THE management of stress and maintaining general well-being, along with relief for a wide range of health problems can be helped by the Bowen Technique, a treatment developed in Australia.

It was created by Thomas Bowen, following an interest in massage and sports training.

His form of remedial therapy is gentle, effective and non-intrusive. The practitioner uses thumbs and fingers on precise points on the body making rolling type moves which aim to disturb the muscles, soft tissue and energy within the body. It helps the body to balance and re-align itself.

The Bowen Technique can help back and neck pain, knee problems, sports injuries, RSI, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, respiratory conditions, chronic fatigue, hayfever, and other difficulties.

Five free treatments are available for our readers, provided by Valentia Lithryn who practises at The Cross Clinic, Lymm.

Said Valentia : "There are very few complaints that do not respond to Bowen treatments. Treatments are extremely relaxing."

For treatment of problems two or three are usually needed, although one treatment will help with promoting general health. Many sports people use Bowen to stay at peak fitness.

The free treatments, which normally cost £25 each, will go to the first five people who ring in to the Cross Clinic before Tuesday (May 9), on 757513. The usual Guardian rules apply and no purchase is necessary.