My passion for massage therapy can be traced back to my late thirties, when I spotted a basic massage course advertised in the local Howick paper. I specifically remember thinking “that would be fun to try!”
That was it—as soon as I started, I knew that this was what I wanted to do. This initial introduction course soon turned into a Diploma in Therapeutic Massage and a busy massage therapy practice. I began seeing clients in a converted section of our home, and then created two dedicated clinic rooms and a reception downstairs. It has been a privilege to grow and develop my business, contracting other qualified therapists. After nearly ten years, the practice was sold to one of my team members who rebranded it to Elemental Body Therapies.
When the new owner relocated several years later, I bought the business back; it was then that we moved into our current premises on Picton Street. It’s wonderful to be located in central Howick and create connections with long-term local clients. Coming to work feels like coming home!
Throughout the course of my career I have also taught at the New Zealand College of Massage, served as an examiner there, and held the post of Chairperson of the NZ Massage Association for several years. It has been a pleasure to be immersed in the world of massage therapy in many different capacities.
At Elemental Body Therapies we offer therapies including massage for relaxation, sports, pregnancy, injury, and oncology. Additionally, we can provide lymphatic drainage, reflexology, and Bowen Therapy. Our three therapists cover a range of different styles—many clients move between therapists to try the different types of massage and find what suits them best. We love to help each person who comes to the clinic find a therapy or treatment that works for them, based on what they need at the time.
In these difficult times, the stress relief effect of massage is a major benefit and one that we are so pleased to offer our busy clients. Regardless of which treatment you’re having, the relaxation component is always present. A visit to EBT is time away from the world, complete with soothing music, calm surroundings, and a therapist focused on YOU.
The lockdowns have been difficult for our business, stopping our practice in its tracks for weeks at a time on many occasions. Under the traffic light system we have been able to open for everybody, and it has been both surprising and gratifying to see so many of our old clients—and new ones!—return. The clinic has strict hygiene protocols, including having air purifiers running in the well-ventilated treatment rooms at all times. We also ensure that the environment is comfortable and luxurious for a memorable experience.
We are open six days a week and bookings are easy to make online at elementalbodytherapies.co.nz.