Ledbury Focus September 2019 Ledbury Focus September 2019 v2 | Page 59

hips, for example, we would use the pelvic procedure. If pain is being experienced in the shoulders we would use the shoulder procedure, and similarly, if pain and or deterioration is being experienced in the knee this would indicate the knee procedure. I will generally also look at nutrition for an individual, if this is relevant, and explore options for limiting certain foods that might be making symptoms worse, and increasing the foods that will help calm symptoms. Holistic treatment The body systems and parts that make up the whole work syner-gistically: each one is responsible for its own function but has to cooperate with the whole unit in order for the body to function at its optimum. If one of the systems is out of balance it will impact the other systems. The body always does its best however, and works hard to maintain its homeostasis or balance. The way in which Bowen works is truly holistic; it always looks to achieve the best balance for the body as a whole and in the most efficient way possible. In practice, I find it common for clients to experience improvement in other areas of health even when a session focused on treating a specific problem. When we consider the fact that Bowen works directly with the nervous system specifically affecting the nerves along the vertebral column, we can see how a multifaceted response is often experienced. A lot of the Bowen work is also carried out over specific energy systems, such as the meridians and chakra systems, adding yet another dimension to treatment. Bowen also works directly with fascia which probably needs an article of its own to discuss further! Lifestyle factors to help with arthritis • Hydration is vital to the balance of the body. I have known clients begin taking more water and the painful muscles that have plagued Ledbury Focus them for years have got better virtually overnight! • Posture is very important; the body needs plenty of variation, so if you work in a seated position have plenty of breaks and get up, stretch or even have a short walk. Make sure your desk is set up properly for you including desk and chair height and position. A good tip to remember when you are sitting is that your knees should be lower than your hips. • Exercise is important in supporting structural health, and getting enough appropriate exercise for your specific body type and health requirements is essential. Some of my favourite exercises include: walking, swimming, yoga or gentle stretching and pilates. • Nutrition is vital to support the body in general but especially when dealing with specific conditions. I have found in general that arthritic conditions respond well to certain supplements such as magnesium, sometimes more calcium, vit D and remedies such as rosehip or glucosamine. In a session I would test the individual to see what would specifically help them the most. • Bowen in my experience is a great therapy to help with the symptoms of arthritis in most of its forms. The main reason I believe it to be so successful is that it treats the whole body and has an impact on the nervous system and the fascia. Contact me for more information I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation so you can find out more about the therapies I practice and how they could help you. Contact me on T: 01531 579 035 or M: 07904 457 075, or via email on E: helen@complete- balance.co.uk You can also find out more information on my website: www.complete-balance.co.uk and don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter! 59