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 finger and thumb rolling, and heel of hand movements that are 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 fascial and nervous system to address imbalances or discomfort within the body. Unlike forceful manipulations found in other therapies, Bowen Therapy is a gentle 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 on the horse's body. Each set of moves are followed by short a pause, 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, stretching, chewing, 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 healing, 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 movement, 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 technique that uses precise rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and fascia to stimulate the horse's natural healing processes. This non-invasive therapy helps reduce pain, improve flexibility, and restore balance without the use of force or medication.
The treatment consists of sequences of light, rolling movements applied to specific areas of the horse's body, followed by short pauses. These pauses allow the horse's nervous system to process the signals, promoting natural healing, releasing muscular tension, and encouraging overall balance and relaxation.
Yes, Bowen Therapy is safe and suitable for horses of all ages, breeds, and physical conditions (with veterinary approval if necessary). It's gentle and non-invasive, making it ideal for young horses, seniors, those recovering from injury, or managing chronic pain.
Equine Bowen Therapy supports a wide range of issues including muscle stiffness, joint pain, back discomfort, lameness, behavioural changes linked to pain, stress, and injury recovery. It's effective for improving mobility, reducing tension, and enhancing overall wellbeing.
The number of sessions varies depending on your horse's specific condition and response. Many horses benefit from an initial course of three treatments, followed by regular maintenance sessions. Your therapist will tailor a treatment plan to suit your horse's individual needs.
No, the therapy is gentle and typically very relaxing for horses. Many show signs of relief such as yawning, licking, or shifting weight comfortably during or after treatment.
Sessions usually last between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated and your horse's needs. The first session may take up to 90 minutes to include a thorough consultation and assessment.
Some horses show immediate improvements such as increased relaxation and mobility, while others may take several days for full benefits to appear. Bowen Therapy often works progressively, delivering long-term improvements with ongoing treatment.
You can book an appointment by contacting Surrey Equine Bowen directly via phone, email, or the online booking form available on the website. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.
Session fees vary depending on treatment length and location. Please refer to the pricing page for current rates. Payments can typically be made via cash or bank transfer. Detailed payment instructions will be provided at booking.
During the session, your horse will receive gentle rolling movements over specific muscle areas, interspersed with short pauses to encourage the body's natural healing response. The environment is calm and relaxed, and many horses appear soothed throughout.
Aftercare is minimal but important. It's recommended to allow your horse plenty of rest and fresh water following treatment. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours to let the body integrate the changes. Your therapist may provide personalized advice depending on your horse's condition.
Yes, Surrey Equine Bowen offers mobile therapy within Surrey and the surrounding areas. If you are located outside this radius, please contact us to discuss travel options.