What is Bowen therapy?

This question actually has two different answers. Bowen therapy, in the field of Marriage & Family Therapy, is a family systems model of therapy developed by Dr. Murray Bowen, MD. Dr. Bowen was a psychiatrist who theorized that current problems or concerns experienced by an individual could be addressed by investigating emotional connections, patterns, and dynamics “transmitted” over multiple generations of one’s family members. The individual could then gain insight into any dysfunctional “transmissions”, thus eventually being able to improve his/her level of “differentiation of self.” 

The other Bowen therapy was developed in the 1950’s by an Australian man named Tom Bowen. “Bowenwork “ was described as a gentle bodywork technique that resets dysfunctional tension patterns in muscles and nerves that are causing discomfort and pain. Pain reduction and relaxation are achieved when the gentle movements send neurological impulses to the brain creating energy surges. Practitioners of Bowenwork differentiate the technique from massage, acupressure or chiropractic in that there is no manipulation, adjustment or force used. The practitioner uses thumbs and fingers to gently move muscles and tissues. Both therapies have international followings.

Bowen therapy, also known as Bowen treatment, is a technique that involves gentle, but precise, soft tissue manipulation. The approach was initially developed to treat musculoskeletal disorders. Later, it was used to treat other health conditions such as asthma.

In general, Bowen therapy does not aim to fix specific health problems, but rather to help the body reach a more harmonious state in which it can better cure itself. Short-term benefits are said to include a sense of relaxation. Long-term effects may include better overall well being or improvements in diseases.

Bowen therapists use their thumbs or fingers to make subtle rolling movements on the patient's body. Bowen sessions may last from 30 to 90 minutes and are often customized to the individual. Many Bowen practitioners see this approach as being complementary to other medical treatments, such as prescription drugs or surgery, rather than as a replacement for other treatments.

There are several theories as to how Bowen therapy may work. It has been suggested that Bowen therapy may correct faulty vibrational frequencies in the body and improve overall balance, improve connections between the nervous system and the brain, improve connections between different body systems, and facilitate overall harmony of the body. However, scientific evidence is limited in this area.

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Bowen Therapy, through specific soft tissue or fascial release and integration techniques, stimulate specific receptors that enable the body itself to correct dysfunctions and restore homeostasis (balance) on a holistic level. 
  
Through treating the cause rather than the symptoms, Bowen Therapy has consistently shown it can have profound and permanent healing and pain relief outcomes.(http://www.bowen.asn.au/bowen-therapy/conditions/)
  
This relief is experienced by many people who present with a wide range of painful conditions, even where other modalities or treatments have resulted in transient or little improvement. 
  
Importantly, Bowen Therapy, being holistic, does not rely on a detailed diagnosis of the problem and its origins, which is often costly and indeterminate. Bowen Therapy treats the whole body, and its holistic effects are apparent in patients who find resolution to problems above and beyond those for which they have sought treatment, for example lack of energy, stress or emotional issues.