At Bowen College UK, we’re proud to have tutors who passionately share their expertise and personal journeys, enriching our Bowen community. In this post, Bowen Tutor Laura Van Tatenhove offers a gentle, thought-provoking reflection on the value of and how to rest, stillness, and doing less – ideas drawn from her recent personal blog, which we’re delighted to share excerpts from below.
Inspired by Jenny Odell’s How to Do Nothing, Laura weaves together personal insight, experience from her Bowen practice, and heartfelt praise for her clients who choose to prioritise their wellbeing in a culture that often rewards constant doing. She reminds us that making time for pause and learning how to rest is not only a healing act, but also a courageous one.
“What I love and admire about Jenny Odell’s book is how she argues the case for making time to daydream, to sit in nature, to observe the changing seasons, to breathe with intention… to make the time and space for a Bowen treatment. She says this is not a luxury or indulgence but absolutely necessary.”
Laura reflects on how many of her clients initially come seeking relief for something physical—back pain, migraines, sports injuries—but return again and again for something more profound.
“Over time they have come to understand the importance of that hour away from all the other pressures and time constraints in their life… They come to me to feel ‘whole’ again and this, I believe, takes courage and is no mean feat.”
This deepening awareness—of body, breath, and inner rhythm—is at the heart of Laura’s approach to both treatment and teaching. She acknowledges the real challenge so many of us face:
“There seems to be a lot of evidence to show that many of our physical, emotional and mental obstacles arise because we are over-stimulated and don’t give enough value to doing nothing. In fact, many of us just don’t know HOW to do nothing.”
Through Bowen’s slow pace and intentional pauses, Laura sees how clients begin to shift: tension softens, breath deepens, and a sense of clarity emerges. It’s this same quality of presence that she brings to her teaching at Bowen College UK—guiding future practitioners not only in technique, but in the art of holding space.
If you’re curious about the deeper potential of Bowen Therapy—not just to relieve pain, but to help people reconnect with themselves—Laura’s reflections offer a timely and moving perspective.
Laura’s Teaching Philosophy and Approach
Laura combines her extensive background in fine art, yoga, and remedial massage therapy to bring a unique perspective to her Bowen practice. With a Masters Degree in Fine Art, years of experience as a Lecturer in Painting, and numerous professional development courses, including human dissection workshops, she has developed a deep understanding of the body.
Laura uses her artistic skills and hands-on experience to create innovative ways of visualising and discussing the human form. She recognises Bowen Therapy as not only effective for various conditions but also as a powerful tool for enhancing body awareness and connection.
