As a child I loved to massage friends and family and remember their comments, "you always know how to find the right spots!" I completed my first massage training at age 13 and I was dismayed to find the body being treated as an object, thumped and pummelled with no real sensitivity or sense of treating the whole person. I knew there had to be kinder and more effective ways to support the body to deeply relax and repair.
At 18, while caring for a family member, I discovered Shiatsu Therapy, a traditional Japanese method that holistically balances and nourishes the entire being, physically and emotionally. From there I went on to study at The Australian Shiatsu College and qualified as a shiatsu therapist in 2004. I have been an active practitioner ever since, in private practice, community drug and alcohol rehabilitation, corporate settings, and at the Gawler Living and Learning Cancer retreat centre.
In 2011 I began training under Dr Paul Movsessian, a world-renowned Japanese master of acupuncture. Under his tutelage I began to understand the amazing possibilities of traditional East Asian medicine and to learn deeper strategies to heal pain and injury, improve circulation and mobility, and stimulate the body to self repair - restoring the whole body to feel truly well and resilient.
In 2019 I commenced a degree in Health and medical Science, majoring in anatomy and physiology, and achieving high distinction. This training offers further wonderful tools to assess and treat your specific injuries from a bio-medical perspective.
I am truly grateful to be in this model of care.
Now, having been in practice 20+ years, I trust the body's magnificent ability to heal with the right supportive conditions. I ask my clients to trust too – your body knows the way. And no, it doesn't take too long :)
Rowena's qualifications - Degree Health & Medical Science - Major in Anatomy & Physiology with High Distinction - Diploma Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies - Post graduate certificates in Japanese Acupuncture, Professor Manaka's Protocols, Shonishin children's therapy, Moxibustion and Sotai postural alignment - Yoga & Meditation Teacher Training