Bowen Technique

Tom Bowen was the originator of the "Bowen Technique" (so-called only by those who followed him). Born in Australia (1916-1982), he developed a pared-down but often powerful style of working on bodies. Seemingly largely self-taught in the concepts and techniques of osteopathy, and known to have delved into the Chinese meridian system as well, he developed his style through a prodigious amount of hands-on experience over the years.

The story goes that being an avid sports fan, he treated many athletes through the years, and was able to help them both avoid and bounce back from injuries, as well as play their best game. He also treated many work injuries while he was still employed as a laborer. But his work went beyond just treating athletes and injuries. Due to the global as well as specific ways it can affect the body it has been hailed as a viable treatment for a vast range of ailments. These include respiratory illnesses such as asthma and allergies, and GI symptoms such as colic in children.

One of Bowen's signature moves involves slightly stretching and then "rolling over" a tendon, or muscle belly, in a way that signals a chain-reaction of subtle adjustments in the body. At its core this gentle technique helps to balance the autonomic nervous system, which among other benefits reduces the response to stress, something that is valuable for everyone. Bowen's techniques are being investigated, analyzed and incorporated by body-workers today around the globe.

Bowen Technique may be performed with the recipient clothed.