Alternative therapies made accessible 
Practitioners of holistic therapies have existed for decades with increasing acceptance in traditional western culture, but the lack of insurance coverage and co-pays kept them out of reach for many who could benefit. Native Toledoan Lesley Baker Bowen’s passion for wellness led her to found Holistic Hands Wellness Gallery, providing an array of therapies. The creation of this community space, offering a variety of healing services is a culmination of Bowen’s  passion for wellness and her life’s work.
Lesley studied music and completed pre-med requirements at Wittenberg University where she was also active on the volleyball and rowing teams. She completed her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at Ohio State University and has worked as an occupational therapist since 2007. 
During her time as a therapist, Bowen found herself drawn to a holistic approach to wellness, leading her to become a Reiki Master and CranioSacral Therapy Practitioner. Bowen’s CranioSacral Therapy practice treats patients ranging from age 98 to newborns, including treating little ones with feeding issues and tongue tie/lip pre- and post-revisions. 
Philosophy 
Bowen describes Holistic Hands Wellness Gallery (HHWG) as a non-profit providing access to holistic wellness.  “We recognize a growing need for assistance with mental health and wellness and strive to serve those in need by providing safe outlets and therapies, as well as opportunities for artistic expression.” 
The therapies are universal and can be applied in anyone’s life for both mind and body wellness. Bowen’s goal— to make these opportunities available and affordable— is supported by the Gallery’s financial assistance (if needed) and childcare during appointments, to give people a safe space to decompress and meditate. 
Current renovation
Renovations to HHWG’s building will ensure full accessibility and include an art gallery, highlighting local artists and the UToledo art department. Craniosacral therapy, massage therapy, Crystal Bowl Sound therapy, Meditation, Reiki, group fitness, and mindful art and creativity classes are some of the many offerings. 
To learn more about HHWG, Stay Well Session Samplers take place once a month when participants can experience 20-30 minute “tastes” of various classes/services/workshops. 
Creating HHWG, Bowen explained, “I can’t even express to you how much joy we as practitioners have each day at work. It feels wrong to even call it ‘work’— it’s the stuff of life for us! You can easily feel the love when attending retreats, functions and Stay Well Session Samplers.”
2086 Brookdale Rd.
567-218-3188
holistichandswellnessgallery.org
instagram.com/holistichandswg

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