How Bowen Works

As student Bowen Practitioner I have been taught that the Practitioner (using the Bowen Move) sends signals to the central nervous system at specific locations and the body does the rest using its own healing mechanisms.

A central element of this is that Bowen acts on the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

We are mostly unaware of the operation of ANS however it acts in emergencies as “fight or flight” when the sympathetic nervous system is called into action - it uses energy - your blood pressure increases, your heart beats faster, and digestion slows down. Nowadays with high stress lifestyles we are often in “fight or flight” mode. However it is when we are in “rest and relax” mode that the parasympathetic nervous system works - your blood pressure decreases, your heart beats slower, digestion can start. When the parasympathetic nervous system is dominant healing can occur. You can find out more about the ANS by clicking here.

 

Student Bowen Practitioners are taught that Bowen catalyses the shift in dominance from sympathetic to parasympathetic nervous system.

In addition, there are theories that the following mechanisms may be activated:

The “move” changes the stimulus received by the nervous system which can change the pain/muscle spasm loop.

  • The “move” acts on the joint proprioceptors to increase range of joint movement
  • The “move” acts on the fascia affecting muscle coordination, postural alignment and structural and functional integrity
  • The “move” produces referred reactions in internal organs through stimulation of the skin muscles and nerves
  • The “move” sets up vibrational patterns to bring the body into balance.
  • The “move” activates drainage of the lymphatic system (specific moves)
  • The “move” initiates detoxification and so improves the body’s ability to function at a cellular level.
  • Many of the moves are carried out at acupuncture points and meridians and may explain the strong vibrational component of the technique.

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