Balancing act

Lorna Bowes discusses leadership, work-life balance, and the power of meditation

Aesthetic Source chief executive Lorna Bowes has built an impressive career in aesthetics, leadership, and business.

From her early days in nursing to becoming a leader in the aesthetics industry, Bowes has learned invaluable lessons about work-life balance, being a great manager, and the transformative power of meditation.

A CAREER ROOTED IN CARE

Bowes’ professional journey began with a desire to help others. “I wanted to love people to health,” she recalls of her nursing school days.

Specialising in dermatology in the 1980s, she later travelled the world before discovering aesthetic medicine.

“I read an article about injections and thought, ‘This is fascinating.’”

That curiosity led her to train in cosmetic injectables in 1993, and by 1996, she had founded her own chain of clinics, The Bowes Clinics, which expanded across the UK.

While treating patients brought her immense satisfaction, Bowes soon realised another passion — mentorship.

“Looking after my team and seeing them grow was just as fulfilling as treating patients. It was about creating a culture of care, honesty, and integrity.”

THE IMPORTANCE OF LEADERSHIP AND TRUST

Bowes’ leadership philosophy is built on trust. “If you don’t trust your team, they will never grow, and they will resent you for it,” she says.

She believes in giving employees the autonomy to manage their work schedules while maintaining accountability.

“We have structure in the office, but for those on the road, flexibility is key. As long as the work gets done, I trust them to manage their time.”

Her approach extends beyond business operations; it’s about fostering an environment where employees feel valued.

“There’s no place for a blame culture. If something goes wrong, we look at why and how we can fix it together.”

This leadership style was put to the test when Bowes faced a health crisis. Six years ago, she suffered a stroke —an experience that forced her to reassess her work-life balance.

“I was trying to juggle too much —raising three kids, caring for my mother, running a business, and dealing with a difficult marriage. It was too much, and my body shut down.”

Her team, led by general manager Carol, stepped in. “Carol changed my Microsoft password so I couldn’t log in. She knew I wouldn’t stop unless I was forced to. That experience taught me the power of reciprocal care —when you look after your team, they will look after you.”

MEDITATION: A GAME-CHANGER FOR LEADERSHIP

Bowes credits meditation with playing a crucial role in her recovery and leadership transformation.

After her stroke, she attended a meditation retreat, which helped her regain her vision and, eventually, her driving license. Now, meditation is part of her daily routine.

“I meditate every day. It has fundamentally changed the way I lead and live. It helps me stay present, clear-headed, and emotionally balanced.”

She runs a mediation group for healthcare professionals familiar with Dr Joe Dispenza’s work.

“Every Saturday morning, we come together to recharge. It’s beautiful, and it fuels me for the week ahead. I wish I had more time to teach my team meditation because I know the impact it can have.”

For those new to meditation, Bowes recommends starting small and using tools like MUSE, a device that provides real-time feedback on brain activity.

“It plays rainforest sounds, and the calmer you are, the gentler the sound. If your mind is too active, it starts storming —it’s an incredible way to train your brain to relax.”

RECOGNITION AND MOVING FORWARD

Despite her many accolades, Bowes remains humble. She is currently nominated for an industry award recognising her leadership and contributions.

“It’s an honour,” she says, though she is quick to credit her team. “They put me up for it —it’s really their achievement as much as mine.”

With her focus on mentorship, innovation, and well-being, Bowes continues to lead with empathy and authenticity.

“It all comes down to balance. If you don’t get it right, your body will tell you. Meditation, trust, and genuine care —those are the things that keep me going and help my team thrive.”

Through her commitment to balance and mindfulness, Bowes is not just leading a business —she’s creating a culture of wellbeing and success.