Ali Sullivan
Director, Massage Therapist

Diploma Health Science (Massage and Sports Therapy) & Registered member of Massage New Zealand

The experience that I bring to my work

I became interested in the human body and movement as a dancer and trained as a dance teacher at the NZ School of Dance in the 1980’s. In later years I studied Health Science papers through Massey University. Looking for something more ‘hands on’ I found a programme in massage therapy at the NZ College of Massage in 2009 completing the Diploma in Health Science (Therapeutic Massage). I returned to the College for a further 6 months in 2011 to complete a post graduate Diploma in Health Science (Clinical and Sports Therapy). I have had the privilege to work with many amateur and professional athletes and dancers, including visiting sports teams such as the All Blacks.

These qualifications and experiences gained along with my background as a Dance Teacher have contributed to the knowledge I can share with my clients.

My professional interests

I have found myself becoming increasingly interested in the area of chronic pain and the effects of inflammation and auto immune diseases on the body. Massage can have some positive effects on these conditions. I am also keen to help active people remain active and get the most movement from their bodies as possible.  

My philosophy

I see my role as one of assistance and education for my clients. Helping them to help their own body recover and gain optimal performance.  I am also a big believer in continued education, the health field is one filled with changes and it is important to stay up to date with research and education.

What drives me

I find it immensely satisfying to help someone feel better. Whether it is just feeling more relaxed, improve their range of movement or to relieve pain.  

What makes me unique

I was fortunate to have had great training and I believe that learning is life-long. I aim to keep up to date with research and education. I am also very lucky to be part of a collaborative team of experts so if there is something that I am unable to provide my clients I am sure one of my team or external referral network will be able to help with.

CONTACT ALI

P 027 227 6177
E ali@bodyofwork.co.nz

Tanya Houpt
Exercise Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Pilates

Diploma in Sport Studies, Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation, Classical Pilates Instructor, Personal Trainer

The experience that I bring to my work

I have worked in the Health and Fitness industry for over 35 years in many different roles. I am a perpetual learner and attended university as an adult student which helped refine my area of expertise in rehabilitation to Exercise Therapy. I trained to instruct Classical Pilates in 2008, a turning point for me in terms of corrective movement. Used clinically, I prescribe exercises to correct maladapted postures, restore function, and prevent musculoskeletal issues. In 2020 and 2021, I completed all four postgraduate programs of the McKenzie Method, Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy which treats musculoskeletal issues. Working with hypermobility and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome lead to completion of an Integral Movement Method Course in 2023 to treat both conditions.

My professional interests

Corrective exercise, physical rehabilitation, and movement therapy. I am particularly interested in understanding and reducing factors that contribute to musculoskeletal pain and disability, such as maladaptive postures, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, surgery, injuries, emotional and psychological aspects.  

Hypermobility, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). A recent interest is working with hypermobile clients, particularly those with EDS. When in pain and or stressed, we respond by guarding and protecting our minds and bodies. The IMM (Integral Movement Method, is a no pain, no strain strategy, allowing the body to release stress and tension, replacing it with a calm nervous system and efficient movement patterns. Pain and discomfort, often stuck in the body for years, can often disappear making IMM effective for those experiencing PTSD and chronic pain. 

The McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy is the most researched physical therapy-based method available to date. Originally created for the lumbar spine, this effective and structured method is highly effective for all musculoskeletal problems. Most pain is mechanical in origin, meaning it results from abnormal or unusual movement and forces occurring in the tissue. If a movement or activity caused the pain, then it is logical that they could be part of the solution.

Pilates is part of my life. It is my main form of exercise; I do practice what I preach. The principles of Pilates are timeless, perfect for correcting maladapted postures, enhancing healthy ageing, and treating musculoskeletal conditions. 

My philosophy

Posture is paramount. This is not unique to older populations. Major postural issues are being seen in our younger generation due to postures assumed and adapted while using various devices. Necks, shoulders, and backs are being severely compromised; it won’t be long before our young are ‘old’.

Move it or lose it…well, move it correctly or lose it. Yes, you can take medication, stop doing what hurts, miss out on sports and activities, or let the garden run riot, but why should you? With our life expectancy increasing, I am an advocate for natural, sustained, healthy ageing, and optimising physical function to your full potential. The most sustainable, low-risk way to continue doing what you enjoy is through corrective exercise. 

Treat the person, not the condition. My clients receive all the ‘Insite’ and tools they need to self-manage their bodies, thereby enabling them to participate in activities they consider important in life. This aligns with my firm belief in a positive psychology approach to rehabilitation; finding what is right and increasing it!

What drives me

I am in awe of what our bodies can do. I am constantly motivated by the results I see daily in the studio. Preventing or delaying surgeries, enabling a reduction or cessation of medication, seeing clients self-manage their ‘condition’, reducing pain, and watching the progress of group session participants…this is what fuels me.   

What makes me unique

Experience, empathy, and a sharing of knowledge! I want to empower you.

CONTACT TANYA

P 027 443 5293
E insite@bodyofwork.co.nz

Gina Sarten
Naturopath, BodyTalk Practitioner, NLP Practitioner, Reiki Master/Trainer

Diploma Naturopathy

The experience that I bring to my work

My health practice is constantly evolving, I understand enough about health and many health issues to know that with every new client my concept could alter, its like the illusion is expanded and the picture becomes even more detailed. Life experience also provides a richer frame for this picture. I’ve been interested and working within Natural Health for over 20 years, for much of this time study and client work was beside my “day job” so I completely understand the work-life juggle. I certified as a BodyTalk Practitioner and Reiki Master/Trainer in 2008, although before that, it was my interest in using essential oils with my children that started everything. I qualified with a Diploma in Naturopathy in 2015 after studying part time for approximately eight years. This helped bring together my various modalities while adding so much more to my tool kit.

I use BodyTalk in many treatments as it can help someone out of stress (fight/flight) and into healing mode, without this a person can remain stuck in stress where their body’s ability to heal is reduced. The body is so clever at healing when we nurture it, but when we continue to throw daily stress, toxins, and trauma at it, it becomes less efficient, and pain and disease can thrive.

Combining BodyTalk (and sometimes also NLP) with Naturopathic knowledge means that my clients can resolve some issues faster.  Nutrition and lifestyle changes are often key to making improvement in health, however I also delve into what may be generating stress, how to change the way a client views their problems, look at their past, present, and future with a fresh perspective, remove self-sabotage, and generally reprioritise themselves. 

NLP (Neuro linguistic programming) works by interpreting and adjusting our perspective of the world around us, it means that we can alter long held beliefs and reframe situations to alter our interpretation. There are certain techniques which are proving excellent at working with anxiety, depression, phobias, and weight management. 

My professional interests

I see myself as a health & wellness coach (in addition to being a Naturopath), I can help people review their food choices – does their diet contain a variety of nutritious food; are there any food sensitivities, plus look at their lifestyle practices – do they get enough sleep; what about exercise; do they take any time to just enjoy their life; what is their work-life balance like? The goal is to make little changes easy, rather than becoming stressed and overwhelmed.

My clients come to see me for a daunting variety of health issues – eczema, fatigue, vertigo, anxiety, depression, digestive issues, IBS, heavy periods, headaches, low immunity, weight management, to name just a few.  However, it’s clear that stress complicates everything, and in many cases is the number one driver.

I’ve had an interest in working with stress, anxiety and depression for a few years, its something that has become increasingly common in all age groups, questions like “why do I feel like this?”, “where has my energy gone?”, “how do I get back to being me?”. I still investigate nutrition and life-style choices, but that doesn’t always seem to be enough. We put so much pressure on ourselves to perform our best all the time. I keep meeting active relaxers, people who have not learnt to relax, the concern is that they also struggle to decompress from stress.  NLP is another tool to help make changes in this area.

Recently I’ve begun treatments for vaccine damage focused on healing the energetic body which then encourages healing on the physical body. There is a technique for this within the BodyTalk protocol, plus I’ve begun training (Feb 2022) to read the energy centres for a second treatment option.

My philosophy

My philosophy is simply to do everything I can to help my clients improve their health and wellbeing.   

My intention with every client is to treat them with respect, to understand how their past and present (and sometimes concern over the future) has resulted in their health challenges and find ways to make improvements. I don’t diagnose. Instead, I will build a picture of a client’s symptoms and history, any medication, current food intake, current lifestyle, to then create a treatment plan.

I believe that good health is possible for all, yes, some health conditions are more challenging, and recovery may not be absolute or in some cases possible, but there are still some gains to be had by learning about the client and addressing issues. It’s like repairing a “sick” car, maybe the suspension is weak, there’s a chronic oil leak, a hole in the muffler, and the brake pads are worn. Individually these are usually relatively minor, but together it’s more of a headache, if not repaired things are sure to get worse. The same concept applies to our human body, resolve the relatively minor issues before things escalate.

What drives me

I’m passionate about my clients’ health! I worked for a long time in finance where I didn’t feel that my work made a difference in the greater scheme of things. Helping people understand what their symptoms actually mean, and teaching ways to regain their health is immensely rewarding, I finally feel that I am making a difference.

What makes me unique

The variety of tools in my kit, plus I bring empathy and my clear, open energy to each situation. I spend time with a client and listen to what they say, I may ask curly questions and I encourage clients to be open and honest in a safe, non-judgemental, confidential environment. As a Naturopath I’m trained to treat the whole person (body/mind/spirit) not just particular symptoms, the more information I can gather about a client the better I can do this.

I’m able to work remotely, appointments are currently on-line rather than in person.

CONTACT GINA

P 021 576 149
E gina@bodyofwork.co.nz

Tania Woolford
Massage, Naturopathy & Nutrition

Dip. Therapeutic Massage, Dip. Massage and Sports Therapy, Studying Naturopathy and Nutrition

The experience that I bring to my work

I hold a Diploma in Therapeutic Massage, a Diploma in Massage and Sports Therapy, a certificate in infant massage instruction and am currently studying Naturopathy and Nutrition. 

I’ve worked as a therapist since 2012 in a variety of environments including multidisciplinary clinics, corporate settings, sports events and guiding massage students. 

This has provided experience with a wide range of people and conditions including chronic pain, migraines, injuries, OOS, high stress and post-operative care. I provide myofascial release, assisted stretching, remedial, sports, pregnancy and relaxation massage. Ultimately treatment is guided by the needs of the client. 

My professional interests

I have a great respect for the complexity of the human body, therefore, love the constant opportunity to assist in rehabilitation and provide tools that contribute towards an individual’s wellbeing.I am passionate about holistic healthcare, wellbeing, nutrition, yoga and mindfulness. 

My philosophy

I believe in providing supportive client focused treatment tailored to your needs to bring a bit of balance, help improve quality of life, increase body awareness or empowering you to be involved in your own wellness. 

What drives me

I consider that massage can benefit every one in different ways, especially in today’s fast paced society, where we may miss providing self care for ourselves. I find it rewarding working with clients towards their goals, whether that be alleviating pain, facilitatingrelaxation or training for sports events.

What makes me unique

I am a mother, student and work a physical job, so intimately understand the impact of these on the body. I experienced chronic migraines for 25 years, therefore have an in depth understanding and a special interest in assisting migraine sufferers. 

CONTACT TANIA

P 021 070 6620
E tania@bodyofwork.co.nz

Mark Gray
Bodywork and Hakomi Practitioner

Masters Therapeutic Bodywork, Certificate Structural Integration, and Practitioner and Trainer Certification in the Hakomi Method*

* Hakomi is a method of assisted Self-Discovery

The experience that I bring to my work

My bodywork journey started in 1991, with a 7 day introduction to Structural Integration at the Mana Retreat Centre in the Coromandel. I finished the 18 month Structural Integration training in 1993 and then headed off to Europe for a 6 month OE, I stayed for 22 years! Based in London, I had a bodywork practice, got a Masters in Therapeutic Bodywork, became a certified Hakomi practitioner and trainer, and worked for 12 years at the University of Westminster’s School of Life Sciences in London where I was the Programme Leader and Principal Lecturer on a BSc(Hons) in Neuromuscular Therapy. 

My professional interests

I am curious about how we adapt both physically and mentally over time to the experience of our lives. My key interest is to begin to understand this experience especially the core patterns and to evaluate the things that are still relevant and those that are not. One of my favourite sayings is, ”you are perfect just as you are, and you could use a little improvement.” —Shunryu Suzuki 

My philosophy

I believe a person-centred approach provides an effective model for how to work with clients. We need to create a therapeutic environment that recognises and works with the unique personal qualities, experience, knowledge and skills each of our clients brings. This requires that as therapists we have a variety of approaches to draw on and the awareness to use them to meet individual needs. 

What drives me

I simply want to make a positive difference, not that it’s actually that simple! 

What makes me unique

Not really convinced that I am that unique, but perhaps the focus on what’s working rather than what’s not, in other words acknowledging and working with client strengths.  

CONTACT MARK

P 022 436 2398
E mark@bodyworkskills.co.nz

Trina Woodcock
Massage Therapist

Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage (Level 7)

The experience that I bring to my work

I studied massage therapy at Southern Institute of Technology in Invercargill and received my degree (level 7) in 2019. All through my studies I worked within a clinical setting seeing clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with sports teams, having provided in-season sports massage for the Southland Stags rugby team, Southern Steel netball team, and the Nutragrain Pioneer Mountain Bike event along with other smaller events throughout Southland. My treatments use a range of techniques such as
neuromuscular, massage with movement, deep tissue techniques, myofascial release, along with pain management and rehabilitation exercises. 

My professional interests 

The growing number of chronic pain sufferers seems never ending and I have an interest in helping improve quality of life through reducing musculoskeletal pain and mobility restrictions. Along with implementing a personalised rehabilitation program and pain management education. I have worked a lot with people affected by herniated discs, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Having been involved in netball and the equestrian world for most of my life and I have a particular interest in helping with the common aches and pains that accompany these sports. I understand the dynamics and how the body works when performing and aim to keep the body aligned for athletes to perform at their best. 

My philosophy 

Massage therapy is a team effort from both client and therapist working together to achieve realistic goals. I believe that although no two people are the same, we all want the same thing- to have the freedom and ability to move without hinderance. Through a treatment plan that suits one's lifestyle and availability and willingness, I aim to achieve those goals.

What drives me 

I have always had an interest in helping people and enjoy being a part of positive changes in a person's lifestyle no matter how small. Building connections through a non-invasive pain management option is rewarding. 

What makes me unique

Having completed a research project in my third year, I appreciate the need for constant professional development. New information is always being produced and to help inform my clients of recent developments or alternate strategies, I aim to gather all possible information available. This allows me to have an informed opinion and reduce any basis. 

CONTACT TRINA

P 022 176 1701
E trina@bodyofwork.co.nz

Jena Oberg
Acupuncture

Dr. Acu, Dip. Acu (Honours), NZASA, ACC registered, RYT-200, DIT

The experience that I bring to my work

I studied Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) at MacEwan University in Canada. I was inspired by the transformative effects of Chinese Medicine in my own life, which led me to leave my job as a commercial interior designer and pursue my passion for Acupuncture. In order to practice as an Acupuncturist in Canada, I successfully completed rigorous national and provincial board exams focused on safety and competence. Prior to relocating to New Zealand, I gained valuable experience working in a bustling functional medical acupuncture clinic.

During my Acupuncture studies, I also dedicated myself to obtaining my yoga teacher certification. For five years, I taught yoga while attending university, gaining firsthand knowledge of body mechanics and movement therapy. Teaching yoga allowed me to work with diverse groups of individuals and witness the incredible potential of the human body.

As a registered member of the New Zealand Acupuncture Standards Authority and an approved ACC treatment service provider, I am committed to delivering a practice that is safe, competent, and respectful, adhering to high standards.

My Professional Interests

I am deeply passionate about assisting individuals with a diverse range of concerns, encompassing stress management, emotional well-being, musculoskeletal injuries and pain management, pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care, digestive and respiratory issues, fatigue, sleep difficulties, as well as women's health and menstrual-related challenges.

My philosophy

The foundation of my philosophy lies in the holistic nature of Chinese medicine, which recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and mental systems within the body. I utilize education and lifestyle recommendations to empower individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions that enhance their overall well-being. 

What drives me

What drives me is the realization that Acupuncture, as a powerful healing modality, remains underutilized. I consider myself fortunate to be able to bring this transformative medicine to those who are in need. Establishing connections with clients and witnessing their improved well-being brings me immense satisfaction.

What makes me unique

What sets me apart is my belief that every client and condition is unique. I approach each individual with personalized care, tailoring treatment plans to their specific needs. By addressing all aspects of well-being, I aim for clients to experience not only physical improvements but also mental and emotional well-being after leaving the treatment room. I delve deep into conditions, offering advice that extends beyond Acupuncture to include supplements, lifestyle recommendations, and rehabilitative exercises and movements. Taking a holistic approach, I strive to provide well-rounded treatments that bring healing in many aspects. 

CONTACT JENA

P 022 392 9085
E jena@bodyofwork.co.nz

Lisa Roberts
Massage Therapist

Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage

The experience that I bring to my work

I have had the privilege of working with a diverse clientele spanning different walks of life. This includes IT professionals, retirees, weekend warriors, expectant mothers, as well as both amateur and professional athletes, such as ultra-marathon runners, dancers, cyclists, and local sports teams like the Phoenix, the Saints, the Lions, the All Blacks, and various visiting international sports teams.

My Professional Interests

My primary professional interest centres around the parasympathetic nervous system, renowned for its association with the “rest and digest” response. Activating the parasympathetic nervous system offers various advantages, including stress reduction, heart health, improved digestive function, enhanced sleep, quicker recovery, heightened mental clarity and calmness, reinforced immune system support, better emotional well-being, and enhanced stress resilience.

My philosophy

My role is that of a guide and educator for my clients. I aim to empower them to engage in their body’s healing process actively. I am a strong proponent of ongoing education, recognising the dynamic nature of the healthcare field and the significance of staying up-to-date with the latest research and knowledge.

What drives me

What truly drives me is the deep sense of fulfilment I experience when I can enhance the well-being of individuals. Whether it involves improving their feelings of relaxation, increasing their mobility, or relieving their discomfort, I’m fueled by the positive influence I can have on my clients’ holistic health.

What makes me unique

I distinguish myself through exceptional training, intuitive hands, and an unwavering commitment to ongoing learning. Additionally, I am fortunate to be a part of a collaborative team of experts. Should there be a service or support beyond my expertise, my team or external referral network can provide the necessary assistance.

CONTACT LISA

P 027 387 2524
E lisar@bodyofwork.co.nz

Julie Routier
Holistic Counsellor

Holistic Counselling HH Dip (H.C), Therapeutic Massage BRT Dip. , Holistic Psychology Practitioner Dip., Healthcare Assistant Cert., IHPM registered.

The experience that I bring to my work

My career started as a professional dancer evolving into bodywork, health, therapeutic & healing modalities when at a young age, I discovered that I was the bridge between the physical and the spiritual realms and that I could communicate with the invisible which enabled my psychic, intuitive, healing & channeling abilities. This spiritual awareness and my background in the field of health have benefitted my appreciation for both tangible and mystical perceptions when it comes to physical and mental wellbeing. And my life experiences have also opened my perception of the connection between physical health and emotions. Today these anchors my work to support and guide individuals on their journey. I followed my heart’s calling and that is what brought me onto this path. I have been a holistic practitioner for many years now and have had great satisfaction in guiding beautiful souls on their journey to health and healing. My work as a healer has made my life incredible and continues to do so every day!

My Professional Interests

Deciphering what is hidden behind the body's ailments has been one of my purposes, and seeing the changes in my client's life on so many levels has defined the base of my work. To me our physical health is a manifestation of our thoughts and experiences, so to treat the body we must acknowledge the incorporeal senses and non-physical factors affecting our wellness. The connection I have with the Universe, the world above and below, growing with it, and understanding it has given me the ability to see in-depth what is creating stagnation in the subtle bodies and what to do to transform it. Therefore, this became my quest to guide people on that journey and give them tools that will serve them throughout their lives.

My philosophy

One of my core beliefs is that it is possible to take care of ourselves and our health in a holistic way. In the quest for optimal health and wellness, it is essential to consider the whole of an individual; body, mind, soul, emotions, and external factors, so that any being can live their life fully. Our body is one of the most precious assets, it is the vehicle in which we can deliver our purpose and potential to the world, and it deserves care and attention.

What drives me

Empowering individuals by supporting them in lifting the veil, and bringing to the light the shadow sides of the Self to enlighten them to a deeper inner awareness and awakening. I counsel them in exploring these aspects of themselves with different healing and therapeutic modalities to bring back the natural flow of life within them. The transformation & sacred journey I will take them on will enable them to reach wellbeing by liberating themselves from traumas, conditioning, and self-limiting beliefs rooted in past experiences that are no longer serving them to move forward in their life.

By doing so, they will be able to reclaim their gifts, reconnect with their true authentic self, and align with their life’s deepest desires. Being the witness of someone's liberation is simply magnificent!

What makes me unique

Holism is the concept that everything is interconnected in one’s life, we need to consider the social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental aspects of someone's existence. This means one is unable to coexist without the other and one is unable to find balance when the other is imbalanced within the whole. I have been an advocate for holistic practice for many years and hold so much wisdom to connect to the inter and multidimensional aspect of a person which allows me to guide them on their path of healing and transformation. I propose holistic counselling consultations in the capacity of online, walk & talk, somatic, and bodywork therapy. The sessions will be focused on understanding my clients' unique needs with the integrative and therapeutic techniques that are the most appropriate for them to find balance, happiness, and peace in themselves and create the life they desire.

CONTACT JULIE

P 021 209 7739
E julieroutier8@gmail.com

Book your session at www.julieroutier.com

Santi Sallago
Massage Therapist

Remedial Massage Therapist (level 6), Wellness and relaxation (level 5)

The experience I bring to my work

 I am a certified Remedial Massage Therapist (level 6) with additional training in wellness and relaxation (level 5). Since 2021, I've practiced in diverse settings including health clinics, specialized massage therapy centres, and at various sporting events, ranging from marathons to football, rugby, and crossfit competitions. 

My professional interests 

My journey into massage therapy is deeply rooted in my passion for sports. Having transitioned from a former basketball player to a CrossFit competitor, I intimately understand the vital role of recovery in our daily lives. My goal is simple: to assist my clients in reaching their full potential and peak performance across all facets of life while fostering a state of relaxed well-being for their body and mind. 

My philosophy 

I'm deeply committed to assisting my clients not only through treatment but also through education. Simultaneously, I embrace the opportunity to continually learn from my clients, recognizing that each individual is a unique world unto themselves. I believe in the power of personalized and tailored treatments to benefit everyone.

What drives me

Empowering individuals to enhance their well-being, experience improvement, and unlock their full potential. Building meaningful connections through the impact of effective treatments.

What makes me unique

That's for my clients to say! But if I must choose, I have good energy that I try to transmit to the people I work with.