Bowen Therapy

Instruction Manual

Jonathan
Jonathan Damonte
Damonte RSHom
RSHom (NA),
(NA), CCH
CCH , ­
, ­C
CBT
BT

Modules 1 & 2
 Produced for
“The School of Bowen”
Copyright© shoolofbowen 2018

website: www.schoolofbowen.com
e-mail: info@schoolofbowen.com

The captions and art work in this publication are based upon material supplied. While
every effort has been made to ensure their accuracy,
The School of Bowen does not under any circumstances
accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

All Material published are for reference and discussion purposes only.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Sincere acknowledgement is made to all those dedicated Bowen Therapy practitioners,

artists and art graphics designers worldwide
who have assisted in the creation of this manual.
Especially to Tom Bowen and his family for their continued support for this official
BOWEN THERAPY TRAINING & INSTRUCTION MANUAL©

2 Copyright © schoolofbowen
 Bowen Therapy

Manual 1
by

Jonathan Damonte
RSHom (NA), CCH, CBT

Endorsed by the family of Tom Bowen

Special thanks to

Barry A. Bowen

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

About
In producing these manuals I have attempted to better represent the methods taught to me by my
teacher Oswald Rentsch the founder of the Bowen Therapy Academy of Australia. The methodology was
presented as Tom Bowen’s and this manual does not discuss the many and varied branches of Bowen
Therapy methods now taught around the world and as such these manuals do not try to incorporate all
those varieties nor do they claim to be the one presumptive method. They simply better present the
method that I learned and use in my own practice and teaching.

I’ve been involved with Bowen Therapy since 1997 after my first Bowen
Therapy treatment. The treatment was effective for a hip misalignment
suffered since a fall from a great height. I’d tried so many other thera-
pies that this was astounding to feel such a change in the symptoms
so easily. I was also most fortunate to train with Ossie Rentsch, a long
time student of the founder of the therapy, Tom Bowen, and his wife
Elaine Rentsch who both came annually to Canada to teach. It was Ossie
that fully resolved my hip injury and it’s also Ossie Rentch’s style of
Bowen Therapy that influenced me thereafter.

In 1999, I founded the first Bowen Therapy centred clinic, the Be Well
Now Centre for Pain & Chronic Disease in Toronto, Canada. Most treat-
ment plans start with Bowen Therapy as it is a reliable “first line” ther-
apy that helps to address he primary issues of pain, immobility and
inflammation using first Bowen Therapy creates an opening to further
address the deeper causes and the reasons behind a client inability to Jonathan Damonte - 2010
recover.

In 2001 I founded Bowen Canada to help further develop the therapy throughout the Canada.
After many requests for video training from teachers and students I decided to make his training and
materials available online. Results have shown that online training has proven to be as effective as
one-on-one training. Further, it provides a platform for students to practice and review. The video les-
sons are an ideal enhancement to the live classes.

In 2010 I met with Tom Bowen’s son Barry the eldest of three children. It was his encouragement and
support that gave me the confidence to continue and develop the online training. It’s been Barry’s wish
that Bowen therapists could be under one umbrella organization.

4 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

INDEX
Page MODULE 1 Page

Introduction 6 BASIC RELAXATION MOVE 1 - Lower Back 20

Tom Bowen 6 BASIC RELAXATION MOVE 2 - Upper Back 26
What is Bowen Therapy 8 BASIC RELAXATION MOVE 3 - Neck 30
Pain & Inflammation 8 BACK CRAMP 34
Misalignment 9 HEADACHE PROCEDURE 35
Stuck Patterns 9 SHOULDER PROCEDURE 36
Bowen Therapy Moves 10
Pauses 11 MODULE 2
Comparisons 12
Information for Clients 13 KNEE PROCEDURE 44
Case Management 14 PATELLA RELEASE 49
Case Taking 14 RESPIRATORY PROCEDURE 50
Preparation 15 RESPIRATORY & GALL BLADDER 54
Helping A Patient Rise 16 HIATAL HERNIA 57
After Bowen Therapy 17 KIDNEY PROCEDURE 58
Understanding A Bowen Move 18 PELVIC PROCEDURE 60
Points to Remember 19 SACRAL PROCEDURE 64
HAMSTRINGS PROCEDURE 67
HAMSTRINGS & KNEE 71
GLOSSARY OF TERMS 72

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Introduction Common Conditions Treated by

Developed in Australia by the late Tom Bowen (1916-
Bowen Therapy
1982). The therapy was named Bowen Therapy after
Below is a sample of the conditions commonly treat-
Mr. Bowen’s passing. It is a system of moves that
challenges structures to release congestion or blocks
ed by Bowen Therapists .
and stimulate the body’s natural flow and form. It
relieves pain and inflammation, and is an overall
tonic to the body’s innate ability to heal itself. It has
effects on nerve, muscle and connective tissue
Musculoskeletal
including fascia, collagen and the skeletal system. It • Back Herniation
provides lasting relief from pain and misalignment • Stenosis
in the simplest and most effective manner and • Scoliosis
because it is gentle the positive changes are longer • Pelvic Floor Misalignment
lasting than other therapies. Most clients say it is • Arthritic Pain
the most effective, long lasting and relaxing treat- • Fibromyalgia
ment they have ever experienced. • Frozen Shoulder
• Tendonitis
Bowen Therapy is safe for everyone, from newborns
to the aged and is safe to use for both acute and
chronic conditions. Bowen Therapy relieves the Neurological
body’s reactive patterns to injury, pain and mis-
alignment through a series of relaxing and gentle • Sciatica
moves on specific points on the body. The treat- • Migraine
ment is relaxing and light, usually performed • TMJ Syndrome
through clothing, making it a simple to receive • Trigeminal Neuralgia
therapy for those in severe pain or in a state of • Neuropathy
immobility. Further, it is easy for the practitioner to • Restless Leg Syndrome
provide to clients large and small. • Raynauds Syndrome

An important aspect of Bowen Therapy are ‘pauses’

of time that are given between sets of therapeutic
Functional
moves during a treatment session. It is this ‘pause’
• Insomnia
of time that enables the body the time to fully
• IBS
respond.
• Asthma
• Colicky Baby Syndrome
​ • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

6 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Tom Bowen tions for their services. Eventually they moved into
a retired doctor’s clinic at 99 Latrobe Terrace and
began to run their clinic full time.
In his lifetime and beyond, made an incredible
impact on humanity around the world after he
Typically Tom would treat up to sixty-five people
developed this unique therapeutic system now prac-
per day in the clinic and then they would go off to
ticed in more than 40 countries. The results achieved
do the home visits. On more than one occasion,
seem to be miraculous, children learning to walk
when Tom asked Rene not to close their book so
again after being crippled and in braces, lifelong
they could see how many they could treat, it was in
health issues resolved and many a client saved from
excess of 100 per day, children were always treated
the surgeon’s knife. After serving in World War II,
for free. In 1973, when Tom was interviewed for reg-
Mr. Bowen became interested in new ways of allevi-
istration, which was later declined, he indicated that
ating human suffering. He noticed that when he
he was treating around 250 people per week.
made certain moves on a body, it had particular
effects. Mr. Bowen developed and refined the effec-
Tom’s own granddaughter suffered from a disability
tiveness of his observations without training in any
and died at an early age. In her memory, Tom ran a
particular health care field to guide him he always
free clinic for children with disabilities, twice a
stated that the therapy was simply a ‘Gift from God’.
month on Saturday mornings. Under his and Rene’s
care and guidance, many children had an improved
Tom and his longtime friend Rene Horwood started
quality of life. From asthmatics to disabled children,
out working from her house at 100 Autumn Street,
Tom devoted his life to the children, who often called
Geelong West, in 1957. Originally, this was in the
him ‘Uncle Tom’.
evenings after they had both finished work. (Tom
worked at the cement works and Rene had her own
He was known for attending the Geelong jail on
hairdressing salon). They would often work into the
many a Sunday morning to treat injured inmates. He
early hours of the morning, often treating clients for
assisted the Victoria police, treating them at all
free. Sometimes they would work right through the
hours of the day and night. He was acknowledged
night, traveling to make house calls to sick children,
for this work by being made an honorary member of
then go back to their respective homes and get
the Geelong Crime Car squad, he was only the sec-
ready for the next day’s work. They worked like this
ond member of the public to be given such an
for many years before they started to accept dona-
award. The list goes on of all the achievements that
Tom and Rene attained together, from TV personali-
ties and opera singers to a Melbourne Cup race-
horse, he treated them all with amazing results.

Many people came to observe his clinic and the

therapy he’d continue to develop. He acknowledged
six men to have a good understanding of his work.
The six he affectionately called his ‘boys’ were:
Keith Davis, Kevin Neave, Nigel Love (deceased),
Oswald Rentsch, Romney Smeeton and Kevin Ryan.
Romney and Kevin Ryan carried on Tom’s work with
the free children’s clinic for another 12 years after
Tom’s death in 1982.

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What Is Bowen Therapy Pain & Inflammation

In a simple description of Bowen Therapy it's just an Trauma is trapped in the nerves; not the soft tissue.
efficient, easy to recieve form of bodywork. What
sets it apart isn't necessarily the way its done but Consider that most disease is either inflammation in
the way it works. It's profound effects are not process or is caused by the body’s own inflamma-
imposed on the body but rather produced by undo- tory response to any potential causative factor. In
ing the pattern of protection and accommodation acute disease it is well known that reducing inflam-
the body is holding. mation will moderate pain. In chronic disease the
same is true but the ongoing cause must be
Perhaps, Bowen Therapy is an 'un-therapy' as it addressed at the same time. Bowen Therapy is a
undoes, rewinds and resets the body freeing it to complete anti-inflammatory therapeutic influence.
simply heal. It changes the paradigm of inflammatory reaction in
both acute and chronic disease. The effect of Bowen
It is difficult to fully explain how Bowen Therapy Therapy on the body is to trick it into ‘letting-go’ its
affects the wide variety of physical structural com- stuck patterns of inflammatory reaction. So, if we
plaints and functional syndromes without first are addressing conditions such as, allergies and
understanding the complex manner each condition asthma or a slipped disk and sciatica the effective
became a problem in the first place. reaction is the same. It is to reduce the inflamma-
tory process and switch the body’s protective
response to that of healing and recuperation. Spasm
and inflammation, normally healthy responses
immediately after an injury, too often remain long
after and become the problem itself.

The human body heals when it is in a parasympa-

thetic state, relaxed nervous system state, and
remains inflamed in its sympathetic state. That
Bowen Therapy immediately relaxes and de-flames
spasm and reduces swelling indicates its benefit to
switch the body from a sympathetic to a parasym-
pathetic state of nervous system function. Most cli-
ents experience a deep sense of relaxation during
and after their treatments. Bowen Therapy wholly
affects the autonomic nervous system, the system
responsible for stress reactions such as the ‘fight or
flight’ reaction, as well as the recovery responses of
the body.

When Bowen helps reduce the ‘stress-oriented’ dom-

inance of the sympathetic part of the autonomic
nervous system, muscle tension decreases, neuro-
logical hypersensitivity is reduced and the feedback
loops that control acute pain responses in the body
are interrupted. At the same time this is happening,
the parasympathetic portion is reciprocally restored,
increasing blood and lymph flow, feeding starved

8 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

tissue and reducing inflammation. Bowen Therapy

allows for the dynamic integration of the central
Misalignment
and peripheral autonomic nervous system and its
The effectiveness of Bowen Therapy does not stop at
effect on other systems of self-regulation such as,
reducing pain and inflammation it also affects
respiration, digestion, elimination and endocrine
through positive feedback structural misalignments.
function is also positively affected.
Most Bowen Therapy moves are in areas where pro-
prioreceptors, spindle cells and golgi tendon organs
abound. Bowen Therapy helps the body remember it
needs to heal through its stimulation of the propri-
oreceptors, the sensory neurons the body uses for
proper movement, balance and sensation. The mes-
sages sent to the nervous system through the Bowen
Therapy moves remind the body to regain normal
movement and articulation in joints, muscles, and
tendons. It is in this context that change takes place
in the musculoskeletal and visceral systems.

Stuck Patterns
Traditional Chinese Medicine considers good health
to be a state of energy balance and free energy flow
within the body. It assumes that pain and illness are
caused by imbalances or blockages in the free flow
of energy. What often happens is that problems
accumulate causing congestion and our self-healing
process becomes overloaded. Bowen Therapy sim-
ply reminds the body to re-visit problems that
haven’t been fully resolved and have been accom-
modated to in a response to injury and dysfunction.
At the same time the Bowen Therapy effects the
congestion of energy within the system.

Clients can feel shifts in their bodies during and

after Bowen Therapy treatment session while their
autonomic system comes back into balance. Bowen
Therapy is a process that enables the body to regu-
late itself, and through this process, many symp-
toms of pain, misalignment and dysfunction disap-
pear. Many of these dysfunctions were in the first
place a product of the complex and original block-
ages existing in the body after, illness, injury and
stress. The state of reaction became ‘stuck’ and Bowen
Therapy is perhaps the most efficient form of treat-
ment for these states of ‘stuckness’ as it literally tricks
the responses in nerve, muscle and joints to simply
‘let-go’. It is like unsettling the sand on the ocean floor
and letting it settle back to it’s once perfect structure.

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Bowen Therapy Moves

Are simple and always involve the following pro-
cess:

Skin is borrowed to an edge of the structure such as,

a muscle, tendon, ligament, fascia or nerve, with the
thumb or fingers. The available loose skin slack is
gently pulled or pushed in the opposite direction of
the intended ‘Bowen Therapy Move’. This is done
without ever sliding on the skin.

The structure being worked on is always challenged

to create tension into it and to further define its
greatest palpable mass, this is usually with gentle
pressure in the same direction as the intended
move. Finally, fingers or thumbs push or pull the
skin through the tissue to release it into the skin
slack that was moved at first.

The pressure of the move varies according to many

factors such as, the strength and tone of the struc-
ture being worked on, the clients condition and the
sensation of sending a clear signal into the struc-
ture being worked on.

Think of a stringed instrument as an example - and

think of playing a note whether low or high, loud or
quiet, sharp or resonant, and you can understand
that a variety of ‘notes’ are available.

The human body is the same as an instrument and

the therapist learns to play the right Bowen Therapy
‘notes’ into it.

10 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Pauses
A pause of time after a Bowen Therapy move is also
varied and can be applied in variation also. Think
how long a note can carry after the string on a gui-
tar is plucked, the pause after the move is the time
needed to carry the note through the structure
being worked to its completion. The treatment is
harmonious to the condition being treated and the
response observed during the session.

Although individual moves used in isolation will

produce positive effects, the fullest benefit of Bowen
Therapy is harnessed through a series of integrated
Bowen Therapy Moves performed in precise loca-
tions and sequences. The quantity of moves varies
according to the symptoms of the client. Usually the
greater the number of symptoms presented and the
longer and more complex the clients history. Or, the
more severe the acute injury each necessitate less
Bowen Therapy treatment at that time.

Bowen Therapy is unique in bodywork modalities as

it is systematic in procedure. In fact, most Bowen
Therapists would target a clients basic symptoms in
the same manner at their first few treatments, later
Bowen Therapy treatment options depend on the
effectiveness of the treatments prior and so these
become more unique to each client and therapist. It
is such a reliable treatment that clients and practi-
tioners have a clear expectation as to the outcome
for it. If the chosen protocol is not effective or not
long-lasting this simply identifies what would be the
next step. Its effectiveness is so reliable that it can
be an excellent diagnostic tool to differentiate
causes when used to address distinct systems.

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Comparisons and positive affects on the emotional causes and

blockages within a person. These emotional
causes can have a serious consequence to a per-
Bowen Therapy stimulates the body to heal itself
sons healing and it is necessary to resolve them.
with minimal intervention in contrast to other forms
Bowen Therapy is not used to intentionally affect
of bodywork where the therapist imposes the body’s
these blockages but simply reminds the body to
healing mechanisms through the bodywork provid-
not hold or remain stuck in patterns of emo-
ed. What makes Bowen Therapy so unique is that its
tional responses. Any emotional release from by
benefit is long lasting and simple to attain, it is the
Bowen Therapy will occur only when the client is
simplest bodywork system and yet has a large scope
naturally ready, the process feels gentle and natural
of use. Bowen Therapy is often described as being
for them.
unlike any other form of bodywork by pointing out
the differences. There are many more similarities
than actual differences, in describing Bowen Therapy
to a potential client or interested person their natu-
ral understanding of it would be to reference it to a
therapy they already have a concept of.

For example:

Like MASSAGE Bowen Therapy involves, relaxation

and physical touch but the Bowen Therapy treat-
ment is interspersed by pauses and the actual
‘hands on’ input from the therapist is minimal in
comparison.

Like ACUPRESSURE and ACUPUNCTURE some of

the areas of focus will coincide with acupuncture
points and known meridians the Bowen Therapy
treatments decongest blockages or stagnation in
energy flow even more efficiently.

Like CHIROPRACTIC and OSTEOPATHY the body’s

skeletal structure is profoundly affected through
Bowen Therapy and joints will correct their
alignment without forceful manipulation and
long-term treatment plans.

Like PHYSIOTHERAPY the body’s neuro-muscular

system is effectively re-trained but more impor-
tantly the old patterns of dysfunction are
removed first. The best preface to physiotherapy
after injury or surgery would be Bowen Therapy to
reduce the inflammatory responses before re-
education of muscle groups.

Like EMOTIONAL RELEASE and SOMATIC

BODYWORK, Bowen Therapy will have profound

12 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Information For Clients overall health and function to utilize the benefit
with regular and infrequent follow-ups.

Other bodywork therapies recently performed before

Bowen Therapy affects multiple systems in the body
and especially after a Bowen Therapy session may
including the musculoskeletal, nervous system,
interfere with its effectiveness and it’s logical for
endocrine system, digestive, reproductive and elim-
the client to use Bowen Therapy alone for a time to
inatory systems. It will also strongly affect the emo-
gauge how well it helps their problems and how they
tional state of an individual and it is important to
respond to it overall. Most clients have no difficulty
factor all these systems and how each progresses as
in taking a few weeks off other therapies to try
part of the overall treatment plan.
something new when it promises to effectively fix
their problem.
Conditions that have taken a long time to develop
may take repetition to reinforce the body’s healthy
state of alignment, healthy function or repair pro-
cesses.

Bowen Therapy restores patterns of normal function

with even one treatment session, three to five ses-
sions being a usual initial treatment protocol. Don’t
feel disheartened the first time your Bowen Therapist
asks to take a few weeks off from the treatment as
this is an important time when changes after Bowen
Therapy are fully integrated by your body through
normal muscle and tendons toning and strengthen-
ing.

The healing process stimulated by the Bowen

Therapy treatment has its own momentum of change
taking place physiologically and it is important for
you, the client, and the therapist to know how far
that momentum takes your body in a positive direc-
tion of healing.

For example, schedule 3 weekly visits in a row to

evaluate the effectiveness of Bowen Therapy and to
provide feedback for how many future sessions
might be needed and at what pace or interval they
can be. If all is going well book 2 future sessions 4
weeks after as space between treatments is vital to
allow the patients vitality to fulfill its best effort at
restoring and maintaining wellness after these first
few treatments. Wait until the effect of the Bowen
Therapy plateaus before progressing to the next
level of treatment. Continue to schedule appoint-
ments and always return for ‘Tune-Ups’ as needed.
Though Bowen Therapy is often a short treatment
protocol of very few sessions, it is important for

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Case Management Case Taking Using S.O.A.P. Format

Firstly, ensure that each client is under the care of a Subjective, Objective, Assessment & Plan is a stan-
primary health care provider. Do not diagnose, dard written format for taking a clear and profes-
change medications prescribed by other medical sional case.
professionals and do not assume to treat any condi-
tion. The role of the Bowen Therapist is to simply Subjective, are symptoms as described by
perform remedial and therapeutic services for the the client in their own words.
purposes of pain relief and for improving mobility
and function. Although Bowen Therapy has remark- Objective, are the symptoms observed
able benefits for many conditions some of which and measured by the therapist.
aren’t normally treatable it is no substitute for ongo-
ing medical supervision. Assessment, is the analysis, consider-
ations and prognosis for the client.
However, if a primary health care provider is using
Bowen Therapy in their practice and is treating the Plan, refers to the treatment protocol pro-
clients complete pathology then Bowen Therapy is vided and any observations during it.
perhaps the best place to start in treating most
chronic diseases, as it will provide immediate relief Keeping detailed records of every aspect of the
to many of the secondary or referred symptoms of interaction between you and the client is essential.
pain and inflammation relating to the clients pri- Write down all information including, instructions
mary health concerns. It will result in much better given, observations during and after from the cli-
quality of life for the client and enable them to fol- ents feedback.
low the lifestyle choices necessary for their ongoing
health. It will also illuminate the primary health
issues as these secondary symptoms are relieved.

A detailed health history questionnaire followed by

exhaustive discussion provide the essential infor-
mation necessary for understanding and following
the nuances of each clients case, these details pro-
vide clues as to the original causes of their symp-
toms and dysfunction that have developed over
time. Also, the case notes provide the ultimate mea-
sure of each clients progress at each follow-up
Bowen Therapy session.

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Preparation condition by doing more therapies on top of the

Bowen Therapy treatment.

Preparing the client for treatment involves inform-

f) Schedule follow-up appointments between 5 and
ing them of the proceeding therapeutic process they are
10 days apart, if treating the client in an ongoing
about to experience. It needs to be clearly stated what
manner, as the body requires time to integrate the
constitutes a Bowen Therapy treatment at each session.
effects of the Bowen Therapy treatment. If treating
a clients acute condition and they experience clear
a) Bowen Therapy moves are performed in sets and
relief but the benefit is short lived it is acceptable to
the goal of each Bowen Therapy move is always to
repeat the therapy as needed and before the above
place challenge into the structure and the chal-
mentioned 5 to 10 days.
lenge puts a specific tension into it. This tension is
then a released via the Bowen Therapy move.
g) Avoid heat or cold applications to an area being
treated with Bowen Therapy, as these are another
b) Pauses of time given between these sets of Bowen
therapeutic influence that might interfere with the
Therapy moves are essential to allow an effective
response after Bowen Therapy. If the client abso-
response within the area being worked on and all
lutely needs either hot or cold to function then they
the structures within it including, nerve, fascia,
should use them in that case only, simply try to
muscle, tendon, ligament and organ systems.
have them avoid it.

c) Comfort for the client is of paramount impor-

h) Exercise and any strong physical exertion are fac-
tance, as they will benefit most by being fully
tors that may reduce the effectiveness of the Bowen
relaxed during their session. Use any means and any
Therapy sessions. Avoid strenuous exercise during
position to achieve and support their position of
the initial course of treatment and especially exer-
maximum comfort.
tion to areas of concern as ‘muscle memory’ can
take over the body’s response to Bowen Therapy
d) First visits are essentially a test of the clients
treatment and positive changes in the client could
response to Bowen Therapy and it is vital to guard
be voided. Walking is the best form of activity after
against any possible ‘flare-ups’ or aggravations of
Bowen Therapy as it allows the body to gently and
their symptoms. Always consider that doing more
symmetrically mobilize, stretch and strengthen,
than necessary is too much and doing less is always
itself into alignment. Once the Bowen Therapy treat-
best because the treatment is not about what you,
ments are improving levels of pain, inflammation
the therapist, puts into the client or does to them, it
and overall form and function of the body, it is time
is about how the client reacts to the Bowen Therapy
to start to recuperate and rehabilitate muscle tone,
treatment. If too much is done then the clients sys-
joint mobility and to exert beyond the guarded lim-
tem may be overwhelmed and their responses will
its of activity held prior to treatment.
likely shut down.

i­ ) Contraindications do exist for some Bowen Therapy

e) Other physical therapies than Bowen Therapy
Procedures. These include, the Coccyx Procedure in
should be avoided during the period of time the cli-
pregnancy as it may stimulate a spontaneous abor-
ent receives their first few Bowen Therapy treat-
tion. Chest Procedure on an individual with breast
ments as it is necessary to clearly determine how
cancer as it might cause potential metastasis.
they respond and how well the benefit holds, and
Otherwise, Bowen Therapy is absolutely safe, gentle
how many more sessions are likely necessary. If
and comfortable to receive. Always ensure the client
other therapies are introduced it can cloud this pic-
has received a competent medical diagnosis when-
ture and make decisions on how to proceed uncer-
ever there is doubt about the cause for any of their
tain. It is also a potential risk to aggravate a clients
symptoms.

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

j) Fluids are an essential part of the Bowen Therapy

treatment. The client will need to increase their
Helping the Patient Rise
fluid intake, often this will be a natural craving, as
Usually this is done from a supine position and the
the body will be eliminating the by-products of
aim is to aid the client to rise comfortably and sym-
inflammation and congestion after treatments, it’s
metrically, as per the clients ability to flex at their
important to keep the body flushing itself efficiently.
waist, if they cannot they must turn onto their side
before sitting up. It is appropriate to place your
hand on the upper thoracic region of the patient’s
back and ask the client to help lift him or herself to
sit upright, then ask the patient to help swing his or
her legs around to sit at the edge of the treatment
table.

Very importantly, always ask the client if they are

light headed or dizzy. If the answer is yes, let him or
her sit for 30 seconds and then ask again. If they are
still light headed or dizzy to any degree have the
client lay down in a ‘Recovery Position’ (foetal posi-
tion) and cover them for approximately ten more
minutes. The client is likely still feeling the effects
of the session and will need to lay and process these
effects before rising otherwise this process gets put
off till later.

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by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

After Bowen Therapy Treatment Have the client remember to stand up and move if
they have been sitting or driving for long periods so
as to avoid a return of old muscle patterns on the
WALKING - is usually the perfect activity as it
day of treatment, this is important for clients with
will help the body maintain its physical sym-
low back problems. Also, have the client not do
metry and restore muscle tone to areas that
other therapeutic bodywork during their treatment
have been under used.
period.

WATER - the client needs to increase their water

The next session is best scheduled between five and
intake for the next few days to help hydrate tis-
ten days later. However, if a client suffers a new
sues and to aid detoxification.
injury or relapses, schedule to see them again as
soon as possible.
WAIT - it’s important to allow enough time for
the Bowen Therapy session to fulfill its fullest
effects and for the clients body to fully respond.

It’s sometimes necessary to wait longer than 1 week

between sessions. This is to allow the positive
effects to solidify before treating further. When in
doubt about your clients progress, waiting is essen-
tial as only time will make clear the direction the
client is moving toward. This is especially true when
there is an aggravation after the session. Wait, as
there is often an amelioration after this initial
aggravation. If you treat them too soon there is the
chance that the treatment might prolong this aggra-
vation rather than give the relief you hope for.

Scheduling tentative follow-ups is a good practice as

it allows for a more flexible treatment schedule
according to the clients needs. Be in constant con-
tact with your clients when they are experiencing
any aggravation after treatment and if symptoms
persist beyond a day or two, advise them to consult
their doctor further to calm any fears they might
have

It is also important to remember that other thera-

pies might also interfere with the progress and so
advising the client that changes in their symptoms
is a positive reaction and that the process and reac-
tion will not last too long.

The client after Bowen Therapy needs time and

space for:

‘REST, RECOVERY & RECUPERATION’.

Copyright © schoolofbowen 17
 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Understanding A Bowen Therapy Move

Bowen Therapy moves are usually performed on
the left side of the body first unless otherwise
instructed. The left side of the body is negative
and the right side positive. Moves made in a medi-
al direction are relaxing and Moves made laterally
are stimulating. The moves should not be repeat-
ed more than twice per procedure as repetition
can affect the response by over-stimulating and
causing a contractive muscle reaction. Bowen
Therapy moves are performed on the clients exhala-
tion, skin slack is drawn or pushed on exhalation
and the actual move is made on any following exha-
lation the general tempo for each of the moves is
slow, relaxed and comfortable for maximum benefit.

Picture 1 Picture 2

Picture 1 shows the basic Bowen Therapy move in Picture 2 shows the basic Bowen Therapy move in
which the thumbs start, with secure contact on the which the 2nd fingers of both hands treat the oppo-
skin at a point defined by the crest, or ‘belly’ of the site side of the clients spine start, secure contact on
muscle. On exhalation, skin slack is drawn laterally, the skin at a point defined by the crest, or ‘belly’ of
without sliding on it, to the lateral edge, or as close the muscle. On exhalation, skin slack is pushed lat-
to it as skin allows, of the muscle being worked on. erally, without sliding on it, to the lateral edge, or as
The thumbs then sink behind the lateral edge of the close to it as skin allows, of the muscle being worked
muscle and gentle challenge is engaged in a medial on. The 2nd fingers then hook to sink behind the
direction to put tension into the muscle body. On lateral edge of the muscle and gentle challenge is
exhalation, the thumbs move medially through and engaged in a medial direction to put tension into the
over the ‘belly’ of the muscle releasing the tension muscle body. On exhalation, the 2nd fingers move
in muscle created by the challenge. The wrists turn medially through and over the ‘belly’ of the muscle
over the muscle being worked on slightly to allow releasing the tension in muscle created by the chal-
the muscles release. lenge. The fingertips open at the close of the move
or the wrists drop to allow the muscle to release.

18 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Points to Remember The Instruction Manual

a) Palpate Is divided into procedures and each Bowen Therapy
b) Contact treatment session will be unique according to the
c) Slack needs of the client. The procedures are taught in
d) Depth sequence to accommodate the most commonly per-
e) Challenge formed procedures first.
f) Release
The descriptions for the procedures are written in
a) ‘Palpate’ the muscle, tendon or other structure to medical language and therefore provide the most
determine where are its edges, usually laterally and accurate descriptions for landmarking and direc-
medially. tion. The manual is best accompanied by an accu-
rate anatomy book for reference while studying the
b) ‘Contact’ the surface of the skin where the ‘crest’ procedures.
or ‘belly’ of the muscle to position the thumbs or
fingers before moving the skin slack to the muscle’s Fingers and thumbs that are described to perform
edge. moves are named 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th with the 1st
finger being the thumb. Therefore, the index finger
c) ‘Slack’ is the available moveable skin taken to the is the 2nd, the middle finger is the 3rd, the ring fin-
muscle’s edge. The fingers and thumbs never slide ger is the 4th and the little finger is the 5th.
on the skin when drawing or pushing skin over the
structure and there is no more pressure applied
than is necessary to move the skin. Video Instruction Online
d) ‘Depth’ the fingers or thumbs sink to define the Viceo lessons are available online at www.bowen-
muscles edge after the skin is taken to its border. online.com There are 3 subscription levels and the
‘Sinking into the muscle edge’ means penetrating lessons include Modules 1-4. These provide an
past the skin surface to the edge of muscle or ten- invaluable tool for any student of Bowen Therapy.
don structure to define it.
Monthly
e) ‘Challenge’ the muscle puts tension into the mus- Suitable for those working in the health profession
cle body in the direction of the move. This is always and want to add new skills to your repertoire?
comfortable pressure. The degree of challenge var- Learn the foundation of Bowen therapy and a group
ies according to the tone of the muscle or structure. of procedures to simply treat the related chronic
health conditions.
f) ‘Release’ comes from moving through the struc-
ture of muscle or tendon where the tension created Annual
by the ‘challenge’ is released. Think of playing a If you are wanting a new career in a growing health
stringed instrument. The ‘move’ happens in one profession?
direction, with varying pressure according to the Learn the foundation of Bowen therapy through
tone of the structure as the fingers and thumbs are Modules 1-8 online and complete the first step to
pulled or pushed over it. It is like driving on a road becoming a Certified Bowen Therapist™.
and going over a speed bump, the depth of the fin-
gers or thumbs varies according to the shape of the
structure being moved over, there is no need to let
up as you go through it.

Copyright © schoolofbowen 19
BASIC RELAXATION MOVE 1
(BRM 1) - Lower Back Procedure
Start a Bowen Therapy session in the lower part of
the body, and in the lumbar region, before moving to
the upper body if that is also required.

The client should be positioned so that they are lay-

ing prone and as comfortably as possible with their
head either in a face-cradle or turned to one side.
Place a bolster or pillow under one shoulder if need-
ed to reduce neck tension when lying with head to
one side. Place a pillow or bolster under their ankles
to reduce tension in their lower limbs. This proce-
dure can also be performed with client lying supine,
useful in treating the elderly and those in acute pain
that is aggravated by lying prone. Or, on their side
with pillows to support their posture and the proce-
1 2
dure can also be performed whilst sitting. That the
client is relaxed and comfortable is fundamental to
the treatments overall effectiveness.
3 4
Clothing can be worn during the procedure though
it is most useful to view the sacral area and gluteal
fold to determine any inflammation or misalign-
ment that can guide your choice for future proce- 5a 7a

dures.
6 8
Ensure you have communicated clearly the nature
of the treatment you are about to perform.

For example: “Bowen Therapy involves gentle chal- 5 7

lenge made against muscles and tendons and the

‘Bowen Move’ releases the tension put into the area
being worked on. Moves like these are done in sets
and between sets are important pauses to allow the
area worked on to fully respond.” Ensure the client
is completely comfortable before taking the first
required minimum pause.

20 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 1
Challenge and release the left erector spinae and BRM 1 - SUMMARY
transversospinalis medially (transversospinalis lies
Moves 1 & 2 - Medial moves over the left (1) then right
deeper to the erector spinae) using the palmar
(2) Erector spinae at a level 1 finger-width superior to
aspect of both thumbs.
the Iliac crest.

The move is made with hands pronated and sup- Moves 3 & 4 - Medial moves over the left (3) then right
ported on the clients back. The fingers are extended, (4) Gluteus medius at a level 2 finger-widths superior to
both thumbs are touching tip-to-tip and the palmar the Gluteal fold and 2/3 lateral on the Gluteus maximus.
aspects are placed approximately one finger above
PAUSE (2 min)
the level of the iliac crest on the patients left erector
spinae and transversospinalis. Draw the skin later-
Move 5 (a) & 5 - Hold the left musculo-tendonous
ally with both thumbs, without sliding on the skin
insertion of the Biceps femoris and Semitendonosus
surface, and allow the thumbs to sink comfortably insertions with the left hand. Move medially the fibers of
beside the lateral margin of the left erector spinae the long head of the Biceps femoris 3 finger-widths
and transversospinalis. Apply gentle pressure medi- superior to the crease of the knee with the right hand
ally with the thumbs and hold for an exhalation thumb.
from the patient, while maintaining equal pressure
Move 6 - Move the left Ilio-tibial tract posteriorly at a
and depth, move over and through the erector spi-
point midway between the greater Trochantor and the
nae and transversospinalis.
crease of the knee.

Move 7 (a) & 7 - Hold the right musculo-tendonous

insertion of the Biceps femoris and Semitendonosus
Erector spinae insertions with the right hand. Move medially the fibres
Transversospinalis
of the long head of the Biceps femoris 3 finger-widths
superior to the crease of the knee with the left hand
Gluteus medius
thumb.
& maximus

Move 8 - Move the right Ilio-tibial tract posteriorly at a

point midway between the greater Trochantor and the
crease of the knee.
Biceps femoris
& Semitendonosus
PAUSE (2 min)
Ilio-tibial tract

Moves 9 & 10 - Medial moves over the left (9) then

right (10) Gluteus medius as per Moves (3) & (4), check-
ing for change in muscle tension.
Long Head of
Biceps femoris at
the Popliteal fossa Moves 11 & 12 - Move antero-medially over the left
(11) then right (10) Vastus laterallis just superior to the
patella.

PAUSE (2 min)

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Note: Each muscle or muscle group worked on Draw only the skin laterally over the lateral border
should respond to the move. A ‘Bowen Move’ is not a of gluteus maximus and the gluteus medius below;
‘massage’ of the muscle or a ‘pressure-point’ chal- apply firm pressure antero-medially to create chal-
lenge. The ‘Bowen Move’ should resonate through the lenge onto the lateral edge of the gluteus medius.
tissues during and after being worked on. It is a sig- Move the thumbs postero-medially over and through
nal sent into the nervous system and other tissues the lateral edge of gluteus medius.
including muscle fibre, fascia and even adipose tis-
sue. In performing this move effectively the postero-lat-
eral drawing of sufficient skin slack is vital. Use
Move 2 even challenge before releasing the tension created
Move the right erector spinae and transversospina- by using the weight of arms and shoulders to direct
lis medially using the palmar aspect of either the the thumbs.
2nd or 3rd fingers of both hands. Rest the hands on
the back of the client and push skin laterally to the Move 4
lateral border of the right erector spinae and trans- Stand on the right side of the body and make a
versospinalis. Allow the palmar aspect of the fin- move as described for Move (3). Move the right glu-
gers to define the lateral border and then apply teus maximus edge postero-medially to affect a
gentle challenge medially to the muscles, wait for challenge and a release of the gluteus medius below.
an exhalation, while maintaining equal pressure,
move the fingers medially over and through the Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
erector spinae and transversospinalis as possible.
Move 5 & 5a
Move 3 Move the left short head of biceps femoris whilst
Move the left gluteus maximus edge postero-medi- simultaneously applying pressure on the long head
ally to affect a challenge and a release of the gluteus of biceps femoris (5a) ‘holding point’.
medius below.
The ‘holding point’ (5a) is produced by positioning
The move is made by placing the palmar aspect of the palmar aspects of the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingers of
both thumbs onto a midpoint on the superior edge the left hand onto the musculo-tendonous fibers of
of gluteus maximus. This point is landmarked the left biceps femoris and semitendinosus inferior
between the top of the iliac crest and the greater to the ischial tuberosity at a midpoint on the gluteal
trochantor at a point approximately 2/3 lateral to crease. Then apply comfortable anterior challenge
the spine and 1/3 medial to the posterior ilium. to both tendons.

3 9

5a

22 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 7 & 7a
Move (5) is landmarked by placing the palmar aspect Stand at the right side. Move the right short head of
of the right hands thumb onto the fibres of the short biceps femoris whilst applying pressure on the long
head of the left biceps femoris, medial and adjacent head of biceps femoris (7a). See description of
to the left biceps femoris tendon approximately 3 Moves (5) & (5a) ‘holding point’, above, using the
finger-widths above the popliteal crease. Point the reverse hands to perform the moves.
thumb laterally. Move 8
Move the midpoint of the right vastus lateralis and
Draw skin laterally with the right thumb to the ilio-tibial band posteriorly as described for Move (6).
medial aspect of the biceps femoris tendon. Apply
pressure onto the deeper muscle fibers of the short Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
head of the biceps femoris. While maintaining pres-
sure flick or strum the fibers of biceps femoris. Move 9
There will usually be a reflex response felt in the Repeat Move (3) on left gluteus maximus & gluteus medi-
‘holding point’ (5a) when the move is made correctly us. This is done as a form of assessment of any change in
that feels like a tiny pulse. muscle tone that should have been achieved to this point.
Muscle that was too flaccid should feel toned and muscle
Move 6 that was too tonic is also better toned.
Move the tendonous band of the left vastus lateralis
and the ilio-tibial band posteriorly. Move 10
Repeat Move (4) on right gluteus maximus & gluteus
At a point mid-way between the greater trochantor medius.Moves (9) & (10) are the same as Moves (3)
and the popliteal crease place the palmar aspect of & (4) and are performed with less intent, they are an
assessment of the change in muscle tone and a con-
both thumbs so that they rest on vastus lateralis firmation of the effectiveness of the treatment so far.
over the ilio-tibial band at a point approximately
midway from the posterior and anterior of the left Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
thigh. Draw the available skin slack anteriorly and
apply gentle pressure posteriorly to the anterior
border of the ilio-tibial band to define its anterior
border. Then move posteriorly over the defined
edge with gentle pressure to release the anterior
edge of the left ilio-tibial band.

10

7a
4

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Note: Once the client is lying supine Moves (11)

Outline of left Patella useful to determine the
& (12) are performed. The client only needs to insertion of Vastus laterallis tendon.
turn once in a treatment session. If other proce-
dures are performed while the client lays prone
they are finished before completing BRM 1 with
Moves (11) & (12).

Moves 11 & 12 - ‘Hit the Lat’

The left Vastus lateralis is moved antero-medially 11 'Hit-the-Lat'
using the palmar aspect of both thumbs, followed
by the right Vastus lateralis.
Note: The Moves 11 & 12 of (BRM 1) are part of
the Knee and Pelvic Procedures, learned later in
Place the palmar aspect of both thumbs tip-to-tip on
Module 2, and can be applied more than once
the vastus lateralis tendon, proximal to its insertion
during any treatment session. This procedure is
into the patella. Draw skin slack posteriorly over the
known as ‘Hit the Lat’ as it is performed multi-
vastus lateralis tendon to its postero-lateral border;
ple times in a session if performing multiple
apply consistent challenge to the posterior border
procedures.
of the vastus lateralis as the thumbs move antero-
medially. The move is made slowly by turning the Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
wrists over the limb and letting the thumbs be
pulled by this motion, the challenge and move are Moves 1 & 2 of BRM 1 are considered as 'Lower
performed slowly until the vastus lateralis tendon is Stoppers' a line that segments the upper and
released from the tension created. lower body. Moves 1 & 2 of BRM 2 are 'Upper
Stoppers'. Use the 'Stoppers' if working in only
1 area of the body.

Right Vastus Right Patella

lateralis tendon

12

24 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Copyright © schoolofbowen 25
BASIC RELAXATION MOVE 2
(BRM 2) - Upper Back Procedure
Minimum Prerequisite
NONE. When performing both BRM 1 & BRM 2 always
begin with BRM 1.

Move 1
Stand at the client’s left side to move the left erector
spinalis thoracis medially. Spinalis thoracis is the
medial continuation of erector spinae and lies medial
to and blends with longismsus thoracis in its lower
part.

Position both hands pronated with fingers extend-

ed, the palmar aspect of both thumbs laying tip-to-
tip on the crest of the left erector spinalis thoracis
1 finger-width below the level of the inferior angle
BRM 2 - SUMMARY of the scapulae.

Moves 1 & 2 - Medial moves over the left (1) then right
Pull skin laterally over the left erector spinalis tho-
(2) Erector spinae at a level 1 finger-width inferior to the
inferior angle of the scapulae. racis on exhalation and without sliding to the lateral
border of the left spinalis thoracis. Sink the thumbs
Moves 3 & 4 - Medial moves over the left (3) then right beside the lateral border of the left spinalis thoracis
(4) Erector spinae at a level 1 finger-width superior to
the inferior angle of the scapulae.

PAUSE

Moves 5 & 6 - With the thumb pad placed 1/3 from the
top of the scapula take move supero-medially and then
supero-laterally in a boomerang pattern (5). Stop at the
medial border of the scapula. Draw skin slack inferiorly
with your spare hands finger as you lift the thumb pad
off the skin. Replace the thumb and angle the challenge
obliquely and move supero-laterally over the Rhomboideus
minimus and Levator scapula (6).

Moves 7 & 8 - Repeat moves (5) & (6). 6 8

PAUSE 5 7

Moves 8 (a) & 8 (b) - Optional if the shoulders are 3 4

tight perform 2 posterior moves over the tendonous
fibres of Latissimus dorsi superior to the inferior angle of 1 2
the scapula and level with the back of the arm.
15 16
PAUSE 13 14

Moves 9 - 16 - 4 pairs of ascending moves between 11 12

Moves (1) & (2) of BRM 1 and Moves (1) & (2) of BRM 9 10
2. The pairs of moves alternate in each direction and the
thumbs perform all the moves away from you and the
fingers perform all the moves towards you.
1 2

PAUSE

26 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

apply gentle pressure medially to its lateral border Moves 5 & 6

to create challenge. Wait for an exhalation and move Made over left trapezius, rhomboideus major, rhom-
over and through medially while maintaining the boideus minor and levator scapulae in a boomerang
same comfortable depth and pressure to lightly or shallow semi-circle. Move (5) affects the deeper
release the tension created. muscles including: rhomboideus major, longissimus
thoracis and iliocostalis lumborum and Move (6)
Move 2 affects rhomboideus minor and levator scapulae.
Move over the right erector spinalis thoracis medi-
ally as in Move (1) but using the palmar aspect of Position the palmar aspect of the left hands thumb
both hands 2nd fingers. adjacent to the medial border of the left scapular
and at a point one-third below the superior border
Move 3 of the scapula, measured between the inferior angle
Move over the left erector spinalis thoracis medially and the superior border. (This can also be land-
as in Move (1) with the palmar aspects of both marked by defining a point one finger-width inferior
thumb on a line 1 finger-width above the level of the to the spine of the scapula).
inferior angle of the scapulae.
To have the best hand position for these moves it is
Move 4 best to rest the back of the 2nd & 3rd fingers gently
Move the right erector spinalis thoracis medially as on trapezius, to support you're hand during the
in Move (2) with the palmar aspect of both hands
move, and place the palmar aspect of the right hands
2nd fingers on a line one finger-width above the
2nd finger tip-to-tip with the left hands thumb.
level of the inferior angle of the scapulae.

Push the available skin slack inferiorly along the

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause medial border of the left scapula to its limit. Apply
gentle challenge supero-medially with the thumb
only. Move the thumb pad over and through rhom-
boideus major and the deeper iliocostalis muscles
to the limit the skin allows without sliding. While
maintaining depth and challenge adjust the angle of
the thumb to move supero-laterally to the medial
angle of the scapula, stop.

Elevate the thumb pad slightly and pull the excess

skin-slack, that has bunched superior to the scapula,
from the trapezius inferiorly. Replace the thumb in
its last position and challenge anteriorly. Turn the
wrist supero-anteriorly over the trapezius whilst
challenging rhomboideus minor and levator scapu-
lae antero-laterally with the palmar aspect or tip of
the thumb. The rhomboideus minor and specifically
the levator scapulae are challenged and released as
the thumb moves supero-laterally adjacent to the
medial angle of the scapula.

Moves 7 & 8
As per Moves (5) & (6), Moves (7) & (8) are performed
over the right trapezius, rhomboideus major, rhom-
Lower Stoppers
boideus minor and levator scapula in a boomerang
or shallow semi-circle.

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause Note: Angle the challenge supero-medially. The
palmar aspect of both thumbs can aslo be used
Note: It is easiest to stand on the left side of the to perform the move. Another way to landmark
client to perform these moves but if preferred it the starting point is to divide the 2 points
is acceptable to stand on the right side to per- between the inferior angle of the scapula and
form Moves (7) & (8). the axilla.

Optional Moves Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

If there is little response in the rhomboideus major,
rhomboideus minor or levator scapular. Or, if these
muscles are particularly tense ‘Optional Moves’ (8a) &
(8b) can be applied followed by a minimum 2 minute
Latissimus dorsi
pause and an optional repetition of Moves (1 - 8)
with no obligatory pause between Moves (4) & (5).

Moves 8a & 8b
Place the palmar aspect of the fingers of the left
hand on the belly of the latissimus dorsi at a level
approximately 1 finger-width superior to the inferi-
8b
or angle of the scapula and midway between the
inferior angle of the scapula and triceps tendon.
Push the skin with the proximal finger joints anteri-
orly till the fingertips reach the anterior border of
the latissimus dorsi, challenge latissimus dorsi pos-
teriorly and move posteriorly releasing the chal-
lenge to latissimus dorsi as the move is made.

Levator scapulae Rhomboideus minor Trapezius

6 8

5 7

1 2

3 4 8b
15 16
1 2
13 14

11 12
Latissimus dorsi 9 10

1 2

28 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Moves 9 to 16
Stand on the left side. All the moves away from the E.g. If the focus of the client’s problem is in the
therapist are performed using the thumbs pushing neck it is important to have an idea of section-
away and all the moves towards the therapist are ing the effects of the treatment to that area
performed with the fingers pulling towards. The to maximize the benefit to it. Bowen Therapy
direction of the moves alternates after each pair is can be powerful in its effect on the manner the
performed. body has dealt with the problems and where it
has built defense that protective state can be
Note: The medial moves are relaxing and the pulled apart and can leave the area in more
lateral moves are stimulating to the system. pain for a short time. It is as if the body will
re-visit how it has dealt with the problem in
The moves are performed using the palmar aspect the first place. It can feel as if the problem
of both hands fingers and thumbs and consist of 4 re-occurred to the patient and can be quite
pairs of moves over the left and right erector spinae alarming. It is for this reason we focus an area
and are positioned equidistant and superiorly to of treatment to the area of concern and using
Moves (1) & (2) of BRM 1 and inferiorly to Moves (1) the concept of 'Stoppers' will keep these poten-
& (2) of BRM 2. tially strong reactions comfortable and man-
ageable for the client.

Moves 9 & 10
Medial. (Thumbs - Fingers)
Moves 11 & 12
Lateral. (Fingers - Thumbs)
Moves 13 & 14
Medial. (Thumbs - Fingers)
Moves 15 & 16
Lateral. (Fingers - Thumbs)

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

The purpose of a "Stopper' is to segment the

body into parts and thereby section off an
area being worked on and importantly to sec-
tion off the effects of the work. In the begin-
ning of treatment with Bowen Therapy the
effect desired is to influence specific areas of
the body in an orchestrated manner and this is
important as the overall benefit of these first
procedures is a resetting of the body's blue-
print. It is a re-boot of the way it has accom-
modated itself for all the old injuries, diseases
and stresses of life. To achieve the most effect
it is best to have a focus of influence to an
area.

Copyright © schoolofbowen 29
BASIC RELAXATION MOVE 3
(BRM 3) - Neck Procedure
Minimum Prerequisite
NONE. In a full session first perform BRM 2

BRM 3 - SUMMARY
This procedure is usually performed standing at the
Moves 1 & 2 - Anterior moves made with the thumb pads
clients head while they lay supine. It can also be over the left (1) then right (2) posterior Scalenus at the
performed while the client sits upright. side of the neck and anterior to the Trapezius.

Moves 3 & 4 - Medial moves made with the tip of the 3rd
fingers and over the left (3) then right (4) tendonous
insertions of the Trapezius adjacent to the underside of
the occipital ridge.

PAUSE

Moves 5 & 6 - Medial moves over the left & right

Trapezius and Transversospinalis with the palmar aspects
of the 3rd fingers at a level mid way between the ear
lobe and the top of the shoulders.

PAUSE

Moves 7 & 8 - Repeat Moves 5 & 6 if there is noticeable

tension when performing them.

30 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 1
Made over left scalenus posterior and scalenus
medius anteriorly using the palmar aspect of left
thumb.

Place the palmar aspect of the left thumb tip ante-

rior to trapezius and on the posterior border of
scalenus posterior. Apply comfortable challenge
medially onto the neck and guide the movement of
the thumb anteriorly with the opposite hand over
the posterior and mid scalenus muscles.

Ensure comfortable challenge is applied medially

onto the scalenus muscles throughout the move. A
3rd finger can be used when the client is sitting. The
scalenus muscles are thin and there is little feed-
back felt performing the procedure.

Move 2
As per Move (1). Move anteriorly over the on the
right scalenus posterior using the palmar aspect of
right thumb.

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Moves 3 & 4
Medial moves over the superior occipital insertion
of the trapezius and semispinalis capitis lateral and
inferior to the occipital protuberance at the superior
nuchal line.

The moves are performed using the tip of the 3rd

finger of each hand.

To landmark, position the palmar aspects of both

3rd fingers onto the occipital protuberance, move
the fingers inferiorly to the underside of the occipi-
tal ridge and laterally to the lateral border of the left
and right trapezius insertions.

Draw skin laterally and engage medium challenge

anteriorly with the tip of the 3rd finger on the left
side (3). The medial move is firm and short over and
through the fibers of both insertions of trapezius
and semispinalis capitis. The muscle edges moved
are very small, the size of a neuro-vascular bundle.
The pressure is medium to firm to provide adequate
challenge. Repeat on the right (4).

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

3 4

3 4

5 6

1 2
5 6

32 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Moves 5 & 6
Place the palmar aspect of both 3rd fingers onto
both the left and right trapezius muscles at the level
of the 2nd cervical vertebrae so they are positioned
on the belly of each trapezius, transversospinalis
and semispinalis capitis which lies deeper.
Semispinalis capitis can be palpated by moving skin
laterally and medially over it.

Draw skin laterally without sliding over the left tra-

pezius, define the lateral border of the left semispi-
nalis capitis and place consistent medial challenge
onto its lateral border with the palmar aspect of the
3rd finger. Move medially and rotate the 3rd finger,
wrists and shoulder, while challenging until the
muscles release fully.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

Optional Moves 7 & 8

Repeat Moves (5) & (6) if more tension is noted in
one side or the other. These can be performed
1 finger-width superiorly to Moves (5) & (6).

Alternately, a repeat of Moves (1 - 6) can be applied

if there is significant need.

Copyright © schoolofbowen 33
BACK SPASM PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
NONE

In the case of a sudden cramping or spasm any-

where in their back during a Bowen Therapy session
the following procedure can be used to alleviate the
spasm immediately. It is also useful for a client with
generally hyper tonic (taut) back muscles.

Note: In cases of chronic upper back spasms as a

result of injury such as, whiplash or disk degenera-
tion, this procedure can be applied as a ‘stand-
alone’ treatment preceding or following BRM 2 with
a greater than 2 minute pause provided following. It
can also be combined with other procedures as indi-
cated by the client’s symptoms.

Procedure
With the client either lying prone or sitting comfort-
ably perform Moves (15) & (16) with Moves (8a) &
(8b) of BRM 2.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

A longer pause is advised if using this, or any, pro-

cedure for a chronic issue.

8a 8b 8a 8b

15 16
15 16

34 Copyright © schoolofbowen
HEADACHE PROCEDURE Moves 4
While still holding the positions of Moves (3) posi-
Minimum Prerequisite
tion the palmar aspect onto the forehead at the
NONE
hairline and on either side of the 'Widow's Peak'.
Gently challenge and let go of Moves (3). Repeat
Moves (1 - 4) as often as is appropriate.

With the client lying supine stand at their head and Moves 5
prepare them by stating you will be gently touching
near their eyes with fingertips.
Step 1 - Sweep the brow from the midline to
The Headache procedure is performed bilaterally the temples starting at the brow then mid-brow
and by applying gentle pressure onto a series of and finally the forehead using the palmar
overlapping points held for a 'couple of seconds' aspect of both thumbs simultaneously.
each.
Step 2 - With heels of the thumbs apply gentle
Moves 1 pressure for several seconds to the temples
Place the palmar aspect of each hand's 5th fingers just posterior to position (1).
into a hollow on the cranial skull one finger-width Step 3 - Sweep the heels of the thumbs to the
lateral to the eyebrow. Gently compress the skin
slightly posterior to the orbital bone. curve of the jaw over the parotid gland.
Step 4 - Traction the neck superiorly with one
Moves 2 hand holding the underside of the occiput and
While still holding the positions of Moves (1) reach the palm of the other hand applying gentle
the palmar aspect of the 3rd fingers onto either side
of the root of the nose superior to the tear duct. pressure on the forehead inferiorly.
Gently challenge and let go of Moves (1). Step 5 - Rake the fingers through the scalp
from the occiput to the vertex and then the
Moves 3 forehead to vertex 2 times each.
While still holding the positions of Moves (2) posi-
tion the palmar aspect of both 2nd fingers onto a
point superior to the medial aspect of the eyebrows. Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
Gently challenge and let go of Moves (2).

4 4

3 3
3
1 1
2 2
2
1

Copyright © schoolofbowen 35
SHOULDER PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 2 (1 - 8) & BRM 3 (1-6)

It is advisable to assess the overall response of your

client to Bowen Therapy treatments prior to per-
forming this procedure especially in an acute epi-
sode of a long-standing shoulder issue. Conclude
that the procedure is best applied at a later treat-
ment session. Shoulder problems can take many
weeks to resolve even with successful application of
this and other appropriate procedures. The described
warming-up exercises will greatly enhance the
results of this procedure. The tendons around the
joint are easily aggravated and strained therefore it
is important to encourage the client to rest and
recuperate the area of concern to the maximum. As
Shoulder Procedure (Solo) - SUMMARY well as perform the prescribed ‘warming-up’ exer-
cises each day.
With the client sitting, stand at the opposite side to the
shoulder being worked on.
Note: Don’t overtreat the area with more than 2

Cradle the forearm of the side you are working on. Bowen Therapy Shoulder procedures 1 week
Position the forearm horizontally at about mid-chest, apart per month - as time between treatments is
maintaining their elbow at 90˚ and their shoulder open vital to allow the tendons to regenerate and for
from the trunk. calcification and adhesions to resolve.

Move 1 - Anterior move performed with the fingers of

Therefore, it is recommended to perform 2 succes-
the opposite hand over the mid-point of the posterior
sive Bowen Therapy Shoulder procedures followed
deltoid and triceps tendon, which lies deeper to it. The
move is best performed with the thumb of the same by 3 weeks of rest to the shoulder area.
hand resting on the humeral head and whilst adducting
the shoulder joint to its limit. Meanwhile, other Bowen Therapy sessions and pro-
cedures can be scheduled and other procedures
Move 2 - Once the shoulder has fully adducted to the used during this time.
opposite side perform a percussive strike to the humeral
head in the direction of the neck.

Move 3 - Return the arm into the starting position and

perform a supero-lateral move on the anterior deltoid at
it’s mid-point.

Repeat on the opposite side.

PAUSE

36 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

‘The Starting Point’

This procedure is best performed with the aid of an

assistant who cradles and moves the client's arm
and shoulder whilst the therapist performs the pro-
cedure. Using an assistant to perform the procedure
aids the therapist by allowing them to challenge the
muscles and tendons more efficiently than can be
achieved when performing the procedure alone. The
procedure can be modified to suit the therapist in a
number of ways.

The Shoulder procedure is performed with the cli-

ent ideally sitting, though it can be performed with
the client standing or laying on their back. Treat
both shoulders and always treat the better shoulder
first, unless used during sports events where it is
best to treat the injured shoulder first and then the
better shoulder as the pause can be sneaked in this way

and the athlete can resume their sport immediately.

Starting Point Move 2 Position

Copyright © schoolofbowen 37
 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

A. Shoulder Procedure - Therapist & Assistant as described above. Draw skin posteriorly and under
the posterior border of the posterior deltoid and
Move 1 long head of triceps brachii tendon, turn both
The Assistant stands facing the patient and holds thumb-tips under the defined edges of posterior
the their shoulder and arm at the elbow and wrist deltoid and the triceps tendon deeper. With the
with the clients forearm horizontal and at mid-chest thumbnails back-to-back the posterior deltoid and
level. The client's elbow is bent at 90˚ and the triceps tendon are firmly challenged anteriorly, the
shoulder joint open beyond the trunk of the client. therapist can now signal the assistant to begin mov-
The client's shoulder and arm need to be as relaxed ing the arm and shoulder. While the arm is being
as possible. The therapist and assistant communi- moved and when the shoulder is at approximately
cate to the client that their shoulder and arm will be 90˚ to the trunk the tension in the challenged pos-
moved across to their opposite shoulder to stretch terior deltoid and triceps tendon increases notice-
and open the shoulder capsule being worked on. As ably, it is at this point the therapist releases the
the client's shoulder might have limited mobility it challenge anteriorly over the triceps tendon.
is very important they remain relaxed and the assis-
tant and therapist move the shoulder capsule only Move 2
within its movable limit. The client’s arm is moved in a continuous manner
and without pause until it is fully adducted by the
The therapist stands behind the client facing the assistant at this point the therapist strikes the
posterior deltoid. Place the palmar aspect of both humeral head with the ulnar side of their fisted
thumbs onto the posterior deltoid at a point between hand in the direction of the cervical spine of the cli-
the axilla and the head of the humerus and 1 finger- ent. This blow is designed to jolt any adhered tis-
width distal, while the arm is held by the assistant sues within the client's shoulder capsule.

38 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 3
The arm is returned to the ‘starting point’ and the
therapist reaches over the clients shoulder and
places the palmar aspect of 2nd and 3rd fingers of
both hands on a mid-point of the anterior deltoid
adjacent and distal from the coracoid process. Push
skin slack infero-medially to the inferior border of
the anterior deltoid, curl the finger-tips around the
inferior border of the anterior deltoid and apply
slow gentle challenge supero-laterally to the anteri-
or deltoid, move over the anterior deltoid supero-
laterally and release the challenge.

Perform Moves (1 - 3) on the opposite shoulder.

Provide the client with details on the required

exercises and demonstrate these for them each
time they come for treatment. Ensure they wait
till the next day before attempting these as it
important to allow the area worked on to respond
fully before it is exerted.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

1 3

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

B. Shoulder Procedure - Therapist Solo Move 2

The arm is moved in a continuous manner and with-
‘The Starting Point’. The client is sitting either in a out pause until it is fully adducted at this point the
chair or on the treatment table. Stand facing the cli- therapist strikes the humeral head with the ulnar
ent at their opposite thigh to the shoulder being side of their fisted hand in the direction of the cli-
treated. Cradle the client's arm and shoulder by ent’s cervical spine (neck).
cupping their elbow and supporting their forearm
level with the medial side hand. The client's elbow Move 3
is bent at 90˚ and the shoulder joint open beyond The arm is returned to it's ‘starting point’ and the
the trunk of the client. The client's shoulder and therapist rotates, while still cradling the client’s
arm need to be as relaxed as possible. arm, to stand beside the shoulder being treated.
Place the palmar aspect of the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingers
Move 1 onto the mid-point of the anterior deltoid at a point
Use the lateral side hand and lay it on the shoulder adjacent and distal from the coracoid process. Push
so that the thumb is resting on the humeral head skin slack infero-medially to the inferior border of
and the palmar aspect of their 2nd, 3rd and 4th fin- the anterior deltoid, curl the fingertips and apply
gers rest onto the posterior deltoid at a point level slow gentle challenge supero-laterally to the anteri-
between the axilla and the head of the humerus and or deltoid, move over the anterior deltoid supero-
one finger-width distal. Push skin slack posteriorly, laterally and open the fingertips to fully release the
turn the fingertips under the posterior border of challenged muscle.
posterior Deltoid and Triceps tendon. Firmly, apply
anterior challenge to the posterior border of the Perform Moves (1 - 3) on the opposite shoulder.
posterior deltoid and long head of Triceps brachii
tendon before beginning to adduct the client's arm. Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
While the arm is being moved and when the shoul-
der is at approximately 90˚ to the trunk the tension The entire Shoulder procedure can be repeated on
in the challenged posterior deltoid and triceps ten- either arm if necessary to provide an effective
don increases noticeably, it is at this point these release of the muscles worked on. It is common that
muscles are released. the tension is so great as to limit their release.

Posterior Deltoid & Triceps Anterior Deltoid

brachii - long head

3
1

40 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Note: When working on a large client the thera-

pist can stand behind the client with one knee AFTERCARE & EXERCISES
bent in order to rest the client's arm onto it. This
is to free both hands and be able to address the Warming-up exercises for chronic shoulder pain &
client from behind to perform Move (1). If the poor mobility performed daily will greatly improve
client's shoulder is in spasm and cannot be
and hasten the clients recovery process.
worked on easily for Move (3) the arm can be
rested onto the client's lap.
a) Once a day, rotate the shoulder 6 X in a clock-
wise and 6X in a counter-clockwise direction
without strain. If needed the client can bend for-
ward and let the arm hang as the shoulder turns.

b) Once a day, rest the arm onto a surface and

gently walk into the elbow to stretch the poste-
rior deltoid and then gently walk to turn away
from the elbow to stretch the anterior deltoid.
Repeat each direction 6X.

Perform the Shoulder procedure for 2 consecutive

weeks and provide 3 weeks of rest. In other words
treat the shoulder area only once a month.

Rest, recuperate & recover...

a b

Copyright © schoolofbowen 41
42 Copyright © schoolofbowen
 Bowen Therapy

Manual 2
by

Jonathan Damonte
RSHom (NA), CCH, CBT

Endorsed by the family of Tom Bowen

Special thanks to

Barry A. Bowen

Copyright © schoolofbowen 43
KNEE PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 1 (1-10) - Lower Back Procedure
No prerequisite is necessary in the case of acute injury
or for use during activities such as sporting events.

KNEE PROCEDURE - SUMMARY

With the client lying supine stand at the first side being
worked on. Palpate the outline of the patella with the
thumbs and 2nd fingers

Move 1 - Position both thumbs over the Vastus laterlallis

tendon superior and adjacent to the lateral superior
aspect of the patella. Draw skin slack posteriorly over the
tendon, engage challenge behind it and slowly move
antero-medially to release the challenge to it.

Move 2 - With the 2nd finger move supero-medially

over the medial side patella ligaments and Retinaculum.

Move 3 - With the thumb move supero-laterally over

the lateral side patella ligaments and Retinaculum.
Repeat on the opposite side.

PAUSE

Move 4 - With the 2nd & 3rd fingers of both hands

move anteriorly over the mid point of the Vastus medial-
lis muscle approximately 3 fingers superior to the top of With the patient lying supine or sitting comfortably
the patella.
the address the better side first or the left side
Move 5 - With the 3rd finger perform a medial move where no distinction is made.
over the medial Gastrocnemius approximately 2 finger-
widths below the patella crease.
Assess the patella for inflammation and mobility by
Move 6 - With the 3rd finger perform a lateral move
over the laterall Gastrocnemius approximately 2 finger-widths gently rocking it side-to-side (medially and laterally)
below the patella crease. Repeat on the opposite side. then up-and-down (proximally and distally) with the
PAUSE thumbs and 2nd fingers of both hands. To position
the fingers and thumbs to assess the patella, imag-
Move 7’s - With the fingers of both hands positioned
back-to-back tease open the gastroc’s. Beginning 2 fin- ine the patella is a clock face and place both hands
ger-widths below the patella crease and ending at the 2nd fingers and thumbs onto the border of the
lower 1/3 of the Calcaneal tendon.
patella at 2:00, 4:00, 8:00 & 10:00 o'clock (hour
Moves 8, 9 & 10 - With the 3rd finger perform 3 equi- hand).
distant medial moves over the Calcaneal tendon moving
inferiorly after each. Repeat on the opposite side.
Note: If the patella is immobile on one side or the
PAUSE
other a patella release, described below, should be
Moves 11, 12, 13 & 14 - Perform 2 pairs of postero- performed prior to commencing the Knee proce-
medial moves with all fingers of both hands over the
lateral aspects of the Gastroc’s as if to close the muscle dure.
against the opposite hand.

Move 15 - With the tip of the 3rd finger perform an Moves (1 - 4) of the Knee procedure are performed
anterior move over the tendon of the Tibialis tendon at with the therapist facing the lateral aspect of the
a point between the medial Malleolus and the Calcaneal
tendon. Repeat on the opposite side. knee. Moves (5 - 14) are performed sitting at the foot
of the client's flexed knee and facing the anterior of
PAUSE
the knee.

44 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 1
Place the palmar aspect of both thumbs, tip-to-tip,
onto the belly of the vastus lateralis tendon superi-
or and adjacent to the superior lateral margin of the
patella. Draw skin to the postero-lateral border of
vastus lateralis and sink the thumbs against its pos-
terior edge. Engage a gentle challenge antero-medi-
ally to the vastus lateralis tendon and move the
thumbs, hands and wrists, slowly, antero-medially
over it until the tendon releases. For best results
draw or pull the thumbs with the wrists rotating
antero-medially, maintain depth behind the vastus
lateralis tendon. This procedure has the nickname
of ‘Hit the Lat’.

Move 2
Using the palmar aspect of the inferior 2nd finger
placed onto the medial patella retinaculum adjacent
to the medial border of the patella midway between
it and the distal point of the patella. Draw skin infe-
riorly to the distal point of the patella and challenge
onto the medial patella retinaculum and ligamen-
tum patellae, move supero-posteriorly over the reti-
naculum adjacent to the border of the patella whilst
maintaining consistent challenge onto the medial
patella retinaculum. Use a rotation at the wrist to
guide the 2nd fingers challenge, pressure onto the
tibia during the move.

Move 3
Using the palmar aspect of the inferior thumb
placed onto the lateral patella retinaculum adjacent
to the lateral border of the patella midway between 1 ‘Hit the lat’
it and the distal point of the patella. Draw skin infe-
riorly to the distal point of the patella and challenge
onto the lateral patella retinaculum and ligamentum
patellae, move supero-laterally over the retinacu-
lum adjacent to the border of the patella while
2 3
maintaining consistent challenge onto the lateral
patella retinaculum. Use a rotation at the wrist to
guide the thumbs challenge and pressure onto the
tibia during the move.

Note: Perform Moves (1 - 3) on both sides

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Move 4 Move 5
Define a point on Vastus medialis approximately 3 Position the client's knee so that it is flexed to
finger-widths superior to the patella and at a mid- approximately 90˚ and sit at the foot of the client
point between the anterior and posterior of the limb facing the anterior of their knee.
and on its medial side. Using the palmar aspect of
2nd & 3rd fingers of both hands gently push skin With open elbows reach the fingers of both hands to
posteriorly over the belly of vastus medialis and the posterior borders of both gastrocnemius approx-
gently challenge laterally onto vastus medialis and imately 2 finger-widths distal to the bend of the
the Adductor magnus which lies deeper. Move knee joint. Divide the posterior borders of the gas-
through the fibers of vastus intermedius anteriorly. trocnemius muscles with the fingernails of each
There will be a subtle feel of the medial border of hand lying back-to-back. While maintaining the
vastus intermedius releasing through the move. divide with the lateral hand let the medial hand go
and position its 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingerpads onto the
Note, with noticeable tension in the vastus medi- belly of the medial gastrocnemius.
alis, the pelvic procedure should be considered
and performed additionally before proceeding Push skin to the posterior border of the medial gas-
with Moves (5 - 15) of the knee procedure. The trocnemius, with more emphasis on the 3rd finger,
medial edge of the patella is attached to the vastus challenge and engage tension into it antero-medial-
medialis aponeurosis and is an important factor in ly before moving the fingers anteriorly over the
maintaining patella stability. belly of the medial gastrocnemius. The muscle

4
1

2 3

6 5

4
11 12

7’s

13 14

10

15

Left Leg Left Leg (posterior) Left Leg

46 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Client position for Moves (5-15) perform 3 medial moves.

Perform Moves 7 - 10 on the opposite limb.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

Moves 11 - 14
Define 4 points, 2 for each gastrocnemius, approxi-
should release the tension put into by the challenge mately placed 1/3 and 2/3 between the proximal
as the fingers open at the close of this move. and distal ends of each gastrocnemius. Gently posi-
tion the proximal ends of the intermediate phalan-
Move 6 ges of all fingers of both hands onto the belly of
Replace the medial hand and maintain the divide each gastrocnemius at the proximal 1/3. Perform 2
between the posterior borders of the medial and gentle and opposing 'Bowen Moves' with each hand
lateral gastrocnemius. Remove the lateral hand and over the medial gastrocnemius (11), and then the
position the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingers onto the belly of lateral gastrocnemius, closing the braced gastrocne-
the lateral gastrocnemius. Push skin to the posterior mius muscles (12). Perform the same pattern at the
border of the lateral gastrocnemius, with more distal 2/3-point of each gastrocnemius. Close the
emphasis on the 3rd finger, challenge and engage medial gastrocnemius first (13) followed by the lat-
tension into it antero-laterally before moving the eral gastrocnemius (14)..
fingers anteriorly over the belly of the lateral gas-
trocnemius. The muscle should release the tension
put into by the challenge as the fingers open at the
close of this move.

Perform Moves (4 - 6) on the opposite limb.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

Moves 7
With the client's knee flexed to approximately 90˚
face the anterior of their knee. Place the fingers of
both hands onto the same positions as for Moves (5)
& (6). Gently separate from the midline of both gas-
trocnemius muscles and do so while moving distally
from this point to the proximal end of the calcaneus
tendon as each muscle is ‘teased’ open drawing
skin medially and laterally over the fascia between
their posterior borders.

Moves 8 - 10
With the client's knee flexed to approximately 90˚
face the anterior of their knee. Define 3 points on
the calcaneus tendon equally spaced between the
proximal end of the calcaneus tendon and the mal-
leolae. Use the proximal end of the distal phalanx of
the 3rd finger push skin laterally over the belly of
the calcaneus tendon apply medial challenge and

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Move 15
Landmark the neuro-vascular bundle consisting of
AFTERCARE & EXERCISES
the Poterior Tibial tendon, nerve and the Flexor
Sit with the lower limbs hanging freely placing the
Digitorum Longus located 1 finger-width posterior
heels of both hands onto the thigh just superior to
to the medial malleolus and anterior to the calca-
the patella. Gently push the heels forward exerting
neus tendon. Place the palmar aspect of the 3rd
the ligaments at the knee. This can be performed
finger, flex the tip of the 3rd finger posteriorly into
daily 6X for each knee. Add a weight, such as a bag
this point and hook the posterior margin of the neu-
of rice laying on the back of the foot for extra resis-
rovascular bundle. Challenge supero-anteriorly and
tance.
draw the hooked 3rd finger supero-anteriorly
around the medial malleolus.
Use of anti-inflammatory ointments or poultices can
be considered. However, it is best to ascertain the
Perform Moves (11 - 15) on the opposite limb.
effectiveness of the procedure alone before applica-
tions are used.
Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

Right Leg Shown

4

11

13

15

48 Copyright © schoolofbowen
PATELLA RELEASE
Minimum Prerequisite
None

For a patella showing immobility or possible adhe- Move

sions and without obvious inflammation the follow- Gently traction the patella distally to its maximum
ing procedure can be applied: limit and finally shunt the patella beyond this limit
to loosen adhesions within the patella ligaments.
Place the superior thumb at the lateral edge of the Ensuring that the superior hands fingers do not
proximal margin of the patella and the superior slide or slip during the move.
hands 2nd finger onto the medial side of the proxi-
mal margin of the patella. Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

Secure these with the inferior thumb and 2nd finger

resting on top of the superior thumb and 2nd finger.

Copyright © schoolofbowen 49
RESPIRATORY PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 2 - Upper Back

RESPIRATORY - SUMMARY Note: This is one of several procedures performed

both prone and supine. Therefore avoid interrupt-
With the client lying prone stand at their left side and
ing the complete sequence of moves.
bend their left knee, rotate the left hip laterally to its limit
and have them turn their face to the left.
For example: Complete the Kidney procedure or
Move 1 - Position the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingertips of your Moves 1-3 of Hamstring if performing either of
left hand onto the thoracic muscles midway between the
these in addition to Respiratory procedure.
medial border of the scapula and their spine at a point
so that the 2nd finger is level with the inferior angle of
the scapula. Draw skin slack to the spine, challenge and All the moves of the Respiratory procedure are
move laterally towards the scapula. performed at the completion and following the
client's relaxed and unforced exhalations.
Move 2 - As above. Stand on the clients right with the
clients head turned to the right, their right knee bent and
hip rotated laterally. Perform the above procedure from
their right side onto the left side thoracic muscles.

PAUSE

Turn the client supine and stand at their right side.

Holding Point (3a) - Palpate with the left 3rd finger a

point 1-to-2 fingers below the Xyphoid process and apply
comfortable and steady challenge.

Move 3 - Position the palmar aspect of the right thumb

adjacent to the rib cage and pointing towards Holding
Point (3a) approximately midway between it and the tip
of the rib cage. Push skin slack towards the Holding Point
(3a), engage challenge onto the abdomen then on ex-
halation move infero-laterally over the left side rectus
abdominus muscle.

Move 4 - As above except using the pad of the extended

3rd finger to push slack to Holding Point (3a), engage
challenge onto the abdomen then on exhalation move
infero-laterally over the right side rectus abdominus
muscle.

Move 5 - Using the pad of the right hands 3rd finger

push skin up to the Holding Point (3a), engage comfort-
able posterior challenge onto the abdomen and finally on
exhalation move inferiorly over the rectus sheath.

PAUSE

If performing the Respiratory & Gall procedure, proceed

immediately and without pausing.

50 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 1 lenge laterally to the medial border of erector spi-

With the client lying prone, their face turned to the nae thoracis and then on the clients exhalation
left side and their inner thighs lying together. The move laterally over the right erector spinae thoracis
therapist stands on the left side of the client. The and iliocostalis muscles as far as the skin slack
client's left leg is flexed at the knee to 90˚, held at allows while maintaining the depth of challenge
the medial side of client's left leg just superior to applied by the fingers.
the malleolus with the inferior hand. The client's
left femur is rotated laterally until tension of this Move 2
rotation is felt in the right side pelvis. Stand on the client's right side and flex their right
knee to 90˚, rotate their right femur and have the
Stand on left side and place the palmar aspect of client turn their face to the right side. Repeat the
their 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingertips on the iliocostalis above Move (1) with the right hand over the client's
thoracis at a mid-point between the inferior angle of left erector spinae, spinalis thoracis and iliocostalis
the scapula and spine. Draw skin slack medially muscles.
over the right side erector spinae and spinalis tho-
racis to the right side vertebrae with the fingers of Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
the left hand standing upright. Apply medium chal-

1 2

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Turn patient supine to complete the Respiratory rib. On exhalation push skin slack, without sliding,
procedure Moves (3 - 5) while standing on their right supero-medially along the inferior border of the
side. costal margin to the limit of skin slack towards the
(3a) ‘holding point’. Engage challenge onto the fibers
Holding Point 3a of the left rectus abdominus muscle and apply a
The ‘holding point’ (3a) is located by palpating with slightly lesser degree of challenge to the underside
the palmar aspect of the left 3rd finger inferiorly on of the lower ribs and diaphragm with the ulnar side
the sternum, Xyphoid process and Xyphoid cartilage of the thumb. While maintaining the depth of this
to a soft spot inferior to them. Allow this finger to challenge and on a clear exhalation from the client
sink deeply and onto the rectus sheath and epigas- move infero-laterally along the costal margin and
trium below, maintain a gentle and consistent pres- arch, feeling a distinct ‘step’ of the lateral edge of
sure whilst performing Moves (3) & (4). the left rectus abdominus as the thumb pad moves
over it.
Move 3
Rest the right hand's fingers onto the left lateral Move 4
side of the client's waist inferior to the 11th rib. Position the right wrist adjacent to the right side of
Place the palmar aspect of the right thumb pointing the client's waist at approximately the 11th rib.
supero-medially to the ‘holding point’ (3a) and on a Place the palmar aspect of the right hands 3rd finger
midpoint of the left costal margin and arch between pointing supero-medially and on a midpoint of the
the (3a) ‘holding point’ and the tip of the left 11th right costal margin and arch between the (3a) ‘hold-

3a

4 3

52 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

ing point’ and the tip of the right 11th rib. On exha- after the client exhales by moving inferiorly over
lation push skin slack, without sliding, supero- the rectus sheath. It is as though the finger slides
medially along the inferior border of the costal out of the ‘holding point’ (3a).
margin to the limit of skin slack towards (3a) ‘hold-
ing point’. Engage challenge onto the fibers of the Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
right rectus abdominus muscle and apply a lesser
degree of challenge to the lower ribs and diaphragm Unless performing Respiratory & Gall Procedure.
with the radial side of the 3rd finger. While main-
taining the depth of challenge and on a clear exhala-
tion from the client move inferio-laterally along the
costal margin and arch, feeling a distinct release of
the lateral edge of the right rectus abdominus.

Move 5
Place the 3rd finger of the right hand approximately
1” inferior to the (3a) ‘holding point’, remove the left
hand 3rd finger. Using the right hand 3rd finger
push skin slack superiorly and sink the 3rd finger
gently into the (3a) ‘holding point’. This creates a
gentle challenge onto the rectus sheath and is done-
to the tolerance of the client. The move is performed

3a

4 3

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RESPIRATORY
& GALL PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 2 - Upper Back & Respiratory Procedures.

Immediately at the completion of the Respiratory Move 6

procedure and without a pause perform the follow- Replace the left 3rd finger onto the ‘holding point’
ing additional Moves (6 - 8) & ‘holding point’ (3a). (3a) of the Respiratory procedure. Position the right
hand on onto the lateral margin of the Obliquus
externus abdominus at the mid-point between the
tip of the left 11th rib and the left iliac crest. Gently
draw skin slack antero-medially, without sliding,
over the fibers of Obliquus externus abdominus and
the deeper layers of its muscle group to the limit of
available skin slack. Engage a gentle posterior chal-
lenge onto the abdominal wall, while maintaining

RESPIRATORY & GALL PROCEDURE - SUMMARY

With the client lying prone stand at their right side.

Holding Point (3a) - Palpate with the left 3rd finger a

point 1-to-2 fingers below the Xyphoid process and apply
comfortable and steady challenge throughout the proce-
dure.

Move 6 - Position the extended 3rd finger onto the left

side Obliquus externus abdominus midway between the
Illiac crest and the tip of the 11th rib. Draw skin slack
antero-medially, engage posterior challenge and move
latero-posteriorly on exhalation.

Move 7 - Position the radial side of the right hand 2nd

finger onto the right side Obliquus externus abdominus
midway between the Illiac crest and the tip of the 11th
rib. Draw skin slack antero-medially, engage posterior
3a
challenge and move latero-posteriorly on exhalation.

Move 8 - Position the right hand 3rd finger onto a point

midway between the Umbilicus and Holding Point (3a). 8
Push skin slack superiorly, engage comfortable challenge
7 6
posteriorly and move inferiorly.

PAUSE

54 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

the depth of this challenge and with an emphasis on Move 8

the extended 3rd finger while making a move pos- Remove the left hands 3rd finger from the ‘holding
tero-laterally over the abdominal wall and the left point’ (3a). Place the right hands 3rd finger pad
external oblique muscle. pointing superiorly on a mid-point between the
umbilicus and the Xyphoid process on the Linea
Move 7 alba. Push skin slightly superior engage posterior
Position the pronated right hand 3rd finger on a and gentle challenge, move inferiorly over the
mid-point between the tip of the right 11th rib and abdominal wall and the pyloric canal of the stom-
the left iliac crest onto the lateral margin of the ach.
right side Obliquus externus abdominus. Gently
draw skin slack antero-medially, without sliding, Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
over the fibers of Obliquus externus abdominus and
the deeper layers of its muscle group to the limit of
available skin slack. Engage a gentle posterior chal-
lenge onto the abdominal wall, while maintaining
the depth of this challenge and with an emphasis on
the extended 3rd finger making a move postero-
laterally over the abdominal wall and the right
external oblique muscle.

3a

7 6

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

AFTERCARE & EXERCISE

Respiratory Procedure
& Respiratory / Gall Procedure
Note: Use of prescribed medications should not
be reduced without the authority or continued
supervision of the clients prescribing medical
practitioner.

Commonly clients will experience a moderate expec-

toration following the Respiratory procedure.

Asthma patients should be advised to avoid DAIRY

products, animal dander and any other possible air
pollutants that might aggravate their symptoms.

Infants & small children with colic or asthma type

symptoms can be treated by the parents performing
Respiratory procedure Moves (3 - 5) as needed and
should only continue if relief is observed each time
when performing it.

Emotional reactions can happen after Bowen Therapy

and these need to be monitored by a competent
mental health practitioner especially if the client’s
emotional state is affected with a return of old
symptoms and especially if they have received prior
treatment for these symptoms using anti-anxyolitic
medications.

Exercise for the chest wall, diaphragm and respira-

tory system is suggested to support full recovery.

Once a day have the client hug their chest by

wrapping both their arms across their chest and
holding onto their opposite rib cage.

Then squeezes their arms a little more tightly

after each exhalation. Subsequently, upon each
full inhalation their diaphragm and chest are
challenged a little more during each inspiration.
Perform this 6 X.

Dietary factors such as dairy, wheat or sugar that

aggravate symptoms need to be removed by elimi-
nation to relieve their symptoms.

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HIATAL HERNIA PROCEDURE

After treatment including Respiratory procedure

provide the client a 4 - 6 oz glass of room tempera-
ture water:

a) Stand drink the water.

b) Stand client onto their toes, on exhala-
tion have them fall heavily onto their
heels while performing Move (5) of
Respiratory procedure.

This can be repeated at home by drinking the water

in the morning and on an empty stomach should the
need arise.

It is imperative to address good function of the

digestive tract in order to restore proper assimila-
tion of nutrients regardless of any prescribed medi-
cations. In addition to continued Bowen Therapy if
assessment of hypochlorydia is made it is recom-
mended to supplement with Apple Cider Vinegar or
Betaine Hcl.

Apple Cider vinegar taken with each meal and even

after heartburn is often the simplest and least
expensive treatment option.

Or, in cases of hyperchlorydia and where there are

possible lesions to the oesophagus and sphincter.
Supplementing either, Deglycrrhized licorice, Honey
and Ginger or any other calming herbs such as
marshmallow, slippery elm or fenugreek to heal the
stomach lining is going to be imperative. There are
many over the counter herbal formulas for stomach
problems such as you will come across in practice.

Prescription medications are a clear culprit in low

acid levels and malabsorption of nutrients and it is
important to ascertain the possible side effects for
each medication a client is using.

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KIDNEY PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 1 - Lower Back &
BRM 2 - Upper Back procedures

KIDNEY PROCEDURE - SUMMARY spinae and 1-2 fingers superior to this line
Stand on opposite side of kidney being treated, bend place the palmar aspect of the 2nd, 3rd & 4th
knee to 90˚, rotate hip laterally and have client turn fingers pointed to a mid-point of the same side
their head to same side. upper arm.

Palpate a point between the lower costal margin of the The Bowen Therapy moves produce a deep
rib cage and the lateral margin of the erector spinae
stimulation to the Kidneys, Adrenals, Quadrus
at a point slightly superior to the tip of the 11th rib.
lumborum and Psoas major muscles. The intent
is to challenge and release tension or conges-
Using 3 fingers, draw skin slack towards the oppo-
tion held within the muscles and the fascia sur-
site hip, engage anterior challenge and move supero-
laterally to the same side upper arm. Repeat on the rounding the above structures, thereby stimu-
opposite side. lating the kidneys function as well as improve
the overall surrounding tissues.

ASSESSMENT - After the minimum 2 minute pause

following the BRM 2 - Moves (1 - 16) assess the loin
region by holding the palm of one hand held
approximately 1” over the skin at the kidney region.
Determine any variations of warmth or coldness on
one side or the other of the kidney region, assess
for any skin discoloration of or variation of symme-
try. Treat the better (less congested) side first.While
the client lies prone stand on the opposite side to
the kidney to be treated first - if treating the right
side, stand on the left; if treating the left side, stand
on the right. The client’s face is turned to the side
the therapist is standing, their inner thighs lying
together. Flex the client’s knee to 90˚ and rotate
their femur laterally until the tension of the rotation is
felt in the opposite pelvis.

Landmark a point lateral to the 3rd lumbar verte-

brae and on the lateral edge of erector spinae and
place the palmar aspect of the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fin-
gers of the superior hand pointing in an oblique
direction towards a mid-point on the same side tri-
ceps brachii muscle. This can also be landmarked
from a point between the spine at the level of the tip
of the last rib, this defines the inferior border of the
loin, at a point lateral and adjacent to the erector

58 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 1
Draw skin infero-medially with the palmar
AFTERCARE
aspect of the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingers of the supe-
In case of kidney congestion it is recommended
rior hand, challenge deeply onto the inferior to have a daily serving of 2 tbsp of raw beet-
border of Quadrus lumborum. Whilst maintain- root, sliced or grated, as a tonic to the kidney
ing the depth of challenge move supero-lateral- function. Taken for one week after each treat-
ly towards a mid-point on the same side upper ment. The beetroot does not have a strong
arm over the smooth fibers of Quadrus lumbo- diuretic effect and will not interfere with any
rum. The close of the move is at the limit of the prescribed medications. Ensure the client
skin slack and inferior to the bottom rib. remains hydrated after the treatment.

Move 2
Stand on the opposite side with the client’s
face turned to the same side with their leg
flexed and same side hip rotated laterally.
Repeat, as above.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

PELVIC PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 1 (1-4) - Lower Back Procedure

PELVIC PROCEDURE - SUMMARY Assessment Results

If the client has noticeable discomfort in either
Move 1 - ‘Hit the Lat’.
side of their sacral area, the Sacral procedure is
Move 2 - Challenge Adductus longus supero-laterally for likely required after the client has stood at the end
20 seconds, release softly. (To achieve the best hold of of treatment.
the Adductus tendon push skin onto and under it from
the inguinal crease).
If the client has noticeable tension or pain in the
Move 3 - Medial move over the sartorius muscle at a
point 3 finger-widths inferior to the ASIS. lateral border of the ilium or trochantor, the
Coccyx procedure is likely needed at the next
Move 4 - open the limb 30˚, bend the knee to 90˚,
position the 2nd & 3rd fingertips open and onto the mid- session.
point of the inguinal ligament. Flex the hip towards the
opposite side shoulder and softly challenge the inguinal
ligament before moving superiorly over it. If the client has discomfort on the lateral side of
their upper thigh consider the Rectus Femoris
Continue flexing the hip fully before straightening the leg
Procedure at a follow-up session.
at the knee, then return it to rest.

Assessment
Decide which side to treat first by testing for
groin tension using the ‘Faber’ test, treat the looser
4
side first. This assessment also guides the choice of
other treatment choices, including: Sacrum, Coccyx 3

and Rectus femoris Procedures.

Place the client’s left lateral malleolus onto the 2

opposite thigh so that it rests superior to their

opposite patella. Place the therapist’s right hand
onto the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the
left hand 3rd finger into the medial aspect of the
patella crease. Gently challenge the left limb at the
groin posteriorly with the left hand pressing poste-
ro-laterally to the comfort of the client. Ask the cli-
ent for their sense of pain or tension and it’s loca-
1
tion, rest the limb straight.

Repeat on the opposite side. Asses any differences

in flexibility of the groin and ascertain any variation
in sensation on either side.

60 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 1 on the insertion and belly of the Adductus longus

‘Hit the Lat.’ Draw skin to the postero-lateral border tendon at its insertion adjacent to the pubic bone.
of vastus lateralis and sink the thumbs against the The 4th & 5th fingers of the superior hand should be
posterior edge of the vastus lateralis tendon, engage flexed to avoid contact with the genitals 2nd & 3rd
a gentle challenge antero-medially into the vastus fingers extended onto the Adductus longus tendon.
lateralis tendon and move the thumbs, hands and
wrists, slowly, antero-medially over the vastus late- From this point push skin slack posteriorly to the
ralis tendon until the tendon releases its tension posterior border of the Adductus longus tendon
under the challenge. with the 2nd & 3rd fingers of both hands. Curl the
tips of the fingers and challenge the Adductus lon-
Move 2 gus tendon antero-laterally for 20 seconds to soften
Explain to your client that this next move is being the tension in it. Use the arms and shoulders to trac-
made on the inside of their thigh and close to their tion and ensure an even challenge. After the client
pubic bone. Be conscientious to the clients comfort has made a second full exhalation release the ten-
with your working in a private area, be certain that sion created by the challenge to the Adductus lon-
you have their permission to continue. gus tendon by gently opening the fingers and drop-
ping the wrists.
Drape their groin and opposite limb appropriately
before proceeding. Using the palmar aspect of the Move 3
2nd or 3rd fingers of both hands placed inferior to Place the palmar aspect of both thumbs lying tip-to-
the mid-point of the inguinal ligament tease aside tip onto the belly of the sartorius muscle approxi-
the adipose tissue as you move the position of the mately 3 finger-widths inferior to the ASIS (anterior
fingers postero-medially until the fingers are resting superior iliac spine). Draw the skin to the lateral
edge of the sartorius muscle and sink the thumbs
beside its lateral edge. Engage challenge medially to
create tension in it and then move the thumbs
4
through and over the sartorius muscle releasing the
3 tension created.

Open the client’s same side lower limb to approxi-

2
mately 20˚ from the midline and flex their knee to
90˚. Place the palmar aspect of the 2nd & 3rd fin-
gers of the superior hand onto the inguinal liga-
ment, position the 2nd finger on the mid-point of
the inguinal ligament and the 3rd finger 1” medial to
it. With the elbows apart position the inferior hand
onto the client’s leg below the knee. If the client has
1
a heavier limb the therapist can position their infe-
rior hand under the client’s thigh at the popliteal
fossa. Ensure the limb is relaxed and you are well
balanced to perform Move (4) of this procedure.

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Move 4
On the client’s exhalation lift and comfortably
extend their flexed thigh and knee towards the
opposite shoulder using the inferior hand at the
knee to support and leverage its movement. When
the client’s thigh covers the therapist’s superior
hand tip the 2nd & 3rd fingers further into the ingui-
nal crease and apply a gentle challenge onto the
inguinal ligament, this is like softly playing onto a
tight band and requires only a gentle signal. Gently
move superiorly (strum) over the inguinal ligament
with the palmar aspect of the 2nd & 3rd fingers.

Finally, to the comfort of the client extend the leg in

the direction of the opposite shoulder so as to
stretch the thigh and hamstrings and then fully
straighten it at the knee before lowering the straight-
ened limb to rest on the treatment table applying
gentle traction to the knee and hip while holding the
ankle to lower the limb to complete rest on the treat-
ment table.

Immediately perform the above Moves (1 - 4) on the

opposite limb.

Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause

Leg Position for Move 4

62 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

AFTERCARE & EXERCISE

Walk as often as possible and guard the natural sym-
metry of the lower back area whilst sitting and ris-
ing especially during activity following the treat-
ment. Urge the client not to remain seated for too
long a period of time so as to avoid returning their
lower back area into its old patterns of misalign-
ment.

The following daily exercise for the pelvic floor and

Quadriceps muscles and tendons to aid the align-
ment of the hip are recommended the day after
treatment. Perform for both limbs starting with the
better side.

Whilst laying on your back draw the heel towards

the same side buttock, relax the limb. Now,
extend and straighten the leg so that the foot is
elevated from the surface to their comfort.

Then, slowly lower the limb using the groin and

abdominal muscles for this effort and feel the
resistance coming from the Abductus longus
muscles. Do this as slowly as is comfortable until
the limb lays flat. Repeat 6 X for each limb.

The object is to remind the muscles to let-go any

contraction and elongate the groin muscles.

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SACRUM PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM (1 - 8) - Lower Back Procedure

The Sacrum procedure is most often performed in a

standing position though it can also be performed
SACRUM - SUMMARY
with the client lying prone and with a pillow or bol-
Client is standing hands supporting their position of ster to support under their hips and to flex the
their low back bent forward, their feet are shoulder sacrum and access the Sacrotuberous ligaments. In
width apart and their legs are straight. pregnancy the sacrum is under greater stress and
the procedure can be provided as needed.
Therapist stands at the side of the client with one
hand on the ASIS to support the moves. Assessment
Ask every client with lower back issues following
Move 1 - At a point below the inferior margin of the treatment session and after they’ve walked and
the sacrum and 1-2 fingers from the gluteal fold. stood awhile, if there is any sign of ache or pain in
Perform a strong inferior move over the Sacro-tu- their lower back and sacrum area. Have them walk
berous ligaments. briefly, or even a few minutes outside the clinic to
see if walking relieves their discomfort. If not, per-
Remove thumb tip for a few seconds and then re-
form the Sacrum Procedure.
place in the spot where move (1) was performed.

Move 2 - Perform, one-handed, either BRM 1 (3),

or BRM 1 (4) whilst maintaining the holding point
at Move (1).

1 2

64 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

The client stands with their feet shoulder-width Move 2

apart, their legs perpendicular to the floor and their Replace the thumb of the posterior hand distal to
back slightly arched to their comfort. Stand at their the inferior angle of the sacrum and apply comfort-
side with the anterior hand resting at the client’s able pressure onto the Sacrotuberous ligaments.
ASIS to support them.The posterior hand’s thumb This is the same point that was challenged and
palpates for the inferior border of the sacrum and a released during Move (1), it is now a ‘holding point’.
soft point just distal of the inferior lateral angle of Place the opposite thumb onto the lateral edge of
the sacrum on the same side of the client. This point gluteus maximus on it’s mid-point, the same point
is approximately 2-3 cm from the midline. for BRM 1 - Moves (3) & (4), Using the thumb and
resting the fingers at the spine draw skin to the lat-
Treat the better side first. eral margin of gluteus maximus and gluteus medius
deeper, challenge medially and shunt gluteus maxi-
Move 1 mus medially towards the holding point, this dis-
With the palmar aspect of the thumb push skin places adhesions between the gluteus muscles.
superiorly, from a point distal of the inferior lateral
angle of the sacrum, to the inferior angle of the Have the client walk briefly and repeat the proce-
sacrum. Challenge onto this and move inferiorly dure again if needed. Any change to the client’s
over the inferior angle and the Sacrotuberous liga- symptoms should be dramatic with immediate relief
ment. This move elicits some discomfort when to any remaining sacral symptoms.
properly performed. Lift the thumb for several sec-
onds to allow a response.

2
1

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

AFTERCARE & EXERCISE

Walk as often as possible and guard the natural sym-
metry of the lower back area whilst sitting, rising
and during activity after the treatment. Urge the cli-
ent not to remain seated for too long a period of
time, so as to avoid returning their lower back area
into its common misalignment pattern.

In case of stiffness in the sacrum the following

stretch is recommended:

Note: Once a day gently flex and stretch the

sacrum by leaning forward and placing the
hands onto the surface of counter, table or chair
back. Open the feet to shoulder-width.

66 Copyright © schoolofbowen
HAMSTRINGS PROCEDURE
Minimum Prerequisite
BRM 1 (1 - 10) - Lower Back Procedure

Hamstrings - Summary
Moves 11 - 12
Move 1 Moves (11) & (12) are the same as Moves (5) & (6) of
Medial move made with elbow over the musculo-ten- the Knee Procedure.
donous aspect of biceps and semitendinosus.
This is the same point as either ‘holding points’ (5a) or Moves 13 - 14
(7a) of BRM 1. As above and over the distal 1/3 of the gastrocnemius.

Move 2 Moves 15 - 16
While the knee is still flexed at 90˚make a medial move A medial and then lateral move over the mid-point of the
deep to the centre of the popliteal fossa with the thumb. calcaneus (‘achilles’) tendon. Using the middle finger.

Move 3
Rotate the foot and ankle clockwise and anti-clockwise
so as to relax and gently hit (percuss) the ball of the
foot.

Perform Moves 1-3 on the opposite limb.

3
Provide A Minimum 5 Minute Pause

Move 4
Perform Move 1 of the Knee Procedure.
1

Moves 5 - 6
The Client’s knee of the side being treated is flexed to
90˚. Stand or sit beside the client’s hip and face their
feet. Perform a medial move over the semitendonosis
and a lateral move over biceps femoris just below where
they attach to the ischial tuberosity, ‘sit bone’.

Moves 7 - 8
2
Perform a medial move over the semitendonosis and a
lateral move over biceps femoris mid-thigh.

Moves 9 - 10 Move 2
Perform a gentle move medially and laterally over the Shown here on right limb. It is
fibers of the short head’s of semitendinosus and biceps performed with the knee bent at
90˚. The Move is performed over
femoris inside the popliteal fossa. the mid-point of the politeal fossa.

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

Move 1 superior to the patella crease and with the thumb

With the patient lying prone the therapist addresses perpendicular to the limb and pointed inferiorly.
the left side first unless otherwise indicated. Gently draw skin laterally, engage a comfortable
anterior challenge and move medially through the
Using the inferior hand flex the client's knee to 90˚ popliteal fossa. There will be a sense of challenge
holding it at the malleolus. Using either, the 2nd, and soft movement onto the tibial nerve that descends
3rd & 4th fingers or elbow point of the superior arm vertically through the popliteal fossa. The tibial
placed at a midpoint on the gluteal crease and upon nerve is one of two branches of the sciatic nerve.
the musculo-tendonous aspect of biceps femoris
and semitendinosus. This is the same point as either Move 3
‘holding points’ (5a) or (7a) of BRM 1. Ensure the cli- Assess the range of motion of the ankle joint while
ent's limbs are completely relaxed. Draw skin later- the knee remains flexed at 90˚. Rotate the foot and
ally over the musculo-tendonous insertions of ankle clockwise and anti-clockwise so as to relax
biceps femoris and semitendinosus with the elbow and confuse the client's neuro-muscular system.
or fingers of the superior arm. Engage firm chal- While holding the client's leg with one superior
lenge and move medially and deeply through the hand gently hit (percuss) the sole of the foot at a
musculo-tendonous insertions of biceps femoris point between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsals with the
and semitendinosus without easing on the challenge ulnar aspect of the clenched hand to send a visible
or depth taken. If using your elbow use the motion wave through the hamstring muscles at the thigh.
of the shoulder to draw it medially over the ten-
dons. Perform Moves 1-3 on the opposite limb.

Move 2 Provide A Minimum 5 Minute Pause

While the knee is still flexed at 90˚ position the pal-
mar aspect of the superior thumb into the centre of A longer pause is necessary as the muscles worked
the popliteal fossa approximately 2 finger-widths on need time to respond before being worked on
again for Moves (4-16).

68 Copyright © schoolofbowen
by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Move 4 on a midpoint of the popliteal fossa approximately

With the client now lying supine address the left 2 finger-widths superior to the crease. Engage very
side first unless the right side was treated with gentle challenge and move medially and then later-
Moves (1-3) when prone. ally over the fibers of the short head's of semitendi-
nosus and biceps femoris within the popliteal fossa.
'Hit the Lat'. Vastus lateralis is moved over antero-
medially using the palmar aspect of both thumbs. Moves 11 - 12
Moves (11) & (12) are the same as Moves (5) & (6) of
The following pairs of moves all start on the the Knee Procedure.
medial side of the limb being treated followed by
the lateral side. Position the client's knee so that it is flexed to
approximately 90˚ and sit at the foot of the client
Moves 5 - 6 and face the anterior of their knee. With open
The Client's knee of the side being treated is flexed elbows reach the fingers of both hands onto the
to 90˚. Stand or sit beside the client's hip and faces medial borders of both gastrocnemius approximately
their feet. The therapist's hands encircle the thigh 3 fingers
with the 2nd to 4th fingers of both hands lying back-
to-back and placed inferior to the ischial tuberosity
and between the tendons of biceps femoris and
semitendinosus. Pull the fingertips into and in-
between the two tendons to deeply engage firm
6 5
anterior challenge. While maintaining the depth of
challenge move both hands and fingers medially
with the medial side hand releasing semitendinosus
tendon; while maintaining firm challenge move both
hands laterally with the lateral side hand releasing 8 7
biceps femoris tendon. Maintain depth throughout
the move.

Moves 7 - 8 10 9

Both the therapist and client remain positioned and

the therapist's hands encircle the thigh with the 2nd
to 4th fingers of both hands lying back-to-back and 12 11
on a midpoint of both biceps femoris and semiten-
dinosus approximately over the midpoint of the
posterior thigh. Pull to challenge the palmar aspect
14 13
of the fingertips onto the medial borders of biceps
femoris and semitendinosus. Challenge anteriorly
and move both hands and fingers medially with the
medial side hand releasing semitendinosus muscle;
and firmly move both hands laterally with the lat-
eral side hand releasing biceps femoris muscle.
Maintain medium depth throughout.
16 15

Moves 9 - 10
Both the therapist and client remain positioned and
the therapist's hands encircle the thigh with the 2nd
to 4th fingers of both hands lying back-to-back and

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 Modules 1-2 Bowen Therapy Instruction Manual

challenge and engage tension anteriorly into the

muscle before moving the fingers medially and ante-
riorly over the belly of the medial gastrocnemius.

The muscle should release the tension put into by

the challenge as the fingers open at the close of this
move. While holding the divide with the medial hand
Client position for Moves 5-16 let the lateral hand go and position the 2nd, 3rd &
4th fingers 1/3 laterally and onto the belly of the
below the bend of the knee joint. Turn fingers and lateral gastrocnemius. Push skin to the posterior
divide the gastrocnemius muscles with the finger- border of the lateral gastrocnemius and with more
nails of each hand lying back-to-back. While holding emphasis on the 3rd finger challenge and engage
the divide with the lateral hand let the medial hand tension anteriorly into the muscle before moving
go and position the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingers 1/3 medi- the fingers laterally and anteriorly over the belly of
ally onto the belly of the medial gastrocnemius. the lateral gastrocnemius. The muscle should release
Push skin posteriorly over the posterior border of the tension put into by the challenge as the fingers
the medial gastrocnemius and with more emphasis open at the close of this move.
on the 3rd finger challenge and engage tension ante-
riorly onto the muscle before moving the fingers Moves 15 - 16
medially and anteriorly over the belly of the medial With the knee flexed at 90˚ or laying flat on the
gastrocnemius. treatment table surface the therapist places the pal-
mar aspect of medial side hands 3rd finger on the
The muscle should release the tension put into by mid-point of the calcaneus tendon. Using the proxi-
the challenge as the fingers open at the close of this mal end of the distal phalanx of the 3rd finger push
move. While holding the divide with the medial skin laterally, engage anterior challenge onto the
hand let the lateral hand go and position the 2nd, calcaneus tendon and move medially. Using the lat-
3rd & 4th fingers 1/3 laterally onto the belly of the eral hand repeat a lateral move on the same point of
lateral gastrocnemius. Push skin posteriorly over the calcaneus tendon.
the posterior border of the lateral gastrocnemius
and with more emphasis on the 3rd finger challenge Perform Moves (4 - 16) on the opposite limb.
and engage tension anteriorly onto the muscle
before moving the fingers laterally and anteriorly Provide A Minimum 2 Minute Pause
over the belly of the lateral gastrocnemius. The
muscle should release the tension put into by the
challenge as the fingers open at the close of this move.

Moves 13 - 14
Place the palmar aspect of the 2nd to 4th fingers of
both hands onto the posterior borders of the gas-
trocnemius approximately 2/3 distal to the length
of the gastrocnemius. Turn fingers and divide the
gastrocnemius muscles with the fingernails of each
hand lying back-to-back. While holding the divide
with the lateral hand let the medial hand go and
position the 2nd, 3rd & 4th fingers 1/3 medially and
onto the belly of the medial gastrocnemius. Push
skin to the posterior border of the medial gastrocne-
mius and with more emphasis on the 3rd finger

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 HAMSTRING & KNEE
COMBINATION

AFTERCARE & EXERCISES

Once or more a day have the client do the following For client that also presents with knee symptoms it
exercise starting the day after treatment (Cancan): is optional to include the Moves (2 - 4) of the Knee
procedure between Moves (4 - 5) of the Hamstring
a) Support yourself with one hand and raise your procedure with a minimum 2 minute pause before
better side knee so that the knee is flexed at 90˚and completing Moves (5 - 12) of the Hamstrings.
your thigh is parallel with the floor.
Optionally, Moves (13 - 16) of the Hamstrings proce-
b) Now, place that foot behind you and relax the hip dure or Moves (7 - 10) of the Knee procedure can be
by placing all your weight onto your standing limb. used to complete the Hamstring & Knee combined
procedure, depending on the emphasis of symp-
c) Swing the relaxed limb forward to stretch of the toms.
calf muscles and thigh muscles.

Repeat 6 X on each side and increase the stretch

each time. This exercise is a short relaxing stretch of
the hamstrings and is more effective than any other
form of prolonged stretching.

1 2 3

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GLOSSARY OF TERMS Palmar

A point in the hand or its digits that lies anterior to
another.
Anatomical Positions
Plantar
Positions adopted by the body, used for the basis of A point that lies closer to the weight-bearing surface
descriptive anatomical terms. The actual position is of the foot than another.
standing, feet together, upper limbs resting by the
side, open palm facing forward. Posterior
A point that lies further backwards than another.
The following are terms used to describe the loca-
tion of one point with reference to another, in the Prone - Refers to face down, e.g. lying prone.
anatomical position.
Proximal
Anterior Used primarily for the limbs; describes a point
A point that lies further forwards than another. closer to the trunk (i.e. thorax, abdomen and pelvis)
than another.
Bilateral - Implies both sides.
Radial
Caudal - As for inferior (derives from the Latin for Closer to the radial border (read Ulnar, above)
tail).
Superior
Contralateral - Refers to the side opposite the one A point that lies closer to the head than the feet.
that is attracting the current attention.
Supine - Refers to face up, e.g. lying supine.
Cranial - As for superior.
Ventral
Distal Similar to anterior but usually reserved for points in
Used primarily for the limbs; describes a point fur- the abdomen.
ther from the trunk than another.
Volar
Dorsal Similar to anterior but its use is restricted almost
Similar to posterior, its use tends to be restricted to entirely to the forearm.
referring to a surface of the limbs, hand or feet.
Note that the dorsal surface of the feet (dorsum) is Ulnar
the non weight-bearing aspect. Refers only to points in the forearm and hand. It
implies the chosen point is closer to the ulnar bor-
Inferior der (the side of the forearm containing the ulnar)
A point that lies closer to the feet than the head. than it is to the radial border (the side of the fore-
arm containing the radius) In the anatomical posi-
Ipsilateral
tion medial and ulnar are synonymous. However, as
The term used to describe the side of the body that
the forearm assumes positions removed from this it
one's attention is being direct towards. It may rep-
resent right or left side at different times. It is used becomes simpler to talk in terms of ulnar and radi-
in distinction to contralateral. For example, with a al.
practitioner standing at the patient's right side, the
right leg becomes the ipsilateral leg and the left one The following terms describe movement:
the contralateral. The reverse would be true if the
practitioner stands at the patient's left side, as this Abduction
now becomes the ipsilateral side. Usually refers to the limbs with respect to the trunk
(in the anatomical position) or the digits with
Lateral - A point that lies further from the midline respect to a designated reference line in the hand
than another. and foot. The movement takes the designated part,
moving in the plane of the anatomical position,
Medial away from its reference. For example both upper
A point that lies closer to the midline than another. limbs are abducted to shoulder level to achieve the
crucifix (cross) position.
Midline
A plane, which transects the body into two halves,
left and right.

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by Jonathan Damonte for The School of Bowen

Adduction Plantar flexion

Opposite to abduction, in general a part needs to be Implies a movement in the ankle joint that moves
abducted before it can be adducted. the foot in a plantar direction.

Circumduction Pronation
Usually referring to the wrist, shoulder or hip joints; Used exclusively to describe a movement of the
the combined total range of movement achievable forearm and its lower limb equivalent, the leg. It is
by the joint; it combines adduction, extension, the movement by which, in the anatomical position,
abduction and flexion in succession. with the proximal part of the upper limb held immo-
bile, the palm comes to face posteriorly. This move-
Dorsiflexion ment can be performed in conjunction with internal
Implies a movement at the ankle joint which moves and external rotation of the limb.
the foot in a dorsal direction (away from the plantar
surface). Radial deviation
Opposite to ulnar deviation, it is a movement occur-
Eversion ring at the wrist, whereby the hand moves in the
Refers to movements of the foot opposite to inver- direction of its radial border.
sion. The medial border moves plantar-ward with
the lateral border moving dorsally. Supination
Opposite to pronation.
Extension - Opposite to flexion.
Ulnar deviation
External rotation Refers to movement occurring at the wrist, whereby
The opposite of internal rotation, it describes a the hand moves in the direction of its ulnar border.
movement of a limb whereby it rotates on its long
axis, bringing its medial aspect anteriorly and medi- Structure
ally (the lateral aspect rotates posteriorly and later-
ally). Aponeurosis
Made of the same structural elements as a tendon,
Flexion running from muscle usually to bone, its difference
Used to describe the movement at a joint. Flexion is is in that it is a flattened sheet (it may condense into
said to occur when the angle between the bones on a flat or cylindrical cord, i.e. a tendon, prior to
either side of the joint decreases (i.e. they get closer insertion).
together).
Fascia
Internal rotation A deep layer of fibrous tissue, of varying thickness,
Describes a movement of a limb whereby it rotates which envelopes the body separating and compart-
on its long axis, bringing its lateral aspect anteriorly mentalizing the fat from the muscles.
and medially (the medial aspect rotates posteriorly
and laterally). Insertion
Is usually the distal boney attachment of muscles.
Inversion
Refers to movements of the foot such that if both Joint
feet were to invert, with minimal movement of the Describes the union between two, or sometimes
remainder of the lower limb, the plantar surfaces more, bones.
would be directed approximately towards each
other. In this instance the medial border of the foot Ligament
moves dorsally and the lateral border plantar-ward. A non-elastic concentration of fibrous tissue that
usually joins two bones in rigid approximation.
Lateral flexion
Describes the movement of the trunk. It is prefixed Origin
by left or right to denote the direction from the mid- Is usually the proximal boney attachment of mus-
line. cles.

Lateral rotation Tendon

As for external rotation. Similar to ligaments they are composed of fibrous
collagenous elements. They join muscles to bone,
Medial rotation especially at their insertion, and may be condensed
As for internal rotation. into a single cord or flatter form.

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