Testimonials in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

Feb 2026

Client has had ME for a number of years and suffers with fatigue and aching muscles. Regular Bowen through till present. Feeling pretty good, some days better than others. Energy levels not as fatigued as previously, but still takes it easy. Is decorating, gardening and does something every day now.

After 2nd treatment stress levels decreased and back pain improving.

After further treatments. “Overall stress much better and my wife has noticed this. I tend to “let things go now””.

Pain across upper back.

One week after treatment. Pain better than it has been and doing exercises as well. Noticed a difference immediately.

Week 2. No pain, no niggles, pain has disappeared. “I do not understand Bowen but I am very happy with the treatment”>

My mobility has much improved and I am not aware of discomfort, as I was, all the time. Other treatments have not lasted as long as Bowen and without all the pulling and twisting in other treatments.

Being a pregnant woman with a sudden and painful back problem left me searching for treatment. Following recommondation Anita soon allocated a prompt appointment. The Bowen treatment Anita carried out saved me. I am sure she has magic hands”!

R Hardy April 2026

Being an engineer, I admit I was a shade dubious of having Bowen Treatment as it doesn’t involve the normal energetic massage or manipulation. But following an initial course of three treatments to address lower back, knees and feet issues, I feel like a new man! I now schedule monthly treatments to maintain a healthy body, with the added pleasure of a reason to stop for an hour and relax the mind. Highly recommended.

Loved treatment and felt relaxed. Each time left treatment felt better in myself, hard to explain, but more chilled as a person in such a short space of time. My eyes are better. Noticed I am walking with purpose and straighter. Shoulder pain has gone.

The treatment is unbelievable, I have no pain or stiffness and right side improved. My anxiety is so much better, I have been out and about since Bowen treatment. My tinnitus has improved. Mentally I am a lot better and physically good.

I am doing really well now since Bowen treatment. I have loads more energy and feeling better in myself. My left knee is fine only the odd twinge if I have been working too hard. Same with lower back. No sciatic pain since first visit and pelvic pain disappeared with realignment. Will definitely recommend Anita

Loved the treatment and felt relaxed. Each time she left treatment feeling better in herself, hard to explain but more chilled as a person, in such a short space of time.

My eyes are better and friends and family have noticed that I am walking better and with a purpose.

Right shoulder pain has gone.

Work on shingles last week really good and marks disappeared within a couple of days. I am really pleased

I have definitely improved after treatment. After my pelvis was straightened my partner and work colleagues noticed how straight I am and moving better. I feel better in myself.

Almost forgotten pain in right knee and when I go downstairs, I have almost forgotten that I had a problem.

On the whole my stress and anxiety is very good since my Bowen treatment, the best I have ever been and better than my physio treatment. I am recommending Bowen to my family and I think Bowen is brilliant. I was sceptical at first but now I’m singing Bowen’s praises from the hilltops.

Feels that Bowen has helped with her neck problem and flexibility. Drove for 5 hours and did not have any issues but normally this would cause her neck to be sore. Feels like a child free of pain, and has not felt like that for 15 years.

Feels much better since Bowen treatment, shoulder problem improved and reducing.

Anita is a miracle worker and has had a significant impact on helping me through the process of key exams be it before, during or after. I always come out feeling much more positive and relaxed after each session. She has also helped to restore significantly more movement to my neck, which has ben a previously unshakable problem! I have also seen the positive effects on family members

31.10.24

Just wanted to say how fantastic my leg/hip ache has been since my treatement – I gave it a while in case it wore off… but now even after a few long drives a grandson day and 2 heavy fitting days, All Good. I have referred you to a colleague.

Really pleased with Bowen results, especially my right knee which I rarely get a twinge in now.

Bowen is helping with my anxiety. I am now more relaxed, not as stressed. I am now able to visit friends and enjoy myself.

My friends have noticed that I am more perky

Having completed my Bowen treatments I feel as though I am now living, not existing. I am getting more jobs done and I feel better all round. I feel as though I have my spark back and my left knee has improved.

(Client attended 3rd treatment without a walking stick)

I have been a regular client of Anita’s for about 13 or 14 years now having been to her initially with trapped sciatic nerve…which, of course, she sorted out with her Bowen skills. Over the years I have had a veritable multitude of health problems which she has helped me with (too many to list). I want to mention my most recent problem, which I have had for a number of years, swelling of the knees (not arthritis). Anita has been using Reiki on me for a couple of months now and, like magic, the swelling has gone down and. I have been able , once again, to kneel. Thank you Anita, it is such a relief to know you are there. JW Se

Problem: misaligned finger/ring finger needing attention/heaviness in upper arm due to injury. Client unable to make a fist or use hand properly.

Client reports that she can now fully hold her steering wheel and she can bend her ring finger to touch her palm. No heaviness in upper arm.

I have found Anita to be very professional in every aspect of her work. She has helped with the lifting of my mood and aches and pains.

My scar therapy is amazing, you can hardly see large sections of it now. Thank you Anita

The last 6 months have been the best I have felt for over 2 years. Bought myself an exercise bike to help get my fitness up. Hopefully if the sciatica keeps at bay i plan to start playing golf again in the spring. Thank you Anita

Since Anita has used her Bowen skills on me I have felt more energised and clear headed. Also a lightness of spirit & greater positivity. I am very happy to continue seeing Anita and maintaining that sense of well-being.

I have found my treatments relaxing, I am pleased with the results, happy with the progress that has been made, and it has also improved my self-confidence.

Fibromyalgia

Since I be been having Bowen with Anita, I definitely feel better and much less pain in my body, plus a lot more energy

since

I contacted Anita to see if she could help with scar tissue problems following C section.

I could start to feel a difference in the movement and feel of the tissue surrounding my scar after the first treatment. After just 3 sessions I was able to wear jeans for a whole day again, something I’d not done in almost 2 years, because it was too uncomfortable.

Anita is compassionate and highly skilled. I am amazed and forever grateful at what she has been able to do for me and highly recommend her as a Bowen and MSTR therapist.

Alison

Hi Anita

Results from tests show no kidney stones, or anything nasty was found. And the pains have almost vanished completely. I put that down to your treatment and once again thank you that that. About five years ago when I had kidney stones, the pains only got better after you worked on me. There may be no stones this time but you have helped a lot with the pains. It made a big difference.

James

I moved to Bury St Edmunds just over a year ago and like with any house move, there are so many boxes to move as well as the endless decorating to be done. So much so, my lower back was a mess with various aches and sprains.

I have had the Bowen treatment several times in London before for frozen shoulders,knees, lower back and each time hadgreatresults. So much so, I booked 3 sessions withAnita. She is an extremely nice person and has over the last 20 years been providing Bowen technique here in Bury St.Edmunds. With her expertise, my lower back has now completely recovered!

I would have no hesitation in recommending Anita’s expertise and knowledge to anyone who suffers with back pain or other ailments,such as kness.

I consulted Anita about two therapies in both of which I found her to be considerate, kind, highly skilled and professional.

I would recommend her as a therapist.

Anita’s expertise in the Bowen technique helped the entire left half of my body recover. Her work on stress relief though is by far her greatest strength, helping me overcome the lead up to a divorce and helping me survive the stressful process that came with it. I would highly recommend Anita for anyone who is struggling right now.

Just wanted to email you and say the improvement since yesterday has been amazing! I can now stand straight with my weight on both feet and it feels so different from before! I can’t really describe what it is, but I just feel that my pelvic area has opened up and everything has sort of sunk down a bit so I now feel more ‘grounded’ and steady. I know that my left leg will never be as straight as my right, but I am now able to stand straight for the first time in maybe 20 years.

I actually kept stopping what I was doing last night and just ‘stood’ just to feel that sense of being evenly weighted. I can’t remember when standing straight last felt like that. It must be decades ago. I had just got so used to being slightly ’tilted’ that this was my normal for so long.

I did my exercises this morning and I even found that when I laid on the floor, that the small of my back was much closer to the floor. My back used to arch quite a bit so that laying on the floor would become uncomfortable, but it wasn’t this morning.

Can’t wait for the next treatment now!

Thank you!

I cannot recommend Anita highly enough. Her kindness, professionalism, and ability to listen are above and beyond expectations. Her experience and ability to offer bespoke Bowen techniques based on what she hears is exceptional.

For the first time in months, my pain and energy levels have improved tremendously impacting my quality of life (and that of those that live with me!). Anita was able to provide relief when all else seemed to be failing. I cant thank her enough and wish Id looked at her services sooner.

Having suffered with knee problems for several months a friend recommended a visit to Anita. I am delighted to say Anita worked her magic and after many frustrating and uncomfortable months I am now walking comfortably again and playing golf regularly.

Thank you Anita

I tried Bowen Therapy after months of agonising sciatic back and leg nerve pain and trying many different other forms of treatment. Anita and Bowen has been an absolute revelation! I had considerable improvement after just one session and vast improvement after the three session course of treatment. I am now back walking, cycling and playing golf. Quite simply, I have my life back so please dont be cynical about trying this form of treatment as it worked wonders for me. Dan Henning.

I went for the Bowen technique treatment for neck and head pain. After 3 treatments the headaches had gone and I had more movement in my neck. The treatment itself is super relaxing and the head treatment on my third session made me feel the most relaxed Ive been in ages, thanks to Anita.

I came to Anita with long standing bad back and shoulder injuries from sports. After 3 sessions I have seen massive improvements, I can now play sports without pain! Thank you Anita

I have had Bowen treatment before and Anita was recommended to me. I have had Anita’s usual 3 introductory sessions, treating me for spinal problems including scoliosis. I was immediately put at ease and I have experienced a considerable improvement particularly in respect of my neck.

I continue to find the Bowen treatment beneficial and I am happy to continue having my treatment from Anita and am pleased to recommend her.

We have all been out of Lockdown for approximately a year now and, optimistically, business and life seems to be resuming. It has been a long haul building back my business and I am now pleased to say that it is somewhere near where it was before the dreaded Covid.

There has been many changes for us during this turbulent time, but I have an observation that I would now like to make, and that is generally my clients are not quiet as mobile as they were before our enforced sedentary lives. Now, with the NHS in crisis and Doctors appointments difficult to obtain, it is essential that we take responsibility for our own health and do what we can to improve our health and mobility. One of the first things to go as we mature, if regular exercise is not taken, is our equilibrium, and its a sad day to lose ones confidence in our mobility. Muscle wastage can affect us very quickly.

I would just like to remind you of the importance of daily exercise, no matter how much or little, and this will help to keep our confidence. One good tip is to try and balance on one foot when brushing your teeth (you may have to hold onto the basin at first), but its good practice, and we dont have to take special time out of our days.

Back at work with Bowen, it has been heartening to receive such positive feedback and to see such wonderful results, but its not always possible for me to just carry out a treatment without my clients looking after themselves as well.

Thank you so much for your support and custom.

Anita

The Bowen treatment was very beneficial when I was recovering from my hip replacement and recently strengthening the muscles round my knee after a knee replacement.

The hour with Anita is beneficial but also very relaxing.

I high recommend the Bowen treatment,

I went to Anita for treatment for severe sciatica, with pain down the whole of the left side, struggling to get my socks on or turn in bed. My mobility improved after my first Bowen session and now, 3 sessions on my mobility is back to normal for me, and the pain considerably reduced, with periods of no pain at all.

Chatting to Anita has been a real tonic, I have appreciated her calm and soothing presence.

I am now sleeping better than I have done for months.

My initial Indian Head Massage was wonderful.

I just thought I would let you know. That since I last saw you, and have had 3 sessions with you, I have walked miles. You have given me my legs back Anita, and I cannot thank you enough for that. I went from stuck in the house, unable to move around the whole of the house, stuck on my bedroom at times, to even thinking of getting a temporary stair lift, to.. being able to go for a decent walk every single day again, and do you know what ? Got the first time in five years. I walked from my house to the town Center, and back again, and the following day I did it again. You have realy, realy helped give me legs back to me, and it has felt so liberating, and I have felt a great sense of freedom. My legs had made a lot of progress before they gave out months ago, and you know what happened next in that story, but you have helped turn that situation around, and you have given me my legs back. I could never thank you enough for that

I came to Anita with chronic headaches and back pains, I’ve had 3 sessions so far and with each session I have felt an improvement. Anita is very professional and thorough at what she does, I will certainly be visiting her in the future.

Anita is nothing short of a miracle worker! Bowen was suggested to me by a friend given that the cocktail of drugs I had been prescribed were not working or touching the pain. I went in with a walking stick hardly being able to move and after just one treatment I returned for my second treatment minus my walking stick and my pain was managed with just over the counter painkillers. After three treatments I was pain free. I now suggest Bowen to anyone who tells me they are in pain!

I contacted Anita Costello, a local Bowen Therapist, and have been so pleased with the results after three treatments. Having had persistent headaches/migraines for months and taking over-the-counter medication, practically daily, I have not needed to take tablets during that period which is an amazing result. I feel so much better. I will continue to have a treatment every 4-6 weeks to keep a long-standing lower back problem in check. I believe Bowen treatments keep my body in balance. I would happily recommend my therapist to others.

M Lambert

When I first met Anita to start Bowen, which was recommended from a friend, she made me felt at ease and was so nice and friendly. After my first session it was odd, good odd but I felt calm and relaxed and that evening I went home and was completely chilled and slept right through the night which I hadnt done for some time. After all three session I felt more ground and level headed, and also my tennis elbow felt better too.. I felt I had a lot lest tension in my body and was great

June 2021

I first learned of Bowen treatment when I was staying in Australia with a friend about 10 years ago. I was suffering

from tendonitis in one leg and I had a session with my friends practitioner. I liked the treatment model and when

I returned to England I set about looking for Bowen treatment.

I met Anita Costello as a result of my research and started sessions with her which I have accessed ever since.

I have found the treatment both physically effective and psychologically soothing. The subtlety of the delicate

hands on method together with the discreet acknowledgment of the bodys capacity to heal itself I find very

enabling.

Ms Costellos knowledge and quiet confidence is an essential part of the whole process. I am very lucky to have

experienced her skill and professionalism.

Anita’s expertise has made a considerable difference to my wellbeing. No invasive or painful treatment was used, she harmonises with the body to achieve results which improve general everyday living.

Had hearing problems, especially in left ear and went to Anita for Hopi Candles.

My hearing benefitted tremendously after the hopi ear candling. Very relaxing especially the massaging around the ears afterwards.

Thank you Anita, will definitely use you again.

Problem: Stress, back pain and headaches.

I could not do normal daily housework and my stress was preventing me from thinking clearly

Since Bowen treatment I have found that I am getting better after each treatment. My stress levels have lessened as well as my back pain.

Dear Anita

Having spent almost five months without my Bowen treatments I was, like most of your clients, delighted that you were able to return to work.

I had my treatment during your first week back and what a joy it was. I was experiencing very frequent bouts of knee pain during lockdown every two or three days which has completely stopped since my treatment, fantastic.

I also had a nasty fall resulting in cracked ribs which meant I was unable to sleep with pain during the night. I am delighted to report that since the night of my Bowen I have been able to sleep much more comfortably, HOORAY.

I just felt I needed you to know how happy I am that you are back at your excellent profession and helping so many people…..THANK YOU ANITA.

JW

Problem: Frozen shoulder, Achillies and achy joints which prevented me from doing any exercise.

Since Bowen I have been walking most days and using my arm. After years of achy joints, my Bowen therapy has certainly helped me feel better physically and emotionally.

Problem – Lower back pain, sleep, stress and anxiety, stomach

I suffered lower back pain and a trapped nerve in my leg for several months. Anita gave me four stretches to do twice a day, rest from training and I had three sessions of Bowen. The Bowen technique is very gentle and is not as physically intensive as a sports therapy massage. With Bowen, I have no pain, much more mobility and I can return to training.

Overall. I am feeling so much better and my sleeping pattern has improved significantly, as has my general wellbeing.

Problem – Stiff painful shoulder which stopped me from getting a full night’s sleep.

This was my first introduction to Bowen. It reduced my pain after only three appointments and I will continue with the treatment if the pain returns.

I thought the Bowen treatment was very good, I am feeling a lot better, mentally and physically. I am sleeping better and my aches and pains are not so bad at all

Problem: Respiratory/Asthma/Sinus

Results: I have much more energy and can breathe better. I feel so much brighter. After the second session, I have stopped using brown asthma inhaler. I have more enthusiasm and resumed cycling, walking and some dancing. My shoulder/back pain has improved and sinuses are better.

Problem: Lower back

Outcome: Amazing treatment and so gentle in the process. I am very grateful for the treatment

Problem. Frozen Shoulder on one side and painful shoulder on the other.

Limitations: Raising my arm and not sleeping very well.

After Bowen: I have better mobility and less pain. I suffered with a frozen shoulder for 10 months. Physiotherapy made it worse. Having had 3 treatmentsmy frozen shoulder is much better and my other shoulder is improving. I also feel much better overall as the pain had got me down at times.

Trapped nerve in leg, hospital advised I could be in pain for 6 weeks. Could not walk, sit, drive or sleep well.

During my Bowen treatment I was advised to do stretching exercises which I did regularly, even during my discomfort.

After just 3 sessions of Bowen I am a fit man again at the age of 67. Well done Anita and thank you for the Bowen Technique.

Problem: Lack of leg strength and balance, some double vision when looking up. Unable to walk properly and any distance.

After Bowen. Walking for 30 minutes regularly and some improvement in distance. Vision affecting balance.

Not yet back to normal but as a long-term problem not expecting a quick fix.

Stiff Neck, unable to fully turn left and right, Occasional aching left side of body, Back Ache

Since my treatment the stiffness in my neck is gradually decreasing and the exercises have certainly helped with my neck and back ache.

I would recommend this treatment

Thank you so much Anita for your analysis, guidance and treatment of my lower back problem.

Your examination spotted something to so called “professionals” missed.

Finally I feel on the road to a pain free future.

Many, many, thanks

Hopi Candles

Very calming experience. My ears were checked before the start to make sure all was well. No pain from candles, very relaxing massage afterwards.

I have been suffering from Achilles tendonitis for some time and tried many different sports therapies and treatments but still get very sore when running. A friend of mine recommended this treatment. Initially I was sceptical because the treatment is far more light touch than other physio style ones. However after 3 sessions where Anita has used a holistic whole body approach I am definitely less sore. I have increased the length of my evening walking and had a light 3km run and it is better. Dont expect miracles and remember to still keep up any other treatments or interventions but listen to Anita, trust and believe in this and I am sure you will find it is a useful addition to helping your condition mend.

I was unable to turn my head and neck fully and experienced considerable pain.

Since Bowen I have more movement and less pain.

Anita successfully treated a hip and neck problem.

I thoroughly enjoy the experience and leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.

I have benefited from having the Bowen treatment in a number of ways:-

My general well being has improved, I have lost weight, I’m sleeping more and I just feel so much better about myself.

Neck stiffness and unable to get out of bed.

Since my treatment it is terrific that I can get out of bed as normal – really great

Presenting with neck and shoulder pain.

Unable to turn my head, full rotation restricted.

Anita came highly recommended from her results with friends. Since having my treatment my mobility is much improved and I am feeling more relaxed

Lower Back Problems, aching joints, anxiety.

I have had improvements with my ailments in the 3 sessions and I would recommend Anita and the Bowen Treatment

Presenting with long-term back pain which prevented me doing anything associated with using my back.

Since having my Bowen treatment my back pain is improving and I feel better in myself.

I felt that my body was out of balance after an operation. I felt dizzy and was anxious.

After Bowen I feel much better and my anxiety and dizzy spells have nearly gone. I have started exercising again, and people have noticed how much brighter I look. Bowen has also helped with my headaches, back problems and general well-being.

Discomfort walking, sitting, laying down, anxiety and eating

After second treatment I had extreme tiredness.

Now all areas have improved, although some got worse first.

I can deal with my IBS better now.

Complaint: Stress and related ailments such as tight shoulders, neck and back which prevented me from leading a calm life.

Bowen has helped me to relax and I believe regular treatments have enabled me to live a more relaxed life and really helps with my all round well being.

Complaint: Discitis (severe pain affecting every disc in the spine)

How benefited from Bowen: I am in a lot less pain, I feel that I am now moving forward after a year of immobility after having Discitis. Bowen has also helped me mentally, as I feel more relaxed.

Lower back Pain and Sciatica, preventing me from moving properly.

I have been able to resume moving properly and my back feels much more relaxed during daytime movement.

10th May 2017

January 2017

Due to a fall I had suffered back pain for a couple of weeks. I had problems sleeping and was relying on pain killers.

I experienced instant relief after my Bowen treatment and can recommend Anita

Mr. L. Otton

One of my biggest difficulties is my balance which has meant that I have had lots of accidents from falling over. Since starting Bowen the most significant different to me has been finding my balance and posture again. My posture was out of line from a previous accident and Anita detected this early, working on my alignment and this in turn helped tremendously with my balance. Bowen to me has made a huge difference to my daily life.

Painful back which affected my whole being

Most household jobs were causing pain

Since having Bowen treatment I have got “My life back” and I am able to carry on with the day to day routine.

Lower back pain, muscular or nerve.

Not able to play impact sports. Since treatment walking much better and will return to sports next week.

The treatment has enable me to walk easier and move with a more relaxed degree of mobility. Although there remains an awareness of the pain in my right near hip area. The treatment is a pleasant experience.

Pain due to Arthritis, Neuropathy and Stress.

Problems doing everyday things and hobbies. Since Bowen have returned to normal.

I feel it has helped my stress levels and I am getting less uptight over simple matters. I am much calmer in myself. My shoulder pain has decreased.

Problem with Balance and Well Being which interfered with my everyday life.

To a large extent I have resumed a normal life.

Each Bowen treatment is different but so beneficial. The treatment for achilles tendon problem was great, problem resolved very satisfactorily. A balance issue was corrrected. General good feeling after every treatment.

Problem – stiff back which went into spasm during sleep

I have had Bowen treatments, the spasms have stopped completely, and I am able to enjoy a full night’s sleep.

I am a regular long distance runner and my body takes a lot of punishment from up to 40 miles a week on pavements. The Bowen treatment has helped me keep injury, and most importantly, pain free. I would highly recommend Anita to any runner.

Problems with Sciatica and Shoulder Problems.

Found this treatment really helped with my sciatica and found the treatment relaxing and helpful for my shoulder problem.

Problem – Back, Neck and pins and needles in knees

Restriction? – Everything

Recovery – Fully

The treatment has made me feel better, the pain has completely gone and I can get back into my routine.

I would advise anyone to come to Anita

Problem – shoulder, Effect – could not play music or lift

Recovery – Fully

My shoulder feels so much more flexible and I would highly recommend this treatment. Anita is so friendly, thank you.

My work is very physical and I have suffered Back Pain for over 20 years. Since receiving The Bowen Treatment from Anita I do not suffer Back Pain any more and this has given me a new lease of life. My health and wellbeing has also improved, my health is really good and any problems can be remedied during my regular treatments.

I had a neck problem and was feeling uncomfortable. Bowen hasimproved my neck so much.

I love having Bowen, it makes me feel so much better, inside andout, and I have recommended it to so many people.

“Problem: Back/Neck/Headaches/Period Pains

Prevented me from: Doing my job properly, affected my hobbies and my sleeping

Experience: After several visits to the GP with no joy, only the offer of drugs which made me feel dreadful, I found my wonderful Bowen Therapist. Bowen has changed my life, I could not live without it, I still have flare upsbutBowen helps me get back on track. My pain level is better, I sleep better my general health and improved no end. I have total faith in this treatment.”

“Back Pain preventing me from walking normally.

Bowen therapy helps my whole body, keeping it mobile and comfortable. What the Therapist actually does is a mystery but treatments definitely work and I would be loathe to do without it.”

“Back Pain, unable to stand straight or exercise.

I have found with Bowen that I am more supple and do not suffer from aches and painsas I used to. I find my Bowen therapist listens to what I have to say and acts upon it. I always feel better afterwards.”

“I had painful neck and shoulders and it hurt to bend my head for any amount of time or to twist my head.I definitely benefited from Bowen, besides my neck and shoulders feeling considerably easier, I also feel better generally. I tend to be a ‘glass half empty’ kind of person but since Bowen I have felt so much more relaxed and happier. Also I am sleeping better.”