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Health, like life, is a journey
Aslan Shand
Life is a journey that is made up of a myriad of experiences that complement, build upon, and contradict one another. Part of ensuring a positive life is keeping healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually and the way to do that is different for every person.
As we explore what works, and what doesn’t, for us individually, as families, as friendship groups, and as a society, we need to take a positive approach to the range of opportunities life presents and create an effective way to sustain ourselves and those around us.
Every time I am unwell, need to have something done to maintain my health or wellbeing, or it just plain old turns out I’m not invincible and I am ageing after all – I am reminded that having as good health as possible makes life just that little bit easier for me, my chosen family, and friends.
Taking the traditional approach to health is one way forward and as modern medicine continues to develop using testing and methodologies that provide provable, positive outcomes I am absolutely grateful. The chances of recovery from some health challenges would be minimal to zero without modern, scientific medicine and the advances it has made, and continues to make.
There is also the fact that not all medicines work equally with all patients. Side effects can be non-existent for one person and deadly for another, while for another, the treatment just doesn’t have the expected impact. When testing medicines, part of the testing procedure is to use a placebo, that is a harmless substitute such as a sugar pill or saline injection instead of the treatment, that allows scientists to see the difference between the impact of the drug they are testing against not using it. An important part of understanding how a drug works and how effective it is.
However, there is also what is called the placebo effect. This is where there is a measurable impact from just taking the sugar pill or saline injection even though there is no actual benefit to it. The power of the mind…
When staring down the tunnel of serious health and life challenges then there is no doubt I would be looking around for what others say might be working for them in a similar situation.
The reality is that there are many things we do not understand about the human condition, and as a species we are inventive, experimental, and creative and this leads us to try an enormously wide range of experiences and possible solutions to how we exist in and interact with our world. This can lead to some pretty crazy ideas but it can also lead to some amazing solutions.
For each of us what works and what doesn’t can be individual, expansive, and potentially lead to better outcomes. One area that the Northern Rivers has long been at the forefront of is the use of cannabis as not just a way to get high but as a way to treat a wide range of physical, mental, and spiritual conditions. While in NSW it is still illegal to grow your own pot plants there are many people and groups who have long fought for the right to treat themselves and others with the benefits of this plant. Slowly the tide has been changing and now the benefits of cannabis for health treatments, for sustainable building, and for textiles, among other benefits, are being recognised. Similarly psilocybin, better known as magic mushrooms or gold tops, are also being used successfully to help people with PTSD, anxiety, trauma, and other conditions.
Similarly this region is known for its traditional, novel, and experimental ways of looking at the world, helping us understand ourselves and the universe. While I’m still not sold on my mother’s attempts at treating everything with sunshine through various colours in bottles, or selling my warts to a friend to get rid of them, there are some really interesting ways that work for people to heal and integrate a range of holistic treatments to improve their lives.
Health, like life, is a journey. We don’t know what it will throw at us or how we will respond, but the fact that there is more than one way to approach healing and that we can do it in a holistic and multi-modal approach using all the knowledge, wisdom, and inventiveness out there is something I am extremely grateful for.
Study Health at Southern Cross University
Byron Community College – health & wellbeing courses in Mullumbimby & Byron Bay
Krishna Village: Certified RYT-200 Yoga Teacher Training
Study Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University
Caahm Kinesiology Academy
Mind Medicine Australia: Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies
Ambassador for the Avatar® Course – Moni Jowsey
Life Cykel® – The World’s Most Trusted Mushroom Extracts
Mullum Herbals & Bruns River Herbals
Flannerys Organic Wholefood Wellness Market, Murwillumbah
Nimbin Herbs
Santos Organics has your health needs covered WholeLife Healthfoods Markets Tweed Heads
The Returning, Bundjalung Country
Byron Bay Healing Rooms, Mullumbimby
Wildforest Folk – Transformative Forest and Nature Therapy
Melissa Zimmerman, Registered Health Professional, IV Vitamin Therapy Specialist
Deep Listening Counselling for Couples and Individuals
Jacinta McEwen ND – Om Healing, Naturopathic and Ayurvedic
My Gut Store – Belle Eder, Gut Specialist, Herbalist
Kinesiology North Coast – Sandra Davey
The Secret Byron Bay – Regenerative Aesthetic Skin Clinic
Alaia Harvie, Traditional Japanese Acupuncture – Refocus Wellness
Kate Messenger Kinesiology & Crystal Healing
Vicki Veranese oRAcle
Sunita R Gerstner, Results Coach & Metaphysical Healer
Blue Mind Health – Hypnosis & Neurofeedback
Lin Bell, Kinesiologist, Trauma Counsellor, Somatic Healer, Kinesiology Training
Natwah Petruszka, Holographic Kinetics
Caroline McKenna, Transformational Mind Body Therapist
Empathy Catalyst – Communication Coaching with Melinda
Osteopathy and Holistic Health – Lismore and Byron Shire
Byron Massage Clinic
Thai Sabai Traditional Massage
Artemis – Unique & Unusual Bodywork & Massage
Bodywell Massage
Byron Bay Detox Retreats
Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Byron
Gaia Retreat & Spa
KV Wellness – at Krishna Village Yoga Retreat
Elements of Byron Rebalance Retreat
Osprey Spa at Elements of Byron
Sweet Retreats at Sugar Beach Ranch
Shirsha Marie – Tai Chi, Qigong & Body Psychotherapy
Dr Sam Gartland – Life Medical Mullumbimby
Northern Rivers Podiatry, Byron Bay
Rightfoot Podiatry & Footwear Clinics
Mediflora Organic Health – alternative healthcare clinic
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a clinically-proven, non-invasive therapy that employs targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific regions of the brain, with the goal of alleviating depression.
*Eligibility criteria apply.
61, 1 Porter Street, Byron Bay, NSW. northcoasttms.com.au
The Byron Healing magazine and website are proudly produced by www.echo.net.au © 2025 Echo Publications Pty Ltd – ABN 86 004 000 239 64 McGoughans Lane, Mullumbimby NSW 2482 02 6684 1777
Editor: Aslan Shand
Contributors: Eve Jeffery, David Lowe, Mandy Nolan
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Byron Healing online: www.byronhealing.com.au
If you like what you see in this magazine, be sure to check out the Byron Healing website. A comprehensive website including articles and detailed listing of all of the healing practitioners, businesses and services in this magazine. Follow us online: @byronhealing
If you would like a free hard copy of Byron Healing sent to you, or you would like to be on the mailing list for next year’s edition, email byronhealing@echo.net.au with your name and address. Offers and services listed in this directory are current at the time of publication but are subject to change. The views expressed in this publication are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher.
Glossary of Terms
Please note: Numerous dictionaries and websites have been consulted in compiling this glossary. While not a comprehensive list, we have included most of the major healing terms and some of the trademarked techniques utilised by Byron Healing practitioners.
Acupuncture
A system within complementary medicine in which fine needles are inserted through the skin at specific points along what are considered to be lines of energy (meridians) – used in the treatment of various physical and mental conditions.
ADHD
Stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A condition characterised by difficulties with executive function, lack of focus, hyperactivity, and/or impulsiveness. The three subtypes of ADHD are inattentive, hyperactiveimpulsive, and combined.
Alchemy
The medieval forerunner of chemistry, concerned with the transmutation of matter, in particular with attempts to convert base metals into gold or find a universal elixir.
Anima healing
In the context of Jungian psychology, “anima healing” refers to the process of integrating the feminine archetype (the Anima) within a man’s psyche. This process involves acknowledging, understanding, and incorporating the inner feminine qualities – such as emotionality, creativity, and intuition –that are often repressed or overlooked in male-dominant cultures.
Apothecary
An archaic English term for a medical professional who formulates and dispenses materia medica (medicine) to physicians, surgeons and patients.
Aromatherapy
The practice of using the natural oils extracted from flowers, bark, stems, leaves, roots or other parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical wellbeing. The inhaled aroma from these oils is believed to stimulate brain function.
Art therapy
A form of psychotherapy involving the encouragement of free self-expression through painting, drawing, or modelling, used as a remedial or diagnostic activity.
Ayurvedic medicine
A system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. Modernised practices derived from Ayurvedic traditions are a type of complementary or alternative medicine. Ayurvedic therapies and practices have been integrated in general wellness applications and as well in some cases in medical use.
Biologial decoding
This is about understanding what biological conflicts we experience when we’re under stress and how these conflicts affect our body if we’re unable to release the accumulated stress.
Biomimetic
Using the structure and function of biological systems as models for the design and engineering of materials and machines.
Bowen therapy
The Bowen technique is a type of physical manipulation named after Australian Thomas Ambrose Bowen (1916–1982). Bowen therapy has been used to treat musculoskeletal or related neurological problems including sports injuries and chronic conditions.
Chiropractic
A therapeutic system based primarily upon the interactions of the spine and nervous system, the method of treatment usually being to adjust the segments of the spinal column.
Clinical psychology
An integration of science, theory and clinical knowledge for the purpose of understanding, preventing, and relieving psychologically-based distress or dysfunction and to promote subjective wellbeing and personal development.
Colonic
Irrigation of the colon for cleansing purposes.
Counselling
Professional activities that utilise an interpersonal relationship to enable people to develop self-understanding and to make changes in their lives, focusing on specific problems and fostering clients’ wellbeing. At advanced levels of training, counselling has a greater overlap with psychotherapy than at foundation levels.
Craniosacral therapy
A system of alternative medicine intended to relieve pain and tension by gentle manipulations of the skull regarded as harmonising with a natural rhythm in the central nervous system.
Crystal healing
A holistic, non-invasive, vibrational energy-based system of healing. The technique uses precisely placed crystals either on and/or around the physical body. Crystals may also be laid in precise geometric patterns (grids) within the environment.
Cupping
A Chinese medicine therapy in which heated glass cups are applied to the skin along the meridians of the body,
creating suction and believed to stimulate the flow of energy.
Dry needling
A physical therapist uses a thin filiform needle to penetrate the skin and stimulate underlying neural, muscular and connective tissues for the evaluation and management of neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments.
Eco therapy
A form of therapy that uses nature and the outdoors to improve mental and physical wellbeing.
Electrodermal screening (EDS)
A form of computerised information gathering and analysis based on physics, not chemistry.
Elixir
A magical or medicinal potion or solution.
Endocannabinoid
Any of several chemical compounds (as anandamide) that are naturally produced within the body and bind to the same brain receptors as compounds (e.g. THC) derived from cannabis.
Equine-assisted therapy (EAT)
EAT encompasses a range of treatments that involve activities with horses and other equines to promote human physical and mental health.
Esoteric
The word esoteric in its ancient meaning, means ‘inner-most’. A place that is found equally in every human being, irrespective of age, gender or race. One who ‘lives the esoteric’ lives deeply connected to their soul and the one soul that unifies us all.
Ethnobotany
A field of study that investigates the relationships between people and plants, particularly focusing on the traditional knowledge and uses of plants by different cultures.
Flower essences
Remedies made from the dew or essences of flowers. There are flower essences produced in almost every country from native flowers. A prominent practitioner was Dr Edward Bach (1886–1936).
GAPS
Stands for Gut and Psychology Syndrome. GAPS treatments were created by Dr Natasha CampbellMcBride in 2004 after working with neurological and psychiatric conditions such as autism, ADHD, and psychiatric problems. GAPS practitioners work on diets suitable for treating the syndrome.
Herbalism
The study or use of the medicinal properties of plants. A herbalist prepares and uses herbs for medicinal purposes or to supplement a person’s diet.
Holistic
Emphasising the importance of the whole and the interdependence of its parts.
Holographic Kinetics
Works with the spirit of a person to change the hologram that was created in a dimension of time.
Homeopathy
A system of alternative medicine created in 1796 by Samuel Hahnemann, based on his doctrine of ‘like cures like’ (similia similibus curentur), a claim that a substance that causes the symptoms of a disease in healthy people would cure similar symptoms in sick people.
Hydroxy sessions
In the context of health and wellness, refers to AirPod Hydroxy therapy, a treatment that combines hyperbaric oxygen therapy with hydrogen therapy.
Hypnotherapy
A form of psychotherapy that facilitates suggestion, re-education, or analysis by hypnosis, which is generally defined as a trancelike state that resembles sleep but is induced by a person whose suggestions are readily accepted by the subject.
Infrared sauna therapy
A sauna that emits heat and light to penetrate deep within the muscles, tissues and cells for detoxification of the body, improvement of circulation, pain relief, weight loss, skin purification and healing and relaxation.
Integrative medicine
Defined as healing-oriented medicine that takes account of the whole person, including all aspects of lifestyle. It emphasises the therapeutic relationship between practitioner and patient.
Kinesiology
A complementary therapy that encompasses holistic health disciplines (as defined by the Australian Kinesiology Association). Through the art of gentle muscle monitoring, kinesiologists communicate with the body’s innate intelligence to identify and clear underlying stresses to facilitate and promote health and wellbeing.
Lymphatic drainage massage
A form of gentle massage that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It can help relieve symptoms of lymphedema.
byronhealing.com.au
Massage
The art of treating the body by rubbing, kneading, patting, or the like, to stimulate circulation, increase suppleness, relieve tension, etc. There are many different types of massage therapies.
Meditation
A method of religious contemplation or spiritual introspection, cultivating a sense of awareness of self without daily distractions. There are many different types of meditation, from concentrating on one’s own breath to walking mindfully.
Medium (psychic)
Uses psychic or intuitive abilities to see the past, present and future events of a person by tuning in to the spirit energy surrounding that person.
Metaphysical healing
Based on the belief that negative mental patterns can result in physical disease or illness, and that the reversing of those negative mental patterns into positive patterns can in turn lead to healing.
Microbiome testing
Measures the different levels of microorganisms present in the GI tract.
Mindfulness
A technique in which one focuses one’s full attention only on the present, experiencing thoughts, feelings, and sensations but not judging them.
Naturopathy
An holistic approach to wellness based on the principle that the body has the inherent ability to heal itself. Using the healing power of nature and gentle therapeutic techniques, the body, mind and emotions are supported during the healing process.
Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP)
An approach to communication, personal development, and psychotherapy created by Richard Bandler and John Grinder in California in the 1970s. Proponents say there is a connection between neurological processes (neuro-), language (linguistic) and behavioural patterns learned through experience (programming), and that these can be changed to achieve specific goals in life.
Neuro-training
Using the advances in neuroscience as a primary reference, neuro-training reconditions how you view your life experience. It retrains the patterns of how your subconscious thinks your life should be and allows you to move beyond those challenges. It helps you develop new habits so that your unsupportive habits don’t have you responding in a predictable way.
Neurofeedback
A method that assists subjects to control their brain waves consciously.
Nutritional medicine
Based on the principle that nutrients, including essential micronutrients, are required for the proper functioning of all the biochemical processes on which our bodies depend. When treating symptoms or diseases, practitioners look for underlying causes which, although often partly genetic, are tied up with nutritional and environmental factors.
Occupational therapy
A healthcare profession that helps people overcome challenges in performing daily activities and participating in meaningful occupations due to injury, illness or disability.
Osteopathy
Emphasises massage and other physical manipulation of muscle tissue and bones to treat dysfunction. Osteopaths focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves and circulation work together to improve health and wellbeing.
Physiotherapy
The treatment of disease, injury, or deformity by physical methods such as massage, heat treatment, and exercise rather than by drugs or surgery.
Pilates
A physical-fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Often using various apparatus, Pilates classes build strength, flexibility and lean muscle tone with an emphasis on lengthening the body and aligning the spine.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
A psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, series of events or set of circumstances. An individual may experience this as emotionally or physically harmful or life-threatening, affecting their mental, physical, social, and/or spiritual wellbeing.
Pranic healing
The word pranic stems from the Sanskrit word prana meaning ‘vital life force’. It involves a healing practice that utilises prana or ki energy.
Prayer
A form of communication with the divine, a way for humans to connect with a higher power or supernatural realm.
Psychedelic therapies
Sometimes referred to as psychedelicassisted psychotherapy (PAP) is a type
Glossary of Terms
of psychiatric practice that involves ingesting a psychedelic substance as part of a psychotherapeutic process.
Psychology
The scientific study of the mind and behaviour, encompassing a wide range of topics from the biological processes of the brain, to individual experiences and social interactions. It seeks to understand how and why people think, feel, and behave, with applications in areas like mental health, education, relationships, and work.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy uses psychological theories and interpersonal relationships to enable individuals to obtain assistance in exploring and resolving issues of an interpersonal, intrapsychic, or personal nature.
Quigong
A system using coordinated bodyposture and movement, breathing, and meditation, said to be useful for the purposes of health, spirituality, and martial arts training.
Raindrop Technique®
The Raindrop Technique® combines targeted massage and energy approaches with authentic essential oils for a harmonising, rejuvenating, and relaxing massage.
Reflexology
A system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, based on the theory that there are reflex points on the feet, hands, and head linked to every part of the body.
Reformer Pilates
Combines the traditional principles and movements of mat Pilates with a Reformer machine. This machine contains a foot bar, carriage, pulleys, and five springs of varying tension that can be adjusted to suit your fitness level or needs.
Reiki
A healing technique based on the principle that the therapist can channel energy into the patient to activate the natural healing processes of the patient’s body and restore physical and emotional wellbeing.
Shamanism
According to shamanism.com, shamanism is an ancient healing tradition and way of life. Shamanic teachings focus on our connection to nature and all of creation.
SIBO breath test
The small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) breath test is a noninvasive test that measures the amount of gases produced by bacteria in the small intestine.
Somatic experiencing / somatic psychology
Somatic psychology is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on somatic experience, and the embodied self, including therapeutic and holistic approaches to body. Body psychotherapy is a general branch of this subject, while somatherapy, eco-somatics and dance therapy, for example, are specific branches of the subject.
Somatics
Somatics is a field within bodywork and movement studies which emphasises internal physical perception and experience.
Sound healing
Sound has been utilised in various cultures as a tool for healing. The intention is to alter a brainwave state positively by using rhythm and frequency generated by drumming, tuning forks, singing bowls, and so on.
Tai chi
An internal Chinese martial art practiced for self-defence and health. Known for its slow, intentional movements, tai chi has practitioners worldwide and is particularly popular as a form of gentle exercise and moving meditation, with benefits to mental and physical health.
Tarot
Set of playing cards, traditionally a pack of 78 with five suits, used for fortunetelling and (especially in Europe) in certain games.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
Acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. Dysfunction can lead to pain and discomfort.
Vedic astrology
Also known as Jyotish, is a traditional Hindu system of astrology rooted in the Vedas, the ancient sacred texts of Hinduism. It explores the influence of celestial bodies on human lives, using a detailed system that goes beyond the simple zodiac signs of Western astrology.
Yoga
Originally a school of Hindu philosophy and mental disciplines creating a union between body, mind and spirit, as well as between the individual self and universal consciousness. It can incorporate a series of postures and breathing exercises practised for fitness, and to achieve control of the body and mind, and a state of tranquillity. Disciplines include hatha yoga, yin yoga and kundalini yoga, all dealing with different aspects of the body, mind and spirit.
Education & Training
Study Health at Southern Cross University
Developed in collaboration with industry professionals and leading health associations, Southern Cross University’s programs are diverse and include: nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, biomedical and medical laboratory science, osteopathy, counselling, speech pathology, naturopathy, psychology, occupational therapy, sport, exercise science and exercise physiology.
Ready to turn your passion into a purpose-driven career?
Join a university that is transforming tomorrow.
Campuses in Gold Coast and Lismore 1800 724 357 • enquiry@scu.edu.au www.scu.edu.au/study/health
healing.echo.net.au/listing/study-health-at-southern-cross-university
Byron Community College – health & wellbeing courses in Mullumbimby & Byron Bay
Byron Community College offers accessible and inspiring education across the Byron Shire, providing practical skills for personal or professional growth. With a strong sense of community and commitment to lifelong learning, Byron College deliver diverse short courses and nationally accredited training. Popular health and wellbeing courses include yoga, natural therapies, nutrition, and personal development, to equip students with valuable tools. Course offerings change each term, so visit their website to explore what’s new each season.
Mullumbimby campus: 6/8 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby 02 6684 3374 • www.byroncollege.org.au
healing.echo.net.au/listing/byron-community-college
Krishna Village: Certified RYT-200 Yoga Teacher Training
Are you looking to experience authentic yogic living and to become a confident, well-rounded, fully-fledged yoga teacher?
Spend six transformative weeks immersed in a vibrant yoga community on an eco-farm. Nourish your soul and learn yoga in a holistic way: postures, philosophy, meditation and mindfulness, Kirtan, yoga anatomy, physiology and nutrition. Gain teaching experience with real students while being guided and mentored by a team of internationally experienced yoga teacher trainers.
info@krishnavillage-retreat.com www.krishnavillage-retreat.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/krishna-village
Study Naturopathic Medicine at Southern Cross University
Naturopathy courses at Southern Cross University are underpinned by a framework of critical enquiry, clinical reasoning and evidencebased practice, ensuring graduates attain the knowledge, skills and abilities to work with diverse patient groups and teams across a range of professional settings. Choose from a suite of courses that aim to enrich clinical practice, enhance professional standing, and empower future leaders in the field of naturopathic medicine.
Campuses in Gold Coast and Lismore 1800 724 357 • enquiry@scu.edu.au www.scu.edu.au/study/health/naturopathy healing.echo.net.au/listing/study-naturopathy-at-southern-cross-university
Mind Medicine Australia: Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies
Mind Medicine Australia is a charity that seeks to alleviate the suffering caused by mental illness in Australia through expanding the treatment options available to medical practitioners and their patients. They focus on the development of safe and effective psychedelic-assisted therapies to cure a range of mental illnesses. They train psychiatrists, GPs, physicians, counsellors, nurses, psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers, occupational therapists and others. Apply now for the upcoming intakes of the world-leading Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies (CPAT). 03 8679 6015 • CPAT@mindmedicineaustralia.org mindmedicineaustralia.org.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/mind-medicine-australia-psychedelic-assisted-therapies
Caahm Kinesiology Academy
Caahm Kinesiology offers practitioner training in three transformational modalities: The CAAHM Method™ Specialised Kinesiology, UNWIND Nervous System Bodywork, and EFT Practitioner Certification.
Based on the Gold Coast with online study options available, their courses blend energy work, emotional healing, and somatic awareness. Led by Corinna Hancock, Caahm supports students to heal, grow and create soul-aligned businesses in the wellness industry.
37/50 James St, Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, and online Corinna Hancock • 0404 369 898 corinna@caahmkinesiologyacademy.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/caahm-kinesiology-academy
Ambassador for the Avatar® Course –Moni Jowsey
Make the world a better place! The Avatar® Course opens a window to the inner workings of your consciousness. Start today! Excerpted from the Ten Actions booklet, ACTION 9: Deliberately do a good deed for someone without being found out. Time: 30+ minutes. Expected result: Increased sense of self-respect. ‘The world needs less super powers and more friendly tribes.’ – Harry Palmer.
Book a personal session to experience Avatar by emailing moniquej@avataroceania.com. Online and Byron Shire. Avatar® is a registered trademark of Star’s Edge Inc, all rights reserved. healing.echo.net.au/listing/the-avatar-course
Health Food & Wellness Products
Life Cykel® – The World’s Most Trusted Mushroom Extracts
Over 19,000 5-star reviews. Leading the planet on quality.
Life Cykel is a high ethos mycelium biotechnology company that engineers positive solutions to real-world problems. Based in Byron Bay, and with facilities across Australia and one in Wisconsin, USA. Producing products from spore to bottle, and with the expertise of in-house biotechnologies, they are passionate about producing the highest quality, full spectrum mushroom extracts on the planet. Byron Bay based, stockists Australia-wide. lifecykel.com • info@lifecykel.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/life-cykel
Flannerys Organic Wholefood Wellness Market, Murwillumbah
Real people with a real commitment to better health and wellbeing. Flannerys offer certified organic produce, wholefoods, chemical-free household products and skin care, local organic meats, fresh eggs, milk and bread – with gluten-free and plant-based options. They have free in-store naturopathic advice, quality supplements and herbal tonics. Flannerys members receive 20% off vitamins and supplements on the first Friday and Saturday of each month!
66 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah • 02 6678 2284 www.flannerys.com.au
healing.echo.net.au/listing/flannerys-organic-wholefood-welllness
Mullum Herbals & Bruns River Herbals
An over-the-counter naturopathic dispensary stocking an extensive range of high-quality herbal and naturopathic medicines. Their team of qualified naturopaths offer professional health care and product advice. Serving the community for 31 years, this iconic business also has a second store in Brunswick Heads, an online store shipping products Australia-wide, and offers free advice over the phone. Full naturopathic consultations are offered by experienced practitioners. They manufacture an extensive range of tinctures, creams, and oils, stock high quality essential oils and the famous Mullum Herbals Easy Cleanse. Mullum Herbals – 79 Stuart Street, 02 6684 3002 Bruns River Herbals – 2/28 Mullumbimbi Street, 02 6608 2661 www.mullumherbals.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/mullum-herbals
Nimbin Herbs
Servicing the Northern Rivers for more than 25 years.
Nimbin Herbs is dedicated to transforming health and consciousness through medicinal herbs, plants, and mushrooms. Connected with both local and global communities of gardeners, educators, ethnobotanists and regular folk, they promote an Earth-centred life, celebrating the radical yet simple wisdom of natural healing. Join Nimbin Herbs to explore and embrace a more life-affirming culture through quality herbal products and educational workshops.
60A Cullen Street, Nimbin 0466 988 829
www.nimbinherbs.com.au
healing.echo.net.au/listing/nimbin-herbs
Health Food & Wellness Products Experiences
Santos Organics has your health needs covered!
Santos Organics is a little shop with a big heart and has been pioneering the organic health and bulk food movement since 1978. Santos Organics is not just a health food store, it is a community hub and 100% not-for-profit environmental social enterprise, which means every time you shop with them, you are shopping for the good of people and planet.
51 Burringbar St, Mullumbimby – store/cafe/naturopath
105 Jonson St, Byron Bay – store/cafe/naturopath 2/7 Brigantine St, Byron A&I Estate – store/cafe/warehouse Order online: santosorganics.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/santos-organics
WholeLife Healthfoods Markets Tweed Heads
This is your one-stop-shop health food department store. Discover a wide range of organic produce, health foods, wholefoods, vitamins, superfoods, sports nutrition, natural beauty, skincare, and baby care products. Their range also includes products to support an eco-friendly, sustainable lifestyle.
Visit their natural health dispensary for personalised liquid herb solutions. Their resident herbalist is available for one-on-one consultations to support your health journey.
Shop 3/3 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads South 07 5523 0307 • wholelife.com.au • @wholelifemarketstweedheads
healing.echo.net.au/listing/wholelife-healthfoods-markets
The Returning, Bundjalung Country
The Returning is an Indigenous, women-led not-for-profit organisation based on Bundjalung Country (Northern NSW). Their mission is to bring all people back into right relationship with self, community and Country, creating healing for ourselves and for the planet. They provide opportunities for community to connect through their cultural camps, women’s gatherings, Mother Care program and healing retreats, always centring Indigenous ways of knowing through the guidance of their cultural facilitators, knowledge holders and Elders. Bundjalung Country (Northern Rivers) jinjila@thereturning.com.au • thereturning.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/the-returning-bundjalung-country
Byron Bay Healing Rooms, Mullumbimby
Byron Bay Healing Rooms was founded in 2006 as part of the International Association of Healing Rooms. They offer free prayer for healing of body, mind and soul. Over the years they have seen many incredible healings as a result of prayer. Their team are trained and of good character, and are experienced in healing the sick. They embrace everyone with loving, open arms. All are welcome to receive healing prayer and encounter the unconditional love of Christ.
132 Dalley Street, Mullumbimby
Fridays fortnightly 2–4pm (check website for dates) 0487 067 253 • office@tribebyronbay.com www.byronbayhealingrooms.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/byron-bay-healing-rooms-mullumbimby
The whole-health approach to healing
We spoke to four practitioners who shared their views on how health workers can join forces.
Photo: Thierry Biland / Unsplash
Eve Jeffery
The good health industry has at its heart a wish to make us well, and ever since there were ‘witches’ and shamans there has been more that one point of view as to how to make that happen. In the 21st century we have arrived at the main point of difference between ‘traditional medicine’ and modern ‘scientific medicine’, and never the twain shall meet – or shall they?
We spoke to four practitioners who have their own point of view of how health workers can join forces.
In an alternative community like Mullumbimby, people will often come to our dispensary as a first port of call. We will always refer clients where appropriate...
Lin Bell is a kinesiologist-trauma counsellor-somaticshamanic energy healer who offers energy healing, accessing deep emotional wounds. Lin says that sometimes when she is muscle-testing a client, it may come up that it would serve them to see a medical practitioner. ‘I may recommend X-ray or confirm that they would benefit from an MRI. Usually practitioners I may recommend would include physiotherapy, massage, osteopathy, chiropractic, or acupuncture.
Belle Eder works to educate and empower people with food and herbal medicine to feed the body the building blocks it needs to heal itself as nature intended. ‘I work specifically with gut health or the health of your microbial community and all associated conditions. What I love to see is when we treat and heal the gut and start to feed the body well so many of a patient’s symptoms, across many different systems of the body, improve at the same time. It’s gold.’
Belle says it’s always good to get some blood results to help direct treatment or a diagnosis to help the patient understand their health concerns.
‘I do recommend acupuncture, meditation, exercise, yoga, etc. In some instances that are more complex it can be helpful to get some specific tests through Western medicine.’
Val Iwaszko from Mullum Herbals is a naturopath. Mullum Herbals is a naturopathic dispensary that offers over-the-counter health advice as well as full naturopathic consultations. All of the employees are qualified naturopaths. Val says that, ‘in an alternative community like Mullumbimby, people will often come
to our dispensary as a first port of call. We will always refer clients where appropriate. This may be, for example, to the local GP, the emergency department, to a body worker or psychologist. This works in a reciprocal manner as many local general practitioners or therapists from other modalities will refer patients to us for complementary treatments.’
Val says that sometimes antibiotics or surgery or other medical treatments are unavoidable. ‘There are always naturopathic treatments to support a person’s wellbeing while they undergo these procedures, and to assist their recovery and convalescence, such as probiotics or herbs and nutritional supplements to promote healing.’
Dr Nathan Kesteven is a general practitioner who has a practice in a small rural village near Lismore. ‘We see anyone in our area, so care for all ages and across all parts of our community. We are a bulk-billing practice,’ he says.
‘Patients frequently use over-the-counter supplements and some go to naturopaths. Many seek help from osteopaths/chiropractors for muscle/joint aches and pains. I ofter refer patients to osteopaths/chiropractors for such pains.’
Dr Kesteven says that he does feel that the different schools of thought and practice can work together. ‘They can complement each other – a person with a sore back may benefit from pain relief, physiotherapy and acupuncture/chiro work.’
Val Iwaszko says that naturopaths seek the root cause of an illness and address the drivers of disease using therapies based in nature. This supports the body’s innate healing capacity and so complements any other therapeutic approaches taken. Belle Eder feels that though her work is very much practising from the school of thought that treats the cause through lifestyle and food choices, rather than by treating symptoms, she feels everyone should always work together for the benefit of the patient – that’s the core essence of practice.
Lin Bell can see a place where the two schools meet. ‘I’ve found in my own journey that it’s important to have a good medical practitioner or physician to get a more scientific perspective, and thereby balance the two.’
Healing Practitioners
Wildforest Folk – Transformative Forest and Nature Therapy
Wildforest Folk, led by ecotherapist and researcher Claudia Grati, offers transformative workshops and individual sessions in forest and nature therapies combined with deep ecology practices, tending to eco-grief, nature disconnection, and emotional healing. Sessions are held in beautiful rainforest and beachside locations across the Northern Rivers, and are focused on building deep ecological awareness through experiential, nature-based approaches in a nurturing environment. claudia@wildforestfolk.earth • @wildforest.folk www.wildforestfolk.earth healing.echo.net.au/listing/wildforest-folk
Deep Listening Counselling for Couples and Individuals
The stigma associated with going to counselling is slowly dissolving and nowadays many people recognise the value of seeing a counsellor to receive support for all types of issues. Life, family and relationships are complex. Counselling sessions can offer a unique space where you can reflect and gain insight on personal issues and relational dynamics that might be causing friction in your life. Barbra Joffe is an experienced ACA registered counsellor who works with both couples and individuals, online or in-person in a light and modern office in Bangalow. 18-20 Byron St, Bangalow • 0489 186 443 • barbrajoffe@gmail.com www.samadeeplistening.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/deep-listening-counselling
Melissa Zimmerman, Registered Health Professional, IV Vitamin Therapy Specialist
The Wellness Co Byron Bay offers premium IV Vitamin and NAD+ Therapy designed to boost energy, immunity, recovery and overall wellness. Founded by registered paramedic and former Australian and World Fitness Champion, Melissa Zimmerman, their treatments cater to health-conscious humans seeking natural, science-backed therapies. They are a mobile service, but they also provide a calm, client-focused space to recharge, rehydrate and feel your best – inside and out.
Mobile service from Byron Bay to Ballina and surrounds 0416 868 111 • melissa@thewellnesscobyronbay.com melissazimmerman.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/melissa-zimmerman
Jacinta McEwen ND – Om Healing, Naturopathic and Ayurvedic
From her healing centre, Om Healing, close to Mullumbimby, Jacinta offers a variety of workshops, naturopathic and Ayurvedic consultations, balances, pranic healing, Ayurvedic treatments, and massage therapy. In her consultations Jacinta uses pulse reading, iridology, and kinesiology for diagnosis and a treatment plan. Jacinta also presents lectures and workshops on a range of healthrelated topics including women’s health, Ayurveda, Ayurvedic massage, bush medicines, natural first aid, and mother and baby health care. Goonengerry, in person and online 0422 387 370 • www.omhealing.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/jacinta-mcewen-nd-omhealing
My Gut Store – Belle Eder, Gut Specialist, Herbalist
Belle has a passion for health. She has taken her expertise as a qualified herbalist and gut specialist (GAPS™ practitioner), and combined it with her love of good food to create a truly unique practice. She helps patients take charge of their health using good food, herbs and supplements. Belle works with digestive disorders, inflammatory conditions, auto-immunity, mental health issues and much more.
0405 337 433 • belle@mygutstore.com www.mygutstore.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/my-gut-store
The Secret Byron Bay – Regenerative Aesthetic Skin Clinic
The Secret Byron Bay offers a beautiful ‘Regenerative Aesthetic Skin Clinic’ in Habitat, devoted to the progressive practice of regenerative skin health. This is a Nurse-led clinic utilising a minimalist and ethical approach to traditional skin treatments, as well as combining the latest regenerative medicine. This approach to skin restoration and health is the future of aesthetics.
Suite 24, 5 Easy Street, Habitat, Byron Bay
Please book online for an initial consultation or text: 0458 628 555 hello@thesecretbyronbay.com • thesecretbyronbay.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/the-secret-byron-bay
Kinesiology North Coast – Sandra Davey
Sandra Davey has extensive experience, holds multiple kinesiology qualifications and has helped many people clear issues and experience better living. After working in allopathic medicine as a registered nurse and medical scientist, she became passionate about kinesiology because its main aim is to get to the origin of a problem to clear it. Some areas addressed are: clearing subconscious sabotages, learning and behavioural difficulties, reprogramming old patterns and beliefs, de-stressing, and restoring energy and physical health. Sandra works with adults and children.
Suite 8, 41 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby • 0403 125 506 sandradaveyessence@gmail.com • kinesiologynorthcoast.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/kinesiology-north-coast-sandra-davey
Alaia Harvie, Traditional Japanese Acupuncture – Refocus Wellness
Alaia offers clinical support for a wide range of conditions, using traditional and modern Japanese acupuncture techniques. Conditions treated include: musculo-skeletal pain, recovery from injury or surgery, neurological disorders, headaches, migraines, movement disorders, digestive issues, hormonal issues, men’s and women’s health, sexual issues, fertility, pregnancy and post-partum care. With over 20 years’ experience, specialised trainings and two masters degrees, Alaia brings a wealth of insight to each session, tailoring her clinical approach to each patient’s needs.
Unit 36, 5 Easy St, Habitat Retail & Lifestyle Precinct, Byron Bay 0438 841 224 • info@refocuswellness.com • refocuswellness.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/alaia-harvie-refocus-wellness
Healing Practitioners
Kate Messenger Kinesiology & Crystal Healing
Kate Messenger offers kinesiology and crystal healing sessions, tending to all aspects of your health and wellbeing with compassion, intuition and loving presence. Using gentle biofeedback muscle testing, Kate taps into the database of your body – identifying the root cause of your issue, and utilising a wide range of therapeutic techniques to strengthen your innate healing capacity and restore balance and flow within your being. Kate works with physical and emotional issues, trauma, stress release, pain relief, postural imbalances, fears and phobias, sabotage programs, compulsive behaviours, nutritional support, learning issues and more! Mullumbimby/online • 0413 003 301 • @katemessenger_kinesiology www.katemessengerkinesiology.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/kate-messenger-kinesiology-crystal-healing
Sunita R Gerstner, Results Coach & Metaphysical Healer
Sunita facilitates life changing transformation on a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual level. Heal limiting beliefs, selfdoubt, self-sabotage and trapped emotions (created by past events) at their core – once and for all. When your life force is free, you will know who you really are and live your limitless potential. You can live your life with self-confidence, clarity and fulfilment. Sunita provides you with the right self-help tools too, so you are free to live. 0499 075 607 • sunita@divinenergy.net www.divinenergy.net • www.sunita-result-coaching.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/sunita-r-gerstner-results-coach
Vicki Veranese oRAcle
Using the deck and runes she created, Vicki gives unique insight and clarity as well the option of an experience in consciousness connecting you with your intuition, desires, and authenticity.
Byron hinterland and online CasaVeras, 60A Kingsvale Road, Myocum Text: 0412 400 085 linker.ee/vickiveranese connecting@i-of-ra.com www.i-of-ra.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/vicki-veranese-oracle
Blue Mind Health – Hypnosis & Neurofeedback
Hypnosis and Neurofeedback in your own home or at sea.
• Clinical hypnotherapy • Psychotherapy
• Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) • Neurofeedback
Blue Mind Health can help you with: sleep, smoking, tinnitus, addictions, anxiety, weight loss, sports performance, PTSD and more. Can you imagine living your life with greater ease from today? Activate that journey now.
Northern NSW and Gold Coast regions and online 07 5608 9844 • 0407 871 341 • bluemindhealth@gmail.com www.bluemindhealth.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/blue-mind-health-hypnosis-neurofeedback
Lin Bell, Kinesiologist, Trauma Counsellor, Somatic Healer, Kinesiology Training
Lin Bell is one of Byron Bay’s most experienced kinesiologists. She specialises in trauma counselling, somatic, spiritual and shamanic healing, and past lives. With over 40 years practising in a wealth of healing modalities, Lin is also a creator of Self Guidance cards. She specialises in working somatically with underlying emotional psychologies. Lin supports you to recognise emotional patterns and abandoned aspects that are causing distress. You are guided into acceptance, understanding comes, and balance is restored. 0404 066 707 • linbell0@gmail.com byronbaykinesiology-healings-readings.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/lin-bell-kinesiologist
Caroline McKenna, Transformational Mind Body Therapist
I help client access their own innate healing ability addressing physical, mental, emotional or spiritual challenges. I firmly believe that the power that made the body can heal the body. I use the following practices to restore wellbeing: NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), The Journey, RESET (Soul Line therapy), breathwork, reiki, reconnective healing, mediumship, meditation, hypnosis intuitive massage, relaxation massage, remedial massage, pregnancy massage, Womb Hara Massage, reflexology, lymphatic drainage massage, hot stone massage, TMJ reset, Anima healing. 0402 693 494 • cal@chillpilltherapies.com • chillpilltherapies.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/caroline-mckenna
Natwah Petruszka, Holographic Kinetics
Holographic Kinetics is an advanced healing modality based in Aboriginal Lore. Uncle Steve Richards teaches that most people are stuck in moments of time with the patterns, thoughts and cycles of similarity repeating over and over. Dreamtime Healing using Holographic Kinetics assists you to integrate with your Spirit to find the cause of those repeating cycles and make changes so you are no longer stuck. ‘You are the key to your own healing – your Spirit is your freedom’ – Steve Richards.
Natwah has been practising Holographic Kinetics in the Byron area for six years. Call for a yarn about Holographic Kinetics or to book a session. 0434 223 756 • beautifulspiritsong@gmail.com www.holographickinetics.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/natwah-petruszka-holographic-kinetics
Empathy Catalyst – Communication Coaching with Melinda
One-on-one coaching to support empowered communication, emotional wellbeing and personal growth. Sessions offer a space to feel heard, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence. The focus is on creating ease in relationships and alignment with your values – combining empathic presence, deep listening, and practical tools to help shift unhelpful patterns, strengthen your relationship with yourself, find the right words, set boundaries, and create meaningful change in everyday life.
0490 050 085 • melinda@empathycatalyst.com www.empathycatalyst.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/empathy-catalyst
Medicinal cannabis – what’s new and what’s working?
David Lowe
It’s nine years since medicinal cannabis became legal in NSW, and the industry has grown steadily since then, although local producers say the playing field remains uneven, with international competitors not being bound by the same strict regulatory environment.
Medicinal cannabis is increasingly recognised as a therapy for dealing with conditions including chronic pain, epilepsy, PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) and MS (multiple sclerosis), with the latest research exploring its potential in oncology, neuro-degeneration and paediatric care.
While the two principal cannabinoids in cannabis sativa (THC and CBD) have been known for many years, others continue to be discovered, with organic, soil-based growers suggesting that chemically-assisted hydro cultivation approaches are failing to appreciate or nurture the full health potential of this remarkable plant.
Beyond pain
Cannabis-based painkillers are showing promise as alternatives to opioids (particularly for lower back ache), offering improved sleep and pain relief without the same risk of addiction.
In terms of cancer, major studies are yet to empirically confirm anecdotal evidence of successful treatment
of tumours, although work at the University of Newcastle and elsewhere has shown that specially modified forms of medicinal cannabis (high CBD/low THC varieties) can kill or inhibit cancer cells without impacting normal cells.
The situation regarding cancer symptom management is more clearcut, with recent work from the Whole Health Oncology Institute in Colorado analysing 10,000 studies and finding that 75 per cent supported the use of medicinal cannabis in improving patient outcomes, including a reduction of nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss associated with chemotherapy.
On the neurological side, research from the University of Bonn, and elsewhere, suggests that low doses of THC can improve cognitive function in older individuals, by affecting
proteins associated with energy regulation and brain activity.
There’s also growing evidence that medicinal cannabis can help manage dementia symptoms, by alleviating sleep issues, anxiety, and agitation.
PTSD
For those suffering posttraumatic stress disorder, a comprehensive 2024 review indicated that combining cannabis with psychotherapy provides faster and more sustained relief from symptoms than standard psychotherapy on its own, and a study published last year in Archives of Suicide Research revealed that medicinal cannabis can significantly reduce suicidal ideation among patients.
In Victoria, trials are currently underway to assess the efficacy of medicinal cannabis in treating anxiety and ADHD in children aged 5 to 12.
For people suffering from muscle spasticity (for example from multiple sclerosis), a cannabis-derived oral spray product called Nabiximols has been approved in Australia and a number of other countries, with the TGA finding an established therapeutic value in cases where other products failed to have any effect.
Another cannabidiol, trademarked Epidyolex, has been approved in Australia for the treatment of rare and severe forms of epilepsy, such as
CBD oil hemp extract. Photo Ronn Cid / Unsplash
Dravey syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This medication has been found to significantly reduce seizure frequency when used alongside other treatments.
Here on the Northern Rivers, Gerald Taylor from The Hemp Club has been experimenting by combining extracts from the whole hemp plant with native Australian bush essences to access the endocannabinoid system via the skin. His current focus is on developing protocols and products for dealing with specific ailments, including chronic back and knee pain, sleep and anxiety issues, fibromyalgia and endometriosis.
Not for everyone
While there are clear therapeutic benefits from medicinal cannabis in many cases – particularly where traditional treatments have proven inadequate – there’s still a clear need for personalised risk assessment and ongoing clinical evaluation.
Enthusiasts like to remind critics that no one has died from an overdose of cannabis, but the situation on the ground is more complex – the risks are not negligible. Those whose brains are still developing, people with compromised liver health, and anyone with a genetic risk of psychosis needs to be wary, especially of products with a high or unknown THC component.
Medicinal cannabis products sometimes interact unpredictably with other medications, and it can be difficult to assess dose potency outside a therapeutic environment, or when using an imported product which hasn’t been subject to Australian regulation.
Other ongoing issues with medicinal cannabis include the disconnection between health promotion and law enforcement (with or without evidence of impairment, in the case of driving), tensions between small home growers and massive industrial producers, and inconsistencies in the law between (and within) different Australian jurisdictions.
Having said all that, as more territories legalise the product, and the quality and quantity of expert research into the many varieties of this healing herb continues to grow, the future of medicinal cannabis is looking brighter than it has for decades.
Photo: Nicole Plunkett / Unsplash
Healing & Wellness Centres
Bluefern Osteopathy and Holistic Health – Lismore and Byron Shire
Caring for your health and the health of your family! Bluefern is an osteopathy and allied health clinic providing care for individuals of all ages, including adults, seniors, infants, and children. With a focus on Osteopathy in the Cranial Field, also referred to as craniosacral or cranial osteopathy, they also offer expertise in visceral and paediatric osteopathy. See their website for more information and to make an appointment. 0425 178 800 • info@bluefernosteopathy.com.au www.bluefernosteopathy.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/bluefern-osteopathy-and-holistic-health
The Health Cove
A renowned allied health and wellness clinic with two locations. The team of dedicated practitioners offer a comprehensive range of services including: psychology, acupuncture, osteopathy, massage and infrared saunas. The Health Cove takes a patient-centred approach, delivering gold-standard, evidence-based care to all who seek their care and expertise. Clients experience a commitment to genuine, compassionate support. Now celebrating its 20th year, The Health Cove continues to be a trusted destination for health and wellness.
1/3 Fawcett Street, Brunswick Heads 2/29 Tweed Coast Road, Cabarita Beach 02 6680 5602 • hello@thehealthcove.com • www.thehealthcove.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/the-health-cove
The Rainbow Health Centre, Lismore – Naturopathic Health Clinic
A naturopathic health clinic offering comprehensive naturopathic consultations utilising homeopathy, herbal medicine, nutritional supplements, Bach flower remedies as well as nutritional and lifestyle advice. Electrodermal screening is a feature of all consultations and microbiome testing, SIBO testing and other functional assessments are utilised as required. Lee Vassella, Anna Lusty and Claire Patterson, who all hold a Bachelor of Naturopathy from SCU, are on hand to support you on your health journey. 02 6621 5121 • 0484 076 120 • info@rainbowhealthcentre.com www.rainbowhealthcentre.com www.healing.echo.net.au/listing/the-rainbow-health-centre
Massage
Byron Massage Clinic
Experience whole-body wellness at this integrative clinic, where skilled therapists offer a range of treatments including remedial massage, acupuncture, sports and deep tissue massage, lymphatic drainage, Swedish massage, aromatherapy, cupping, dry needling, reiki, and reflexology.
Byron Massage Clinic’s team of experienced, client-focused practitioners take a holistic approach to your health. Health fund rebates available with HICAPS.
6/4 Bay Lane, Byron Bay 02 6685 6107 www.byronmassageclinic.com.au www.healing.echo.net.au/listing/byron-massage-clinic
Artemis – Unique & Unusual Bodywork & Massage Infused with Essential Oils
Experience ancient healing traditions combined with massage and essential oils, as a unique and powerful way to reconnect, indulge, pamper and ignite your senses. Offerings include: aroma stone massage, hot stone massage, Ayurvedic massage, Bowen technique, Raindrop Technique Massage, sound healing, psychic/tarot readings and spiritual guidance, ancient Egyptian rituals (Egyptian Emotional Clearing Technique, AromaBliss, ParaSET Technique), ancient Tibetan reflexology, and essential oil classes. Ewingsdale, Byron Bay • 0432 788 843 (text preferred) aromatica.au • rawdivinity.net • theoiltemple.com.au/blog healing.echo.net.au/listing/artemis
Thai Sabai Traditional Massage
Byron Bay’s Jonson Street has been the home of Thai Sabai Massage for the past 15 years. Here ancient Eastern techniques are practised daily. Take time out to de-stress, relax, rejuvenate and re-align your life force, maintaining your health and vitality through massage and therapeutic manipulation. A quality experience!
Byron’s best massage. Open 7 days 9.30am – 7pm.
71 Jonson Street, Byron Bay relax@thaisabai.com.au • 02 6680 7373 • 0401 340 567 www.thaisabai.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/thai-sabai
Bodywell Massage
Lucy offers expert remedial and relaxation massage therapy with over 25 years of healing experience. Unwind, recover, and rejuvenate with trusted expertise in relaxation, orthopaedic and advanced massage techniques. Personalised treatments in a beautiful, calm clinic include: Remedial, sports, pregnancy, luxury, relaxation, dry needling and cupping, reflexology, hot stone therapy, Lomi Lomi, and lymphatic drainage massages.
Mobile massage service, Hicaps and gift vouchers available. Sunday to Friday, closed Saturday.
10-12 Shirley St, Byron Bay • 0427 186 167 lucy@bodywellmassage.com • www.bodywellmassage.com healing.echo.net.au/listing/bodywell-massage
Retreats, Spas & Venues
Byron Bay Detox Retreats
Byron Bay Detox Retreats is a leader in wellness and a beachfront sanctuary to purify, reconnect and rejuvenate. Experience a lifechanging transformation on one of their exclusive group retreats, rejuvenate during a personalised one-on-one retreat, escape for a weekend reset, or book into the beachside clinic for a range of wellness treatments such as colonic hydrotherapy, infrared sauna, naturopathic consultations and massage.
Suffolk Park, Byron Bay 0458 633 869 • info@byronbaydetoxretreats.com.au www.byronbaydetoxgreens.com.au www.byronbaydetoxretreats.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/byron-bay-detox-retreats
Gaia Retreat & Spa
Surrender to the beauty and healing power of Australia’s most awarded boutique wellness retreat, situated on 25 acres in the Bundjalung Country hinterland of Byron Bay. Majestically nestled in the healing heartland of Australia, Gaia, meaning Spirit of Mother Earth, will seduce you to drift into a deep state of solitude with its endless vistas and unsurpassed sustainable design. Drawing on holistic wellness, Gaia Retreat & Spa has curated deeply grounding and restorative experiences that continue to inspire guests. Check out Gaia’s online listing for an exclusive 15% discount for the Byron Bay community at the Gaia Day Spa. gaiaretreat.com.au • 02 6687 1670 healing.echo.net.au/listing/gaia-retreat
Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Byron
Tucked within 45 acres of subtropical rainforest at Crystalbrook Byron, Eléme Day Spa is a tranquil escape designed for personalised wellness. Treatments flex to your mood, whether you’re after a deeptissue massage, a nature-inspired facial or a moment of stillness in the infrared sauna. Using high-performance, natural products by Sodashi, Eléme blends modern comfort with holistic care. It is a restorative experience grounded in the rhythms of Byron Bay.
77-97 Broken Head Road, Suffolk Park, Byron Bay eleme.byron@crystalbrookcollection.com www.crystalbrookcollection.com/eleme-spa/byron healing.echo.net.au/listing/eleme-day-spa-at-crystalbrook-byron
KV Wellness – at Krishna Village Yoga Retreat
Nestled in the lush hinterland of the Tweed Valley in the foothills of sacred Wollumbin, KV Wellness offers a deeply nourishing escape. Experience personalised wellness sessions including Ayurvedic consultations and treatments, Vedic astrology, massage, energy healing and holistic counselling, paired with modern therapies like whole-bed LED light therapy and pressotherapy. Whether you are seeking clarity, balance or rejuvenation, your journey begins here. Byron and Tweed Shire locals enjoy a complimentary meal or yoga class with any booking.
Krishna Village, 525 Tyalgum Road • 0457 429 900 wellness@krishnavillage.au • kvwellness.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/kv-wellness-at-krishna-village
Retreats, Spas & Venues
Elements of Byron Rebalance Retreat
Tucked between rainforest and sea, Elements of Byron is the ultimate setting to reset at your own pace. Their 5-night Rebalance Retreat pairs luxury villa accommodation with nourishing breakfasts, a $250 Osprey Spa credit, sunrise yoga, nature walks, and self-care gifts from Vanessa Megan Skincare. Grounded in nature and curated by wellness experts, this self-guided journey offers the space, privacy and serenity to realign mind, body and soul.
Elements of Byron, 144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay 02 6639 1500 • reservations@elementsofbyron.com.au www.elementsofbyron.com.au/offers/wellness-package healing.echo.net.au/listing/elements-of-byron-rebalance-retreat
Sweet Retreats at Sugar Beach Ranch
Play | Laugh | Nourish
Sweet Retreats are remarkable three-day retreats where you can ground yourself without compromising on luxury. Take part in equine wellness, yoga, meditation, gourmet dinners on the beach, painting, fire ceremonies and sound bowl healing – all in the presence of beautiful horses. Relax and unwind each day around the magnesium pool, in nature’s playground.
259 Keith Hall Lane, South Ballina info@sugarbeachranch.com www.sugarbeachranch.com
healing.echo.net.au/listing/sugar-beach-ranch
Osprey Spa at Elements of Byron
Osprey Spa at Elements of Byron offers a holistic wellness experience with a newly revitalised treatment menu. Enjoy signature treatments like Fire & Frost and Sublime Bliss, personalised by expert therapists. Set in a serene indoor–outdoor space, the spa combines luxurious natural skincare with the calming beauty of Byron Bay, creating a restorative escape for all visitors (including locals).
Locals receive 10% off treatments Monday to Thursday. Talk to the Osprey Spa team today.
Elements of Byron, 144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay 02 6639 1500 • spa@elementsofbyron.com.au www.elementsofbyron.com.au/spa healing.echo.net.au/listing/osprey-spa-at-elements-of-byron
Understanding neurodiversity
Aslan Shand
Neurodiveristy – it is an idea that has been thrown around for a while now, it has entered the common parlance and turned up at our dinner tables and in our conversations, more and more over time. Sometimes it feels like the new catchword on everybody’s lips, but what is it, who does it represent, and how is it changing the world around us?
The term ‘neurodiversity’ was coined by Australian sociologist Judy Singer in her 1998 University of Technology Sydney (UTS) thesis where she identified herself as ‘being the middle of three generations of women on the autistic spectrum’.
Singer is clear that neurodiversity is just a fact of human existence and, ‘refers specifically to the limitless variability of human cognition and the uniqueness of each human mind’.
That is, we are all neurologically different, however, as The Neurodiversity Hub explains, ‘some individuals have neurological variations that make it particularly challenging for their communication, self-expression, and interactions with others’. Therefore, ‘neurodivergence is a broad umbrella and is not just autism. Neurological variations can include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, tics’ and more, depending on whose definition you are using.
Associate Professor in Speech and Language Pathology at Charles Sturt University, Dr Sarah Verdon, says she wants you, ‘to open your mind to the possibility of embracing the diversity of all of our brains and to question everything you’ve ever heard about neurodiversity,’ in her 2024 TEDx talk ‘Challenging our disordered thinking about neurodiversity’.
‘Remove just one thing from neurodiverse conditions such as autism
”
Like biodiversity is essential for a healthy planet, neurodiversity is necessary for a sustainable, flourishing human society
spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – it would just be that last word “disorder” – because neurodiverse brains are not disordered, they are simply wired differently,’ she explains.
Dr Verdon says her, ‘brain’s more on the ADHD side’ and highlights the wide range of neurodiverse traits that people can exhibit on the model to conceptualise the neurodiverse brain she has developed.
‘Each of these features exists on the spectrum. So for example, one common feature of neurodiversity is having sensory needs. Some people are sensory seeking, meaning they’re always looking for inputs in their body to regulate their nervous system. They might move around a lot. They might like really tight hugs, and they might like looking at bright lights.
‘Other people are sensory avoidant, so they’re on the other end of the spectrum. They might be putting their hands over their ears when they hear a loud noise. They might walk on their tippy toes because they don’t like the feeling of input on their feet. They can be quite particular about the types of clothes that they wear, and they can be really fussy when it comes to eating certain textures or flavours.
‘Another commonly misunderstood feature of neurodiversity is empathy. Many people falsely believe that neurodiverse people do not experience empathy, but like every other feature of neurodiversity, empathy exists on the spectrum. And so, while some people do have difficulties with empathy, others have what we call hyperempathy, and they can feel everything about another person’s feelings or a social situation with such great intensity that it can almost be painful.’
Rather than seeing this diversity of the brain as a flaw or deficit, as it often was historically, Singer, Dr Verdon and others highlight the importance of the diversity of the brain as part of the wide array of human experiences. As Singer puts it, like biodiversity is essential for a healthy planet, ‘neurodiversity is necessary for a sustainable, flourishing human society’.
‘Some scientists go as far as to say that neurodiverse traits may have been preserved through the human evolutionary process because they are so advantageous to our species,’ said Dr Verdon.
‘Another feature of neurodiversity is verbal expression. Some people are non-speaking, whereas others are hyper-verbal, and they’ll talk from sunup till sundown, particularly about their topics of interest, and others are just somewhere in between.
‘That makes sense when you think about all of the wonderful things that have come about as a part of human civilisation from neurodiverse people. For example, without neurodiversity, we would have never been to the moon, because many of the fine folks at NASA are neurodiverse. We wouldn’t have the theory of evolution (Charles Darwin), the theory of relativity (Albert Einstien) or even electricity (Benjamin Franklin), because it’s widely believed that the people who invented all of these things were autistic. We need diverse brains to come up with novel solutions to complex problems, and we need their pattern recognition and problem-solving skills to come up with inventions that can make the world a better place,’ she explained.
– not a label, it is a way of life
However, that doesn’t always mean that being someone with autism, ADHD, dyslexia or another diagnosis that identifies them as being neurodiverse is easy, and if you have one neurodivergence you are more likely to have another neurodivergence as a co-occurring condition or conditions.
According to the Australian Disability Network, ‘a 2020 study estimates that one in five to seven (or 15-20 per cent) of the global population is neurodivergent, and a 2022 study estimates that 11 per cent of Australian employees are neurodivergent’.
‘Many neurodivergent individuals, like everyone else, have strengths and weaknesses,’ said Nathaniel W Hawley, a global neurodiversity strategist and consultant – who by the age of three had been diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia and autism – in his 2024 TEDx talk. ‘Understanding each person’s unique spiky profile is key to helping them reach their full potential. If spiky profile refers to a person having both strengths and weaknesses in different areas, for instance, someone may find reading difficult, this would be their
Neurodivergent individuals aren’t problems to solve, we’re unique, valuable people who deserve to be understood, celebrated, and encouraged to reach our own greatness
I’ve learned is that neurodivergent individuals aren’t problems to solve,’ Hawley said.
‘We’re unique, valuable people who deserve to be understood, celebrated, and encouraged to reach our own greatness. Neurodiversity is a fundamental part of human diversity, that when embraced drives innovation and inclusivity. Studies show that companies with neurodiverse, inclusive cultures are nearly two times as likely to be innovation leaders in their field. Need more proof?’
There is still significant work to do in changing the cultural and structural
Projects are steps that are being taken to develop understanding of neurodiversity and neuro-affirming teaching and learning practices.
‘To create truly inclusive schools for neurodiverse students, including autistic students, we need to shift from a deficit-based model to strengths-based approaches, focusing on what students can do, not just what they struggle with,’ explains Dr Jia White of Curtin University. ‘Real inclusion takes time, teamwork, and support.’
Dr Laura Roche, senior lecturer at the University of Newcastle agrees saying, ‘We are not here to change or to “fix” children, because they are not broken. In tertiary education, specialist peer mentoring programs and sensoryfriendly initiatives are key to helping autistic students navigate university life, from managing assignments to finding safe spaces on campus.’
As Dr Verdon states, ‘If we can create a society where everybody fits in, then we’re going to have a society that is for all neurodiverse people… what we really need to do is to create space for neurodiverse people to just be themselves and to do things in their own way, because there is such beauty in difference. I dream of a world where everybody is given a chance to embrace the diversity of their brain and to flourish.’
Photo: Hiki App / Unsplash
Exercise & Movement
Shirsha Marie – Tai Chi, Qigong & Body Psychotherapy
Cultivate vital life energy, mindful awareness and natural self-expression with the embodied wisdom practices of Tai Chi – moving meditation art, Qigong – healing exercise art, and Body Psychotherapy – somatic approach to physical and emotional wellbeing.
Shirsha Marie offers classes, individual sessions and residential retreats in the Byron Shire, as well as Qigong instructional videos. shirsha@heartmindcentre.com.au www.heartmindcentre.com.au
healing.echo.net.au/listing/shirsha-marie-tai-chi-qigong
Bodyworkz Fitness & Wellness Centre
Bodyworkz is here to help you excel with your individual fitness goals in one great location. They provide you with the best environment, state-of-the-art equipment, and a wide variety of workout options in their gym, as well as a range of recovery options in their purposebuilt recovery and wellness studio. Bodyworkz offers 30+ weekly group classes of 10+ types, across four studios, under the guidance of their friendly, expert team. They have Pilates and Reformer Pilates, yoga, an infrared sauna, and hydroxy sessions to support your optimal health and wellbeing.
46–48 Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay • 0466 433 161 www.byronbodyworkz.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/bodyworkz
Dr Sam Gartland – Life Medical Mullumbimby
Dr Sam Gartland is a UK-trained GP, whose practice of medicine has been profoundly influenced by his own recovery from multiple sclerosis (MS). His area of interest is Lifestyle Medicine, an evidencebased approach for the prevention and reversal of chronic and lifestyle related conditions. Dr Sam’s approach is to address the root cause and empower patients to be active partners in their own healthcare.
Life Medical, 113 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby 02 6680 2486 www.lifemedicalmullumbimby.com.au
healing.echo.net.au/listing/dr-sam-gartland-life-medical-mullumbimby
Rightfoot Podiatry & Footwear Clinics
Whether they be little feet or big feet, their team of experienced podiatrists can offer you the treatment you need. With multiple locations across the Northern Rivers, they offer a range of podiatry services, from recommending and prescribing orthotics, treating ingrown toenails, assessing musculoskeletal problems and performing surgery. They also offer a wide range of products and footwear targeted at a variety of foot, ankle and lower limb problems. Rightfoot accept all home care packages and referrals from GPs as well as DVA, NDIS and workers compensation patients.
Byron Bay clinic: 1 Bryce Street, Suffolk Park (Cnr Clifford & Bryce) 1300 880 942 • www.rightfoot.com.au
healing.echo.net.au/listing/rightfoot-podiatry-footwear-clinics
Northern Rivers Podiatry, Byron Bay
Northern Rivers Podiatry, founded by Nathan Montgomery in 2018, is committed to delivering world-class, up-to-date foot healthcare to Byron Bay and surrounding areas.
Our dedicated team provides patient-focused care in a warm, community-centred clinic. As locals ourselves, we’re passionate about supporting the health and well-being of our community and growing alongside the families we serve.
Level 2 10/6 Marvell Street, Byron Bay 02 6619 2939 • admin@northernriverspodiatry.com.au Book online – www.northernriverspodiatry.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/northern-rivers-podiatry-byron-bay
Mediflora Organic Health – alternative healthcare clinic
Born in Byron Bay, Mediflora is a telehealth clinic with a focus on organic alternative healthcare solutions, rather than traditional pharmaceuticals. Our AHPRA registered doctors support patients with a range of issues including pain, sleep, mood, stress and more. No referral required. Personalised treatment plans are available for your condition. Book a free call with our nurse today to explore if organic medicines are right for you. Telehealth appointments available daily with overnight delivery of medications throughout the Northern Rivers. 0489 266 018 • patientsupport@medifloraorganic.com.au www.medifloraorganic.com.au healing.echo.net.au/listing/mediflora-organic-health
Doing menopause
Mandy Nolan
Half of the population experiences menopause. Yet there’s no workplace flexibility. Treatments are often not affordable and in some cases they’re not even accessible. Most GPs don’t do much more than an hour or more on menopause and its varied symptoms in their training. Menopause was something that we didn’t talk about. Most women suffered in silence. At best, women transitioned into a new hormonal phase without any understanding of why they were hot, tired, and angry. At worst, some women disappeared. They were misdiagnosed and institutionalised. Some women didn’t make it.
Find health professionals who specialise in women’s health and spend time working out what best supports you.
So what is menopause? It’s actually the day exactly 12 months after your period stops. Peri-menopause is the time your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years. Peri-menopause can start as early as in your thirties, but for most it’s in your forties. Symptoms are often a precursor to menopause and over time they can intensify and change. It can be anything from hot flushes, sleep problems, mood swings, loss of sexual desire, decrease in bone density, night sweats, brain fog, itchy, dry skin, exhaustion, headaches to weight gain. And everyone’s unwelcome bestie: anxiety. It can be all of these. Or just a few.
Oh did we mention vaginal atrophy? That’s a thing too. It’s the thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls that occurs when you have less oestrogen. It makes sex painful. And it can make walking excruciating.
Everyone’s menopause is different. Women, and people with ovaries experience this hormone transition very differently. Not everyone will require medical intervention. I tried using the hormone patches, and it made me feel dizzy and weird. I found the most effective management was giving up alcohol (sorry), eating lots of fruit, vegetables, and protein, and going to the gym to do weight-bearing exercise for bone and muscle strength. My sleeping improved, and a lot of my symptoms disappeared. But this is a sample group of one. Me.
Many of my friends have had much more debilitating and persistent symptoms. And for them accessing MHT (menopause hormone therapy) has been a life (and relationship) saver. Facing insomnia and mental fatigue
is often compounded by being a primary carer to both teenagers and elderly parents. Being left to languish without support and treatment has seen some women have to leave successful jobs. It sets them on a pathway to less super, and if their relationship breaks down, post-divorce they are often more vulnerable to poverty and homelessness.
MHT is a combined oestrogen and progesterone treatment suitable for women who still have a uterus. Women who have had their uterus and ovaries removed will just use ERT (oestrogen replacement therapy). If you still have a uterus oestrogen alone can put you at risk of developing cancer in the uterus.
Low sexual desire is common in menopausal women and can be treated with testosterone supplementation. Our natural testosterone usually peaks in our 20s and declines with age. So a bit of a testosterone boost as part of the MHT can help by making you horny and increase your overall energy. This is a personal choice. Some women enjoy feeling liberated from their sexual desires. Once again, it’s a very personal journey. Women are relying on menopause treatments that can cost $50 per month because many hormonal therapies aren’t subsidised in Australia. And progesterone, used to reduce endometrial cancer and reduce menopause symptoms, well for some reason it isn’t on the PBS. So it’s expensive. There’s a lot to know. And my advice? Find health professionals, maybe a GP and a naturopath, who specialise in women’s health and spend time working out what best supports you. That tiredness, that depression, and anxiety, the bloated feeling, the lack of sex drive – it’s probably menopause and you can manage it.
And just as a heads-up, I am 57. My menopause hit at around 51. I felt my worst at around 52 and 53. Usually the most intense symptoms are a year after the last period. For the last three years I have felt fitter, happier, more grounded than ever. I actually feel great. Menopause, once you understand how it is for you, can be the most liberating wonderful experience.
And talking about it, listening to how it is for other women and people with uteruses, and being able to make a choice about what treatment might suit you best, is optimal!
your way
Photo: Shutterstock
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The NSW Far North Coast and Northern Rivers region is well known for its alternative lifestyles, and the different methods of finding inner harmony and health practiced here. This colourful community is blessed with an abundance of healing practitioners of all kinds, as well as medical professionals grounded in modern Western medicine. Whether you are looking for natural remedies, a yoga class, healing of a spiritual nature, for allied health treatments, or anything in between, we hope that Byron Healing helps inform you of the different modalities and experiences available for you on your health and healing journey.
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