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Can I use other therapies at the same time as Bowen?
It is recommended that no other forms of manipulation are undertaken for two weeks after a Bowen session e.g. chiropractic, physiotherapy, acupuncture or massage. Magnetic therapy is not recommended for 5 days post Bowen therapy. However Homeopathy seems to work well with Bowen and this should be continued.
Is it okay for the farrier/trimmer to come out after a Bowen session?
It is advisable not to have the horse shod or trimmed two days either side of a Bowen session as these interventions can affect the success of the therapy.
Can I worm my horse after Bowen?
It is advisable not to administer worming drugs, routine vaccination (tetanus or equine flu) or have teeth rasped or two days either side of a Bowen session as these interventions can affect the success of the therapy.
How soon after Bowen can I ride my horse?
It is advisable not to ride your horse immediately after Bowen. Instead allow him/her to walk out for at least 15 minutes on the same day or to be turned out into a paddock. Do not keep the horse in a confined space where he/she cannot move about. Depending on the individual horse’s work routine, no strenuous exercise for 2-4 days. After the first session avoid lunging, tight circles and jumping and work the horse “long and low” in straight lines for a few days.
When is a good time to arrange Bowen for my horse?
Bearing in mind guidance about shoeing/trimming, worming and routine vaccinations choose a time when the yard is fairly quiet and there are few distractions (e.g. other horses being fed or turned out). It is also advisable to pick a time when you are happy to give your horse a day off, so his body can start to re-balance, rather than a day before a lesson or competition.
How many sessions will my horse need?
I usually recommend three sessions to see the greatest changes to most of the problems I see. It will depend on several factors however: the age of the horse, the severity of the problem and how long they have had the problem. As a general rule younger horses with conditions that have only been present for a few weeks recover more quickly than those older horses with longstanding issues.
Why might I need a Bowen ‘top-up’?
Over time everyone, horses and people, are subject to the stresses and strains of everyday life. This has an impact on the ability of the body’s systems to function fully and remain able to do the work demanded of them. By having regular Bowen top-ups (i.e. single sessions) the body can remain functioning to the best of its ability, old problems will therefore tend not to recur and the body is helped to maintain its peak performance.
Why might my saddle be causing a problem?
A poorly fitting saddle invariably causes pressures points on the muscles of the horses back.This leads to pain with the muscle going into a constant state of tension or spasm, which is very uncomfortable for the horse with a rider sitting on his back.This can lead to hind leg restriction, loss of shoulder movement or an inability to work in an outline. This pain can also lead to horses refusing to jump, bucking or becoming ‘spooky’ when out hacking.
PLEASE NOTE: The Bowen Technique is not intended as a subsitiute for medical advice or treatment. I recommend that you consult your doctor or veterinarian.