What is Equine Bowen Therapy
Equine Bowen Therapy is a gentle, holistic treatment that focuses on supporting a horse's natural ability to heal by stimulating the body's nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Originating from the human Bowen Technique, this therapy uses specific, rolling hand movements applied lightly to targeted areas of the horse's muscles, tendons, and fascia (the connective tissue).
These movements work to release tension, improve circulation, and encourage the nervous system to address imbalances or discomfort within the body. Unlike forceful manipulations found in other therapies, Bowen Therapy is non-invasive and respects the horse's natural rhythm, making it suitable for all types of horses, regardless of age or physical condition.
The treatment itself consists of sequences of Bowen "moves," with each move applied using gentle pressure at precise locations along the horse's body. These moves are followed by short pauses, allowing the horse's nervous system to interpret and respond to each stimulus. The pauses are crucial; they give the horse's body time to process and adjust, supporting deeper levels of relaxation and healing. This cycle of gentle stimulus and pause works with the horse's physiology rather than against it, promoting a shift toward balance and relieving stress held within muscles and connective tissues.
Many practitioners observe that horses visibly relax and show signs of release, such as lowering their heads, licking, yawning, or sighing during a session. The effects of Equine Bowen Therapy are often broad, addressing not only specific areas of pain or stiffness but also improving overall flexibility, posture, and even mood.
Many owners turn to Bowen Therapy to help their horses with issues ranging from muscular discomfort and joint stiffness to behavioural changes linked to physical tension. While not a cure-all, Equine Bowen Therapy can be a valuable complementary therapy, enhancing quality of life and well-being by restoring the horse's natural ability to self-correct and heal. Through its gentle, cumulative effect, Bowen Therapy can help create a more balanced, relaxed, and healthy horse without the need for force or medication.
Equine Bowen Benefits
What are some benefits that Equine Bowen Therapy may help with?
- Pain relief
- Improved flexibility
- Enhanced circulation
- Reduced muscle tension
- Increased range of motion
- Stress reduction
- Supports Behavioural Calmness
- Faster recovery from injury
- Balanced posture
- Enhanced relaxation
- Holistic healing
- Non-invasive treatment
- Improved mobility
- Emotional well-being
Unique attributes of Bowen
- Gentle and Non-Invasive: Uses light, rolling hand movements that are gentle and respectful, avoiding forceful manipulation and ensuring the horse remains relaxed.
- Holistic Approach: Considers the horse's overall well-being, addressing physical, mental, and emotional needs to promote natural balance and harmony.
- Nervous System Engagement: Stimulates the nervous system to activate the horse's innate healing responses, targeting the root causes of discomfort rather than just symptoms.
- Pauses Between Moves: Includes deliberate pauses between sequences of moves, allowing the horse's body time to process and respond, which can deepen the treatment's effectiveness.
- Adaptable to All Horses: Suitable for horses of any age, breed, or physical condition as agreed by your vet, making it a versatile therapy across different equine needs.
- Improves Circulation and Flexibility: Enhances blood flow, releases tension, and increases range of motion, helping horses recover from stiffness or injury.
- Supports Behavioural Calmness: Helps reduce stress and tension, contributing to a calmer, more balanced temperament in horses.
I'm very excited to be able to share this amazing therapy with you and your horse
Equine Bowen Therapy is a gentle, hands-on treatment that uses specific rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and fascia to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve flexibility. It stimulates the body's natural healing processes without the use of force or medication.
The therapy involves sequences of light, rolling movements applied to key areas of the horse's body. These movements are followed by short pauses to allow the horse's nervous system to process and respond, encouraging natural healing, reducing tension, and restoring balance.
Yes, Equine Bowen Therapy is suitable for horses of all ages, breeds, and physical conditions (as agreed by your vet). It is gentle and non-invasive, making it safe for both young and older horses, as well as those recovering from injury or dealing with chronic pain.
Bowen Therapy can help with a variety of issues, including muscle stiffness, joint pain, behavioural changes, post-injury recovery, stress, and tension. It is often used to address mobility problems, lameness, back pain, and general discomfort.
The number of sessions required depends on the individual horse and the condition being treated. Typically, horses may benefit from an initial series of 2-3 sessions, followed by maintenance treatments as needed. Your therapist will provide a personalised plan based on your horse's needs.
No, Equine Bowen Therapy is gentle and non-invasive, with most horses experiencing relaxation during the session. Some may even show signs of relief, such as yawning or licking, as their bodies process the treatment.
A typical session lasts between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the horse's needs and the areas being treated. The sessions are not rushed, allowing time for the horse's body to respond to each move and pause. First treatments can take up to 90 minutes due to the initial consultation process.
Some horses may show immediate signs of improvement, such as increased mobility or relaxation, while others may take a few days to fully respond. Bowen Therapy often works gradually, with long-term benefits developing over time - every horse responds differently.
Yes, Equine Bowen Therapy is completely safe for horses. It is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that works with the horse's body, rather than forcing it into any position. The therapist will assess your horse's needs and adjust the treatment accordingly to ensure safety and comfort.