Bowen is Not ....................

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.