Tag: Bowen Therapy

January 23, 2026 Blog

How Bowen Therapy Can Help with Neck and Shoulder Pain

Modern Life is having big impact on Neck and Shoulder Pain

Neck and shoulder pain has become almost normal in modern life—but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it. Whether it creeps in gradually or flares up suddenly, ongoing tension in the neck and shoulders can affect your sleep, mood, concentration, and overall quality of life.

Bowen Therapy offers a gentle, holistic approach that works with your body rather than forcing it, helping to release tension, calm the nervous system, and support long‑term relief.

 

Common Causes of Neck and Shoulder Pain

Many everyday habits place strain on the neck and shoulders, often without us realising. Some of the most common triggers include:

  • Sitting at a desk all day – especially with poor posture, screen height issues, or lack of breaks
  • Using laptops or phones for long periods – leading to “tech neck” and rounded shoulders
  • Stress and emotional tension – which the body often holds in the neck and shoulders
  • Unsupportive pillows or mattresses – causing strain overnight
  • Sleeping positions – particularly stomach sleeping or twisting the neck
  • Driving for long periods – especially with tense shoulders or poor seat positioning
  • Old injuries or repetitive movements – that never fully resolved

Over time, these stresses can lead to tight muscles, reduced mobility, headaches, nerve irritation, and ongoing discomfort.

 

What Is Bowen Therapy and how does it help Neck and Shoulder Pain?

Bowen Therapy is a gentle, hands‑on therapy that uses subtle rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and connective tissue. These precise moves are followed by short pauses, allowing the body time to respond and reset.

Unlike forceful techniques, Bowen Therapy works by stimulating the nervous system and encouraging the body’s own healing mechanisms.

How Bowen Therapy Helps Neck and Shoulder Pain

Bowen Therapy addresses neck and shoulder pain at its source, rather than just treating symptoms. It may help by:

  • Releasing muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
  • Improving posture and alignment by balancing muscle patterns
  • Calming the nervous system, reducing stress‑related tension
  • Easing headaches and jaw tension linked to neck dysfunction
  • Improving range of motion and flexibility
  • Supporting nerve function, including issues like tingling or referred pain

Many people find Bowen Therapy deeply relaxing, with benefits continuing to unfold in the days following a session

There has been research carried out as to the effectiveness of Bowen Therapy on neck and shoulder pain.

 

Self‑Help Tips to Support Your Neck and Shoulders

Alongside Bowen Therapy, small daily changes can make a big difference:

  1. Improve Your Desk Setup
  • Keep your screen at eye level
  • Sit with feet flat on the floor
  • Relax your shoulders and avoid hunching
  • Take regular movement breaks
  1. Check Your Pillow
  • Your pillow should support your neck, not push it forward or let it drop
  • Side sleepers may need a firmer pillow; back sleepers often benefit from a lower profile
  1. Move Little and Often
  • Gentle neck rolls and shoulder shrugs
  • Stretch your chest to counteract forward‑rounded posture
  • Avoid holding the same position for long periods
  1. Manage Stress
  • Deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle exercise can help reduce tension stored in the neck and shoulders
  1. Stay Hydrated
  • Dehydrated muscles fatigue more easily and can feel tighter

When to Seek Help

If neck and shoulder pain is persistent, worsening, or affecting your sleep or daily activities, it’s important to address it early. Bowen Therapy is suitable for many people and can be especially helpful if you prefer a gentle, non‑invasive approach.

Final Thoughts

Neck and shoulder pain may be common, but it’s not something you have to accept as part of life. Bowen Therapy offers a gentle yet powerful way to support your body’s natural ability to release tension, restore balance, and move with greater ease.

If you’re feeling tight, sore, or stuck, your body may simply be asking for a reset.

 

December 1, 2025 Blog

Finding Calm in the Christmas Chaos – Simple Ways to Reduce Stress This Season

Reduce Christmas Stress Naturally – Mindful Tips for a Calmer Holiday

As the festive lights go up, so often does our stress level. The lead-up to Christmas can be full of joy — but also deadlines, shopping lists, family expectations, and endless to-dos. It’s easy to lose sight of what this time of year is really about: connection, reflection, and kindness.

If you often feel frazzled in December, you’re not alone. The good news? With a few gentle adjustments, you can bring calm and clarity back to your Christmas season.

  1. Slow the Pace

Try to consciously slow down, even for a few minutes each day.

  • Start your morning with a deep breath before reaching for your phone.
  • Sip your tea slowly.
  • Walk instead of rushing.
    These mindful pauses help reset the nervous system, reducing tension and anxiety.
  1. Simplify Your To-Do List

Ask yourself: Does this truly matter?
You don’t have to say yes to every event or create the “perfect” holiday.
Focus on meaningful moments — time with loved ones, laughter, rest. Perfection isn’t peaceful, but presence is.

  1. Nourish Your Body

The festive season often means indulgence (and that’s okay!) — but balance it with nourishing meals and hydration.

  • Add colourful vegetables to your plate.
  • Keep a water bottle nearby.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol when you can.

A balanced body supports a calmer mind.

 

  1. Try Gentle Relaxation Therapies

Bowen Therapy, massage, or mindfulness sessions can help the body release built-up tension.
Just one or two sessions in the lead-up to Christmas can restore balance, improve sleep, and lift your mood — so you can enjoy the season instead of simply surviving it.

  1. Be Kind to Yourself

Kindness isn’t just for others — it’s the key to reducing internal stress.
If you need rest, take it.
If emotions rise, breathe through them gently.
Remember, you don’t have to do everything — just enough to feel content and connected.

A Gentle Reminder

The most meaningful gift you can give this year is your calm, joyful presence — to others and to yourself.

Take care of your energy, protect your peace, and let kindness (and a few quiet moments) guide you through the holidays.

Donna Ashworth Wintering

November 13, 2025 Blog

The Healing Power of Kindness – Let’s Celebrate World Kindness Day

Today - Thursday, November 13th, is World Kindness Day — a perfect moment to pause, take a breath, and reflect on the healing power of simple kindness.

In Bowen Therapy, and in all forms of holistic care, we often talk about balance — helping the body find its natural rhythm and calm. Kindness does the same thing on an emotional level. When we offer kindness, our nervous system shifts into a state of safety and connection. The heart rate slows, breathing deepens, and the body releases the calming “feel-good” hormones that support healing.

Simple Ways to Be Kind

Kindness doesn’t need to be grand or complicated — it’s often the smallest moments that matter most:

  • Smile at someone or share a warm greeting — human connection soothes both giver and receiver.
  • Send a note of appreciation to a friend, therapist, or family member who’s helped you.
  • Be gentle with animals — feed the birds, walk your dog mindfully, or donate to a local rescue.
  • Practice self-kindness — rest when your body asks, nourish yourself well, and speak kindly to your inner voice.
  • Give back to the planet — reduce waste, recycle, or plant something green and life-giving.

Why Kindness Heals

Acts of kindness trigger the release of oxytocin — sometimes called the “love hormone.” It helps lower blood pressure, supports heart health, and strengthens emotional resilience.

Being kind also reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, helping the body stay balanced and calm. It’s no wonder that kindness is often described as medicine for the soul.

Just like gentle touch in Bowen Therapy helps the body reset, small acts of kindness help the mind and emotions realign.

So, on this World Kindness Day, let’s each do one kind thing — for someone else, an animal, or ourselves. The ripple effect might reach further than we can imagine.

October 3, 2025 Blog, Uncategorized

Special Taster Session Day – Bowen Therapy & Lymphatic Drainage in Marlow

25 minute Taster Sessions of Lymphatic Drainage and Bowen Therapy

On Sunday 19th October, I’ll be holding a special Taster Session Day at Marlow Health Hub, offering the chance to experience either Bowen Therapy or Lymphatic Drainage Therapy at a reduced rate.

Each session lasts 25 minutes and costs just £30.00 – perfect if you’ve been curious about these therapies but haven’t yet tried them.

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is a gentle, rhythmic treatment that supports your body’s natural detox process, boosts immunity, reduces swelling, bloating, clears brain fog and encourages deep relaxation.

Bowen Therapy works on the soft tissues of the body to relieve pain, release tension, improve mobility, and calm the nervous system.

This is a wonderful opportunity to discover how these holistic therapies can support your health and wellbeing.

📩 To book your place, please email info@abalancedbodywithbowen.co.uk or
📞 call/text Lee Avery on 07710 722615.

Spaces are limited – early booking is recommended!

Taster Sessions Lymphatic Drainage & Bowen Therapy Oct 25

May 5, 2024 Blog

Taster Sessions of Lymphatic Drainage and Bowen Therapy

25 minute Taster Sessions

Taster Sessions of Lymphatic Drainage and Bowen available at  The Fairbourne Clinic  in Newbury until the 31st May.

These mini treatments are a brilliant way to find out how these therapies can help you with many conditions such as:

  • Low energy/fatigue.
  • Brain Fog.
  • Unexplained aches and pains.
  • Sinus problems.
  • Recurring colds.
  • Gut issues.
  • Joint Stiffness.
  • Headaches.
  • Swelling in the fingers/ankles.
  • Bloating/water retention.
  • Constipation
  • Injuries.
  • Heightened allergies.
  • Overactive immune response.
  • Breast swelling and tenderness.
  • Swollen Glands.

They are 25 minutes and priced at £25.00. To book please call me on 07710722615 or email info@abalancedbodywithbowen.co.uk

November 16, 2023 Blog

Taster Sessions of Lymphatic Drainage and Bowen Therapy.

25 minute Taster Sessions

Taster Sessions of Lymphatic Drainage and Bowen available at Theale Wellbeing Centre, The Wellness Centre and The Fairbourne Clinic  until the 15th December.

These mini treatments are a brilliant way to find out how these therapies can help you with many conditions such as:

  • Low energy/fatigue.
  • Brain Fog.
  • Unexplained aches and pains.
  • Sinus problems.
  • Recurring colds.
  • Gut issues.
  • Joint Stiffness.
  • Headaches.
  • Swelling in the fingers/ankles.
  • Bloating/water retention.
  • Constipation
  • Injuries.
  • Heightened allergies.
  • Overactive immune response.
  • Breast swelling and tenderness.
  • Swollen Glands.

They are 25 minutes and priced at £25.00. To book please call me on 07710722615 or email info@abalancedbodywithbowen.co.uk

Taster Sessions at The Fairbourne Clinic, Newbury, Theale Wellbeing Centre and The Wellness Centre

July 21, 2023 Blog

Research shows how Bowen Therapy helps improve neck pain, and overall mental and physical well-being.

Twelve weeks of Bowen Therapy provides a favourable option in managing myofascial neck pain according to research.

Neck pain is very much on the rise.

Many people nowadays move less. We sit for long periods in front of our laptops, computers and hold mobile phones at awkward angles. During covid many people struggled with sciatica and neck pain because of sitting in bad positions to work. Although  generally I feel this is improving there is still a long way to go with many people still working mainly at home.

The Chelsea and Westminster NHS state "that two out of three of us will have neck pain at some time in our life". In most cases it is not due to a serious disease or structural problem and often the exact cause of the pain is not clear.

The most common cause of neck pain is a muscle strain. This is when a muscle is stretched too far and tears. Neck muscle strain is typically caused by poor posture or support, and sleeping with the neck in awkward positions.

Research conducted over a 12 week period of having Bowen Therapy showed that  it is a favourable option on reducing myofascial neck pain and overall enhancing your physical and mental health. The research is available here.

I find it invaluable to chat to people about their general movements. Finding out how they sit, what they do for a living and how they sleep. This all impacts on not only neck pain but general overall well-being. Often with Bowen therapy and a few lifestyle changes neck pain disappears.

 

July 14, 2023 Blog

Bowen and Talking Therapies Combined Treatment.

Bowen Therapy and Talking Therapies Combined.

Over the years I have become aware of how much the mind can influence the body. So I decided to study and qualify in a range of talking therapies including EFT (emotional freedom tapping) EMDR, Psychotherapy and Clinical Hypnotherapy.

I am pleased to announce that I am now offering 90-minute treatments combining both treatments priced at £90. I find that many of my clients experience great benefit from having a combination of Bowen Therapy and talking therapies.

Why combine Bowen Therapy and a Talking Therapy?

Mental health issues can really affect how we feel pain in the body. Sometimes we do not want to talk about how we are feeling and other days we want to offload. By offering the combination you can choose on the day what you want to do.  Sometimes when we start talking about things that are affecting us, it can open up some very old wounds and Bowen Therapy is amazing at helping to calm this all down.

Do please call or contact me if you have any questions or wish to discuss if this could be the right option for you.

August 29, 2022 Blog

Free Taster Sessions at Charvil Village Fete

Charvil Village Fete

Free Taster Bowen Therapy Sessions.

Co0me and try a Free Taster Session of Bowen Therapy at Charvil Village Fete on Sunday 4th September  from 2pm - 6pm.

Whatever your problem, be it chronic or acute pain, feeling stressed, anxious, suffering with the menopause or a neurological condition like Parkinson's do come and say hello, ask any questions you might have and try a treatment. There is no need to book - just turn up. If you have any questions beforehand, please do call me on 07710722615.

Charvil Village Fete

Charvil Village Fete Sunday 4th September 2022

August 17, 2022 Blog

Supporting Pancreatic Cancer with Bowen Therapy at Moss End Village.

Free Taster Bowen Therapy Sessions.

I am delighted to say that I will be offering Taster Sessions of Bowen Therapy in my clinic situated in Moss End Village Sunday 21st August from 10am until 4pm. These taster sessions are free, however if you would like to leave a donation for pancreatic cancer, I would be very grateful. If I am not on the stand, it will be because I am giving a treatment, so do please text me on the day and I will gladly book you in if I have availability. These sessions do tend to be popular.

Do come and say hello, ask any questions you might have and try a treatment. If you have any questions beforehand, please  call me on 07710722615.

There are many things happening on the day, including singing, a talent show and a silent auction. If you would like to find out more about all the events happening on the day, please visit https://www.facebook.com/MossEndGardenVillage

Bowen Therapy Taster Sessions at Moss End in aid of Pancreatic Cancer