Bowen Therapy
The Bowen Technique is a dynamic system of muscle and connective tissue therapy that stimulates the body to heal itself. The Bowen Technique uses small but measured inputs to restore balance to the whole body via the autonomic nervous system. The practitioner delivers these signals to the autonomic nervous system on muscles, ligaments, tendons or nerves at specific locations. Healing occurs when the autonomic nervous system, which controls 80% of bodily functions, and is highly susceptible to external stressors shifts to rest, relax and repair mode. A shift that the Bowen Technique appears to catalyse.
Bowen Therapy can support recovery from acute and traumatic injury or chronic conditions. Bowen may assist if your healing and recovery from sickness or surgery has reached a plateau. Recovery depends upon your individual capacity to heal.
Receiving Bowen is a gentle, subtle and relaxing experience. A Bowen treatment integrates body and mind connections improving overall wellbeing. Bowen is safe for all ages and can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions.
Some conditions that respond favourably to Bowen include:
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Headaches and migraines
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Neck and shoulder problems (including ‘frozen shoulder’)
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Earache and TMJ problems
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Respiratory problems, hay fever and sinus
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Back pain and sciatica
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Pelvic tilt, groin pain and uneven leg length
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Hip, knee, ankle and foot problems
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Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
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Insomnia
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Menstrual and hormonal irregularities
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RSI, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Tennis elbow
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Sports and other traumatic injuries.
Bowen Appointments
Bowen Therapy First Appointment - $80 (75-90 minutes)
Subsequent Appointment - $70 (45-75 minutes)
Appointments take place at my home office at Raumati, Kāpiti.
Appointments available weekdays and some evenings.
Fee payable by bank transfer. Please give 24 hours notice of cancellation.
To request a first appointment, click the button below to open my intake form.
Please complete this and return to me via email at hello.j9m@gmail.com.
I'll get back to you to discuss an appointment.
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Is Bowen safe?Yes. Bowen is gentle and non-invasive. It does not interfere with traditional medical practices and is appropriate for all ages.
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How does Bowen work?The Bowen Technique utilises small but measured inputs into the body stimulating the body to heal itself. Signals are delivered to the nervous system at specific locations and the body responds as it is able.
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How long is a Bowen session?60 to 75 minutes for your first session. Subsequent sessions vary from 45 to 60 minutes.
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What happens during a Bowen session?Bowen involves a series of short rolling moves made over muscles tendons, ligaments and fascia. It is unlike any massage stroke or manipulation. Many people experience deep relaxation and some even fall asleep.
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Why does the Bowen Practitioner leave the room at frequent intervals?There are essential pauses during your Bowen treatment, which allow the nervous system and fascia to respond and begin the healing process. I will frequently leave the room for two minutes or more to allow your brain and body to respond.
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What can I expect after a Bowen session?In some instances you may feel tired or emotional. You might experience some discomfort. This is temporary and usually passes in a few days. It is normal and part of the healing process. Drinking plenty of water is necessary as muscles release toxins following Bowen. Regular gentle movement like walking is beneficial and encouraged.
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Why is it recommended that I avoid other body work when having Bowen treatment?To allow your body to respond to Bowen work it is recommended that you avoid other body work for five days following a Bowen session. Your body will continue to respond to Bowen treatment for five to ten days unless an injury, heat or other bodywork interrupts the process.
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Can I exercise after a Bowen session?On the day of your treatment it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise and to only do light gentle exercise. Avoid using heat and ice and self-massage following Bowen.
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How long has the Bowen Technique been in use?Thomas Ambrose Bowen (1916-1982) began developing his technique in the 1950s in Geelong Australia, motivated by finding ways to alleviate human suffering. Noticing that certain moves on the body had certain effects he progressed his technique without ever having formal medical training. Tom frequently stated his work was “a gift from God” and continued to refine his technique throughout his life. Tom was aided and his work was documented by his secretary Rene Horwood. After meeting Tom at a national health conference in Adelaide in 1974 Ossie Rentsch studied his technique. In 1976 he and his wife Elaine began utilising Tom’s methods in their clinic in Victoria. Honouring Tom’s request to teach the technique after his death, Ossie and Elaine named it The Bowen Technique®. They founded the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia in 1987, eventually naming the technique Bowtech® - The Bowen Technique. The technique has become widely used across the world. For more information about the Bowen Technique, visit: www.nzbowentherapy.org.nz
Bowen Therapy Testimonials
“Bowen therapy is one of the most effective treatments I’ve received for a debilitating back injury. After being in so much pain I could barely walk I could feel the difference after one session with Janine. Prior to treatment she talked me through the process, prepared me for what I could experience, and ensured I was informed and comfortable throughout. She explained that session numbers vary from to person to person. After only a few sessions with Janine, I was running again.”
Pia Steiner - 2023
“For more than 20 years I regularly sought treatment through various traditional and complementary healing practices for a neck injury sustained while dancing. After my first Bowen session with Janine I felt a release of tension and discomfort within days. After my second session I realised that years of buried and managed pain were being released and my neck and shoulders were moving back into a neutral alignment. A couple of months on, migraines and daily headaches have ceased to be a part of my life. I would highly recommend Janine if you are seeking relief from chronic pain and discomfort.”
Jane Booth, Pilates Reiki Therapist - 2022
“Having tolerated increasing hip pain, exacerbated by a bursa, which made walking up and incline or stairs doubly painful, my pilates instructor suggested I try Bowen Therapy and recommended Janine. After two appointments the pain lessened considerably and virtually disappeared after another session.
I am eternally grateful to find non-invasive and painless treatment at the professional hands of Janine. Her ability to listen and work with me has meant greater physical flexibility overall, and much improved sleep.”
JV - 2022
Bowen Therapy Case Study
"As a fitness enthusiast - particularly for golf and jogging, with a background in army training and harsh fitness activities I believed the only cure for a trip and fall while running was to tough it out.
After six months of physiotherapy with little improvement I had an x-ray which resulted in a diagnosis of a fractured shoulder requiring surgery. The healing process was slow, and I was concerned that I would not regain my former strength and ability until I heard about Janine and Bowen Therapy.
I was welcomed into the private peaceful setting where she practices. The session began with Janine taking careful note of my symptoms and then applying very gentle tweak-like touches. After each gentle touch she left me to relax before continuing to the next stage.
The change to my shoulder has been profound. Full function has returned, and shoulder reconstruction surgery was avoided.
I recently returned and received treatment for a relapse of RSV – a debilitating respiratory virus. Once more Janine’s gentle and knowledgeable touch left me feeling up-beat and dovetails into my doctor’s recommendation.
Communication, explanation of the Bowen process and listening to feedback lies at the heart of Janine’s practice and Bowen Therapy will remain part of my fitness and wellbeing regime from now on.”
RW - 2020
