To fully understand the mechanism of action of Bowenwork, it is important to appreciate the role of fascia, or connective tissue, as the “cement” that binds the whole body together as a complex multidimensional unit with several links between various body parts. When one structure is strained, it causes a pull on an adjacent part, which in turn affects the next segment, and thus the whole body becomes vulnerable to being strained or out of alignment.
Bowenwork has very specific effect on fascia because most bowen moves are done over muscles, ligaments, tendons and occasionally joints and nerves, and these structures are surrounded by a network of fascia, therefore several structures are activated at the same time, albeit with different physiological effects. Following a bowen session it is not uncommon to see posture and mobility improve without harsh mobilization or stretching.
Another mechanism of action is through intrafascial mechanoreceptors that affect muscle tone and increase vagal tone. Golgi, Ruffini and Interstitial receptors are activated during a treatment:
- Discharges from the golgi endings, located in the tendons, are sent to the spinal cord via dorsal root fibers, causing an inhibitory effect, which results in relaxation. By working close to the origin and insertion of muscles, manipulation of these receptors causes the firing of alpha motor neurons resulting in the softening of related tissues.
- Most Bowen moves are slow and steady which affect the numerous Ruffini receptors located throughout the skin and deep tissues of the body. Slow moves over these receptors lower the sympathetic nervous system response in the body inducing a profound sense of relaxation in the client.
- Interstitial receptors which are found nearly everywhere in the body are sensitive to very light touch (the kind used in several Bowen moves), and they also induce a decrease in SNS activity, and a corresponding increase in vagal tone.
The gentle stretching and repetitive squeezing and release moves with pauses in between also encourages hydration of the fascia. Such moves are quite typical in a Bowen session. It has been found that there is a significant increase in hydration after half an hour of a Bowen session. Fascia that is well hydrated is less prone to losing it’s sliding/gliding quality, which keeps it from getting stiff/brittle. This in turn sets the scene for muscles and bones to follow.
While there are numerous other proposed mechanisms of action, it is not fully established exactly which system dominates. The effectiveness of Bowenwork in its treatment of a wide range of conditions is borne out of clinical experience. More research is needed to support the clinical findings, but there are well researched mechanisms that lend credit to the pathways that are stimulated during Bowenwork sessions which assist with fascial fitness, reducing stress levels, increasing vascular supply and improving mobility and posture.