The Bowen Technique: A Gentle Path to Healing by Lele Soranzo

Bowen Techique is gentle and relaxing

A Personal Discovery

I first encountered the Bowen Technique by chance—or perhaps destiny—while travelling in Australia. I was browsing in a shop when a woman dropped some leaflets at the counter. Out of curiosity, I picked one up. It described something called the “Bowen Technique,” a new method for wellbeing that involved light touch, was gentle, and safe for all ages.

The description immediately intrigued me. Once back in the UK, I searched for a local practitioner and booked a few sessions for a nagging but mild backache. I was amazed by the experience: the treatment was incredibly gentle and relaxing—I fell asleep during each session—and the results were lasting. My back improved significantly, and I also noticed positive changes in my energy levels and general mood.

What truly impressed me was how Bowen seemed to work not just on the physical body but also on the emotional and energetic systems. I was sold. Soon after, I enrolled in a professional diploma course taught by an exceptional teacher whose years of experience added depth and clarity to the training. That was over 15 years ago, and I’ve been practising the Bowen Technique ever since, still convinced of its incredible value as a holistic therapy.

What Is the Bowen Technique?

The Bowen Technique is a dynamic system of muscle and connective tissue therapy developed by the late Tom Bowen in Geelong, Australia. It’s often referred to as the "homeopathy of bodywork" because it uses subtle, precise movements to stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Unlike many hands-on therapies, Bowen does not involve manipulation or force. Instead, the practitioner makes gentle rolling movements (known as Bowen moves) over specific points on the body. These signals are picked up by the nervous system, prompting the body to respond and rebalance in its own time.

How Does It Work?

One of Bowen's primary effects is to help reset the autonomic nervous system (ANS)—the part of our nervous system responsible for rest, relaxation, and repair. In today’s high-stress world, many people live in a constant state of “fight or flight,” which can hinder healing and contribute to chronic issues.

By calming the ANS, Bowen allows the body to shift into a restorative state where it can begin to heal more effectively.

There are also several other theories about how the Bowen Technique may work, including:

• Stimulating the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds every organ and muscle and can store physical and emotional trauma

• Activating the stretch reflex and joint proprioceptors

• Influencing acupuncture points and meridians (without needles)

• Supporting the lymphatic and detoxification systems

• Enhancing the body’s own energy field

What to Expect During a Session

Bowen sessions typically last between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the client’s needs. Treatments are performed with the client lying comfortably on a massage table, usually in light clothing or underwear.

The session begins with gentle moves on the lower back and legs, followed by the upper back and neck. The practitioner may also include specific moves to address issues such as pelvic misalignment, jaw tension (TMJ), or thoracic imbalances.

One unique aspect of Bowen is the intentional pauses between each set of moves—usually around two minutes. These pauses allow the body to process the information and respond. Clients often report a deep sense of relaxation during these breaks, and many even fall asleep.

Who Can Benefit from Bowen?

Because it is so gentle and non-invasive, the Bowen Technique is considered safe for people of all ages—from newborns to the elderly.

It can be especially beneficial for those experiencing:

• Back pain and sciatica

• Digestive and bowel issues

• Migraines and headaches

• Earache and TMJ dysfunction

• Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue

• Neck and shoulder pain

• Pelvic imbalance and groin pain

• Respiratory problems and hay fever

• Sports injuries and trauma recovery

• Menstrual and hormonal irregularities

• Joint issues: hips, knees, ankles, feet

A Holistic Therapy for Modern Times

With over 15 years of experience as a Bowen practitioner, I have (Lele) seen firsthand the powerful effects this technique can have—not only on physical ailments but on mental and emotional wellbeing too. In today’s fast-paced, stress-filled world, Bowen offers a much-needed opportunity to pause, reset, and heal from the inside out.

Ready to Try Bowen Therapy?

If you’re curious about how Bowen could support your health, I invite you to book a session at Waterloo Body Station. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, stress, fatigue, or simply want to improve your wellbeing, this gentle and profound therapy could make a real difference.