Nervous System Response Bowen therapy acts at an interface between the peripheral and central nervous systems. Although the moves and procedures are applied to somatic tissues, the effects of the input extend, in real time, into the CNS. 13, 35, 36 For the therapist, this becomes clearly observable when the patient’ s body enters the Window of Symmetry.
Many schools of manual therapy, including Bowen therapy, claim that treatment helps the body to heal itself by evoking a heightened parasympathetic response. 2, 13, 18, 37 The parasympathetic nervous system is said to have craniosacral outflow because its neurons originate in the cranial and sacral regions of the CNS. 2, 3 Since the Window of Symmetry is achieved through targeting dysfunction specifically affecting dural attachment sites, we assert that the Window of Symmetry is an indication of a cranio-sacral response.
Building on this interpretation, we propose that the onset of the Window of Symmetry signifies a physiological transition from a prevailing mode of protection to a temporary mode of correction. We hypothesise that this illustrates enhanced parasympathetic activity which supports the ensuing process of restoration and reorganisation. Furthermore, we assert the enhanced parasympathetic response continues to facilitate changes associated with an ongoing healing process for the duration of the Window of Symmetry.
Conclusion
This article supports the notion that the great majority of symptoms seen in clinic are distant expressions of a central issue, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to assessment and treatment. When coupled with an understanding of neuromeningeal dynamics, holistic tonal assessment offers a valuable lens to view layers of dysfunction, to target treatment, and to evaluate therapeutic response.
For practitioners of complementary medicine, the goal of treatment is to restore function at key anatomical and physiological sites, thereby supporting and enhancing the body’ s inherent ability to self-regulate and heal. Holistic tonal assessment and the Window of Symmetry may serve as powerful tools to support this process. We propose that the Window of Symmetry reflects increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, which is closely linked to the body’ s natural healing mechanisms. As such, it offers visual and tactile confirmation of nervous system modulation, making it an unparalleled indicator for guiding and validating therapeutic interventions.
We hope that the foundational concepts of neuromeningeal dynamics, holistic tonal assessment, and the Window of Symmetry described herein will positively influence the way Bowen therapy is taught and practised.
Graham Pennington is a naturopath, acupuncturist, and Bowen therapist based in Warrnambool. He is the author of A Textbook of Bowen Technique: A Comprehensive Guide to the Practice of Bowen Therapy, which offers practitioners a holistic, assessment-driven approach to understanding and applying Bowen therapy. He conducts seminars and workshops in Australia and internationally.
Katrina Pennington is an acupuncturist and Bowen therapist who works in private practice. She presents seminars and workshops in Bowen therapy and Holistic tonal assessment techniques in Australia and internationally.
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