S04E04 - The Bowen Method: A Gentle Approach to Healing - Genevieve Godward

S04E04 - The Bowen Method: A Gentle Approach to Healing - Genevieve Godward

Author: MentalHealth AE April 1, 2026 Duration: 33:10

In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Genevieve Godward, a Bowen therapist based in Dubai, to explore the Bowen Method, a gentle, non-invasive approach to healing that works by regulating the nervous system.


Genevieve shares her unconventional journey from the thoroughbred horse racing industry into alternative therapy, explaining how she first encountered Bowen therapy in Australia after years of physical strain and injury. Initially drawn to the method for its application with horses, she became deeply engaged after experiencing its effectiveness on herself and others, eventually training in human, equine, and small animal Bowen therapy.


The conversation explains how Bowen therapy uses light rolling movements over specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system, helping shift the body out of chronic fight-or-flight mode and into a parasympathetic state where healing, repair, and regulation can occur. Unlike invasive treatments, Bowen works by prompting the body to heal itself rather than forcing physical change.


Ali and Genevieve discuss the wide range of conditions Bowen can support, including musculoskeletal pain, digestive issues, stress-related conditions, chronic illness, mental health challenges, and recovery support. The discussion also highlights Bowen’s effectiveness with animals, emphasizing shared mammalian physiology and the benefits of a gentle approach for pets and horses.


The episode closes with reflections on stress, modern lifestyles, mental health, and the growing need for preventative and holistic care. Genevieve encourages greater self-awareness, nervous system regulation, and proactive wellbeing practices, positioning Bowen as a complementary therapy for both physical and emotional health.


#BowenTherapy #NervousSystemRegulation #HolisticHealing #AlternativeTherapies #MindBodyConnection #StressRelief #ChronicPainSupport #MentalWellbeing #NaturalHealing



Podcasters-

https://www.instagram.com/talktokhawaja/

https://www.instagram.com/dubaibowentherapy/


MHAE Website | https://www.mentalhealth.ae

MHAE Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/mentalhealthae


Tuning into Mental Health AE means entering a conversation grounded in the unique rhythms and realities of life in the United Arab Emirates. This isn't about abstract theories; it's a practical, compassionate dialogue focused on local well-being. Each episode stems from the initiative's core mission to build awareness and carve out a genuine safe space for listeners, offering tangible access to information and resources that resonate within this specific cultural context. You'll hear honest discussions that tackle the everyday stresses, societal pressures, and personal challenges people face here, all while navigating paths toward resilience and balance. The podcast serves as an audio extension of that supportive community, where topics range from managing anxiety and workplace burnout to fostering mindfulness and emotional health, always with a relatable, UAE-centric perspective. Hosted by the team behind MentalHealth AE, the episodes are designed to feel like a thoughtful chat with someone who gets it, providing both solace and actionable insights without judgment. It’s for anyone in the region looking to understand their own mind better or simply seeking a moment of grounded reflection amidst a fast-paced world.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Mental Health AE
Podcast Episodes
S04E13 - ADHD 360 Support - Nadia Mankani & Angela Marson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:07
In this episode of the MHAE Podcast, Ali Khawaja sits down with Angela Marson and Nadia Mankani of ADHD360AE for an insightful conversation about ADHD, education, parenting, and the systems we can build to better support…
S04E12 - Mind Body Connection - Alaa Eldakrouri [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:21
In this episode, Ali sits down with Alaa Eldakrouri, a legal counsel and holistic counselor whose own healing journey transformed the way she understands the connection between the mind, body, and emotions.Alaa shares he…
S04E11 - Managing Stress and Anxiety - Amal Abdulcebbar [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:48
In this episode, Ali sits down with licensed psychologist, Amal Abdulcebbar, for a thoughtful conversation about mental health, identity, and what it means to live a healthier, more intentional life. Together, they explo…
S04E10 - Cultural Stigma - Dr. Neelam Laxhman [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:07
Mental health conversations are becoming more common, but finding the right support can still feel overwhelming. In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Neelam Laxman to discuss breaking the stigma aro…
S04E09 - Stuck in the Stigma Cycle - Rehana Meghani [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:07
In this episode, Ali sits down with Rehana Meghani, a clinical and organizational psychologist, for a thoughtful conversation about mental health, stigma, generational trauma, parenting, and the importance of creating sa…
S04E08 - Women's Health - Sophie Smith [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:12
In this episode, Ali sits down with Sophie Smith, founder and CEO of NABTA Health, to explore one of the most overlooked areas in healthcare: women’s preventative health.Sophie shares the story behind NABTA Health, the f…
S04E07 - Coaching - Alaa Hamade [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:08
In this episode, Ali Khawaja sits down with Alaa Hamade, an ICF-certified professional coach, educator, and entrepreneur, for a practical and honest conversation about what coaching really is and what it is not. Together…
S04E06 - Full Circle Moment - Manahil Ijaz [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:07
In this episode, Ali Khawaja is joined by Manahil Ijaz, a marketing professional and community builder, to explore the power of authentic human connection, community spaces, and mental health awareness in modern urban li…