Bowen or Massage?

We all have our favourites and there’s nothing wrong with that but sometimes changing it up is exactly what our body needs to take our healing to the next level. Understanding that there are other options can open up your healing world.
 
Did you know that there are many occasions where Bowen or Massage could effectively address your issue?  They are quite different techniques but can be equally effective. The hardest part is trying something you don’t know anything about. Here’s a little rundown on their similarities and differences and more info on Bowen – in case you didn’t already know!

 
How are Massage and Bowen Therapy similar?

• Both are soft tissue therapies used to address musculoskeletal conditions
• Both use therapeutic touch to promote blood flow and lymphatic drainage, improve mobility and assist with the body’s detox process
• Both have the capacity to induce relaxation (depending on the massage!)
• Both offer treatment while lying on a treatment table – with some exceptions

…That’s probably where the similarity ends
 
How is Bowen Different?
Bowen Therapy doesn't look or feel like massage.

• There's no oil and in most instances, as long as you're wearing light clothing, you won't need to remove it.  
• There’s no kneading of muscles, no repeated deep pressure, no vigorous manipulation.
• Often people don’t feel the same kind of post treatment soreness as one can report after a massage which means it’s a great option for extra sensitive bodies. People with fibromyalgia for example often prefer Bowen because it is much gentler for their hypersensitive bodies

 
What is Bowen Therapy and how does it work?
Bowen is a gentle yet very effective therapeutic technique that is safe for all ages – from newborns to the elderly. 
A series of moves are performed on muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints & nerve bundles to stimulate the body to work towards an improved state. These moves are performed in order to effect the fascia –connective tissue (a bit like cling wrap) that covers and connects everything to everything else inside you.
Sometimes the pressure will feel gentle, other times firm – it’s all part of the process of interacting with the body and its receptors to assist in the healing process.
You will notice frequent short breaks where the is no touch - this gives the body time to process and respond.  
The session usually lasts somewhere between 45-60mins – with some exceptions.
 
Who and How can it help?
People from all ages and all walks of life can benefit from Bowen Therapy. Sports enthusiasts, office workers, newborns, students, travellers, you name it – Every body is better with Bowen!
 
It is holistic and so versatile that it benefits both physical and emotional issues. A few examples:
Muscular and joint aches and pains
Headaches and migraines
Digestive complaints
Discomfort during pregnancy  
Anxiety
Stress management
 
You don’t have to be ailing to benefit from Bowen Therapy. Adding Bowen to my self-care routine always helps me feel more Me again.
 
So the next time you are getting ready to book a treatment, consider changing it up a little – what have you got to lose but your discomfort?!