Tom Bowen and "Bowen Technique" in the UK
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Tom Bowen and the “Bowen Technique”
The Australian therapist Tom Bowen did not practice or teach the “Bowen Technique”. He allowed a small number of men to observe him for various lengths of time, and one of them, Ossie Rentsch, taught a simplified interpretation of the work after observing Bowen for a year or so, which has become known internationally as “The Bowen Technique”. I initially trained in this approach (as does almost everyone), but am much more influenced by the work of another of these observers, Romney Smeeton (who was a chiropractor), and how Graham Pennington has developed what he learned from Romney. Romney observed Tom Bowen in clinic every week for 6 years – the longest of any of his apprentices – and Graham has been working with Romney for about 20 years (but not every week!). I have assisted Graham during his UK teaching tours. The primary physical goal of this simple, sophisticated work is to address imbalances associated with the pelvis, spine and skull, with the aim of restoring healthy spinal function and resolving structural issues that may be compromising the Central Nervous System. It then addresses any peripheral restrictions that still remain. |
Tom Bowen
Romney Smeeton and Graham Pennington
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How I Use “Tom’s Work”
The two sources of "Tom’s work" (as Romney always refers to it) were classical osteopathy and acupuncture/shiatsu (Japanese bodywork). Encouraged by Romney, I have taken the knowledge and skill gained from my shiatsu and tui na (Chinese bodywork) training and folded it inside what I do. This means my work won't look exactly like the "Bowen" that you may have had in the past. I don’t diagnose or treat medical conditions, however I do use assessment to target the primary causes of structural dysfunction. There is no set treatment pathway to ‘cure’ you of (e.g.) your frozen shoulder, but I do work with the fact that your arm has restricted movement and try to help change that. |
"Minimalism is a virtue only when it is a choice." Stephanie Land
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What Can This Work Help With?
Bowen does not treat medical conditions. However, I have had good experiences improving quality of life for many people, including those with:
Bowen does not treat medical conditions. However, I have had good experiences improving quality of life for many people, including those with:
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General Muscular-Skeletal Issues
Ankle pain Ankle instability (frequently twisted ankle) Back pain after a lower limb break General back pain (lower and upper) Caesarian Section Scars Coccyx pain Flat feet Heel/Sole of foot Shoulder tension, pain and mobility issues Hypermobility Jaw issues Morton's Neuroma Restricted neck movement Postural imbalance Sports injuries Knee pain Shin splints Elbow problems Shoulder issues from open water swimming Neck problems, including whiplash |
Neurological Issues
Restless leg Sciatic pain Post Stroke recovery Hormonal Issues Menopausal hot flushes Stress Other Asthma Digestive issues Lymphatic drainage for hayfever Migraines Tension headaches Please contact me if you wish to discuss whether working together might benefit you. |
