What to Expect in a Session
Before the Session
- I offer a specialised service, so if you are worried about your general health or think you have a medical condition you should see your primary healthcare provider first (this is good practice for everyone, it is the law for children). I do not diagnose medical conditions. If you have an acute infectious illness (e.g. COVID-19, flu), please stay at home. My COVID risk assessment is linked for your convenience.
- I can normally do Bowen with you clothed (a single layer of loose fitting natural fabric works best. Please don't wear anything which would make it hard to work through such as tight jeans or lycra). If taking shoes on and off is not straightforward, you can often keep them on for the treatment. For ScarWork I will need to work directly on the scar itself. Please avoid tight clothes as this will interfere with the treatment. Avoid eating a heavy meal or drinking alcohol before your session.
- Cancellation policy. You can reschedule or cancel your session free of charge up to 24 hours before the appointment time. Late cancellation or rescheduling (i.e. less than 24 hours notice) will be charged unless I can fill the time slot with a last minute booking.
During the Session
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After The Session
- I suggest that you normally avoid other physical treatments for about a week either side of your session, especially chiropractic or osteopathy. There is no problem with exercise (whether from a physio or just normal exercise), talking therapies, nutrition, or herbal medicines. Ask me during the session if you have any doubts.
- Walk, Don't Sit: Go for a gentle 15 minute walk after the session to walk it in. Walking helps your nervous system review the changes that are happening as a result of the work. Light exercise is excellent, but avoid heavy training for at least 24 hours afterwards. Do your absolute best not to sit for long periods of time for the 24 hours after a session, especially immediately after treatment.
- Water. Drink more water than normal: sometimes people get a bit dehydrated after treatment.
- Reactions. It’s not unusual to feel a bit knocked out afterwards. People also experience "ghost injuries" (where old injuries come back to haunt you for a while), headaches, feelings of hot/cold and emotional releases. These should not last more than a few days and are usually encouraging signs of change. Avoid using ice to manage pain.
- Rest. For Bowen, avoid physical strain for 24 hours. For ScarWork and BoneWork, three days is better. We have created often profound changes in how your body relates to gravity. You need to give it a chance to adapt.
- How Many Sessions? Bowen sessions should be spaced 5-10 days apart, ideally a week. It's impossible to predict, but an initial series of 3-6 sessions is enough for many people. You should leave a gap of 3-4 weeks before doing ScarWork and BoneWork in the same area (it's fine to work on other areas before that).
- Maintain and Prevent. For people with complex, multiple or chronic issues, those who re-injure themselves through lifestyle or activity, and people managing chronic pain, a more regular, ongoing maintenance session every month can be helpful. Others choose to come every 2-3 months or so, regardless of how they feel, just to prevent issues building up. ScarWork is generally does not need maintenance, though in some cases ongoing work (especially with BoneWork) can be valuable.