Zen alternative is offered

A new business specialising in alternative treatment and healing for the mind, body and soul has opened in Woy Woy

The Zen Healing and Message Clinic in Chambers St, which has been open since February, seeks to cater for Peninsula residents who are interested in exploring alternative medicine and treatments to cure physical and emotional ailments.

Clinic practitioner Julie Byrne, who founded and is in charge of the clinic, is a specialist in the traditional Japanese medicinal practice of Zen Shiatsu.

Zen Shiatsu, which can be roughly translated as "finger pressure", emphasises massaging and other supportive touch techniques to promote physical health and the well being of the mind.

The practice is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine but was devised in Japan during the last century

It is becoming increasingly popular in Australia and is attracting a considerable number of clients in the Central Coast, she said

The exact treatment prescribed will vary depending on the requirements of the individual clients

According to Ms Byrne, massage treatments may have the specific purpose of being relaxing or nurturing in approach but also can be designed to address the specific health needs of the client

While the treatment will benefit people of all ages and backgrounds Ms Byrne says the treatment will be especially useful for those suffering from ailments such as back aches, asthma, depression and other ailments relating to the physical or emotional state

Ms Byrne also runs workshops that focus on self-nurturing and recently conducted a successful workshop at a school in Terrigal

The workshops balances giving with receiving and includes being taught and receiving Zen Shiatsu massages

They are particularly useful for those in a caring profession and for women

Ms Byrne is originally from Sydney but has lived on the Peninsula for the last six years

She has a Diploma of Zen Shiatsu from the Sydney Shiatsu College and also a Bachelor of Arts majoring in welfare as well as Reiki qualifications.

Owen Lewis, May 25