones are different. Most
trigger points are found in the core of muscles, while Bowen muscle
moves are usually made where two muscles or muscle groups overlap.
7. Bowen is not Fascia Release
With each Bowen move,
the fascia is rocked and minutely "disturbed". It is not forcefully
separated. After a series of Bowen sessions, adhesions tend to loosen
and scar tissue frequently softens and shrinks on its own because
impediments to the natural healing process are removed.
8. Bowen is not Lymphatic Massage
Bowen does stimulate
lymphatic drainage, in that sinuses will often drain during the session;
breast lumps may shrink or be gone within a few weeks; and excess fluids
are usually eliminated within the week. Bowen does not use vigorous
stroking of lymphatic massage.
9. Bowen is not an Emotional Release Modality
The intent of a Bowen
session is not to effect emotional releases. However, some people report
the dramatic lightening of spirit and a subtle but pervasive refocusing
of troublesome emotional patterns.
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