Discover Laura van Tatenhove’s Journey, Insights, and New CPD Course on Functional Breathing
Laura van Tatenhove’s unique blend of expertise in Bowen Therapy, yoga-based breathwork, and anatomical art provides a rich and comprehensive perspective on the human body. As a dedicated Bowen Therapist and breathwork advocate, Laura has been transforming lives through her holistic approach to health and well-being. Her journey is a testament to her commitment to helping others understand and connect with their bodies more deeply and effectively.
A Passion for Bowen Therapy
Laura’s journey into Bowen Therapy began unexpectedly during a yoga class in the 90s. A friend used a few gentle Bowen moves to relieve her shoulder pain, leaving a lasting impression on her. Reflecting on her initial experience, Laura shared, “I didn’t really know I was having Bowen. I was practicing yoga, and I had a shoulder issue. Another yoga practitioner I was with said, ‘Oh, let me just have a little go with that.’ Lay me down, did a few moves, and that neck and shoulder pain had disappeared.”
Her curiosity piqued, Laura pursued further training in therapeutic forms and stumbled upon Bowen Therapy again while searching for solutions to back pain. In 2008, she enrolled in a Bowen module in Edinburgh and was instantly captivated. “I fell in love with it. It’s very subtle but also so clear to me,” Laura recalled. This newfound passion led her to complete several hands-on human dissection workshops, deepening her understanding of the body’s interconnected systems.
Integrating Breathwork into Therapy
The global health crisis in 2020 motivated Laura to expand her practice to include breathwork. With over 25 years of yoga practice and additional training with renowned experts like Lucas Rockwood and Patrick McKeown, Laura became a certified Breath Coach. She now teaches the anatomy of breathing and techniques to manage stress-induced ailments, improve immune function, and enhance cardio fitness. Laura’s dedication to breathwork stems from her belief in its profound impact on overall health.
“Breathing is with us 24/7, it’s free, and like Bowen Therapy, it understands that the body, with appropriate direction, has all the tools it needs to heal itself.”
Laura van Tatenhove
Introducing the “Better Breathing for Better Health” Course
Laura’s latest CPD course, “Better Breathing for Better Health,” is designed to provide therapists with an in-depth understanding of functional breathing and its importance in everyday health and well-being. This two-hour workshop equips therapists with practical tools to support clients in the treatment room and beyond.
Participants will learn to identify and address issues such as chronic neck and shoulder tightness, shallow breathing, blocked sinuses, and more. The course covers:
- Anatomy and physiology of breathing
- Up-to-date information on the benefits of good breathing practices
- Assessment tools to gauge progress
- Easy-to-learn exercises for daily practice
- A collection of resources for further reading and study
Why Breathwork Matters for Therapists
For therapists, understanding the intricacies of breathwork can significantly enhance their practice. Poor breathing habits can exacerbate a wide range of conditions, from chronic pain to anxiety. Laura’s course provides valuable insights and practical skills to help therapists address these issues effectively. As one participant, Abi Mills, noted, “This was such a great workshop. Really interesting and well laid out with exercises and information to help me understand why good breathing matters so much for my long-term health.”
Laura’s Ongoing Commitment to Holistic Health
Beyond her role as a Bowen Therapist and Breath Coach, Laura is deeply involved in the educational and research aspects of holistic health. She has created a series of anatomical sculptures and drawings, funded by the Arts Council, that explore the body’s interconnected systems. Laura’s commitment to continuous learning and innovation makes her a dynamic and inspiring figure in the field of holistic health.
Laura teaches the Bowen College UK’s Introduction to Bowen Therapy course, a two-day workshop open to anyone interested in exploring this gentle yet powerful therapy. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and helping students develop a solid foundation in Bowen Therapy. “I’ve never felt more supported, and there’s a real emphasis on building up a support community that’s not competitive. It’s actually really collegial at its foundation,” she says about her experience with Bowen College UK.
Join Laura’s Upcoming Courses
Laura’s dedication to holistic health extends beyond her practice. She teaches the Bowen College UK’s Introduction to Bowen Therapy course, a two-day workshop open to anyone interested in exploring this gentle yet powerful therapy. Laura is committed to helping students develop a solid foundation in Bowen Therapy, emphasising its potential to create positive change in the healthcare landscape.
For more information on Laura’s courses and to express your interest in her “Better Breathing for Better Health” workshop, visit her tutor page or email info@bowencollege.org.uk.
