You may be wondering what is the difference between Massage and Bowen Therapy? There are many differences between Massage and Bowen Therapy, but I will outline the most obvious ones here.
Typically, Massage is a hands-on technique which utilises long strokes in the direction of muscle fibres, whereas Bowen Therapy uses short rolling moves across the body of muscle fibres.
In Bowen Therapy, the direction of the moves and the pressure used can vary and there are short pauses in between groups of moves to give the body time to adjust and respond before continuing to the next group of moves. The Bowen practitioner usually leaves the room or steps away from the client during these pauses. Think of it as a hands-on, hands-off technique.
In Massage, there are usually no pauses with the Massage Therapist in constant touch with the client’s body for the duration of the session.
The Massage Therapist intentionally seeks tension and trigger points within muscles and then applies various massage methods and stretches to try and release them. On the other hand, the Bowen Therapist applies light, rolling moves over specific areas on the body, not necessarily at the point of pain or tension, and then allows the body to let go of tension patterns in various areas within its own time.
Massage Therapy generally involves the removal of clothing and the use of massage oils on the skin to allow for smooth glide over the skin. Most of the Bowen moves can be done through clothing and doesn’t require the use of oils. There are occasions where certain Bowen moves are better performed directly on skin. In these cases, you may be asked to remove some clothing and material such as a sarong will be used to cover the area and other the part of the body required to be exposed (for example, the shoulder).
Both Massage and Bowen Therapy are very relaxing and have many benefits. If you would like to know more about Bowen Therapy, or unsure whether Bowen Therapy is the right treatment for you, then give me a call and I can answer any of your questions.