http://www.barefootholistichealth.com/

Barefoot Holistic Health, Shop 5, 14 Denham Street, Rockhampton City (2025)

03/09/2025

What Is Functional Medicine? A Holistic & Naturopathic Perspective 🌿

In today's fast-paced world, many people are searching for answers to chronic health issues that conventional medicine often only manages with symptom-based approaches. Functional medicine offers a refreshing, deeply investigative, and highly personalized path forward—one that aligns beautifully with holistic and naturopathic principles.

▪️What Is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is a systems-based, patient-centered approach that aims to identify and address the root causes of disease and dysfunction. Rather than simply suppressing symptoms, functional medicine seeks to understand why the symptoms are occurring in the first place.

From a naturopathic and holistic perspective, this approach honors the body's innate ability to heal and maintain balance when given the right support. It recognizes that all body systems are interconnected—what affects one organ or pathway often impacts others.

▪️How Can Functional Medicine Help?

Functional medicine is a powerful tool for both prevention and the treatment of chronic and complex conditions. It can be used to uncover:

➡️ Nutrient deficiencies that may be impacting your energy, immunity, or mental clarity

➡️ Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid dysfunction, adrenal fatigue, or reproductive hormone disturbances

➡️ Neurotransmitter dysfunction, which can contribute to mood disorders, anxiety, and brain fog

➡️ Metabolic imbalances, including insulin resistance, inflammation, and sluggish detoxification pathways

➡️ Gut health issues, such as leaky gut, dysbiosis, or food sensitivities

These imbalances are often underlying causes of symptoms like fatigue, bloating, depression, skin issues, infertility, and autoimmune conditions—just to name a few.

▪️Tailoring Naturopathic Treatment with Functional Testing

One of the strengths of functional medicine is the use of advanced testing to uncover hidden imbalances that are often missed in standard blood work. This includes:

✅ Functional pathology testing for in-depth analysis of hormones, digestion, nutrients, and more

✅ DNA and genetic testing, which can reveal individual SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) that affect how your body processes nutrients, detoxifies toxins, manages inflammation, and metabolizes hormones

✅ By understanding your unique genetic blueprint, we can support your body in the most aligned way—choosing the right supplements, foods, and lifestyle practices to optimize your health and reduce risk of disease.

▪️The Importance of Working with a Qualified Practitioner

Functional medicine is both an art and a science. To get the most out of it, it’s essential to work with a properly trained, qualified, and insured practitioner—especially one with a background in naturopathic medicine and a deep understanding of how to interpret functional tests and clinical pathology.

This expertise ensures that your treatment is not only personalized but also safe, evidence-informed, and targeted to your unique body and needs.

▪️A Holistic View of the Body

One of the most beautiful aspects of functional medicine is its holistic lens. It doesn’t look at your symptoms in isolation—it sees how every system in your body is connected.

🔹Your gut can influence your mood.

🔹Your hormones can affect your skin and sleep.

🔹Your detoxification pathways can impact your immune system and energy levels.

By looking at the body as an integrated whole, we can find answers that conventional medicine may overlook—and correct the dysfunction at its root, rather than just masking it.

▪️Creating Lasting, Long-Term Health

Functional medicine isn't about quick fixes. It’s about creating a deep, lasting transformation in your health by understanding and supporting the unique needs of your body.

When we address the underlying causes of disease and imbalance, the body has an incredible capacity to return to harmony. With the right guidance, personalized testing, and holistic support, long-term wellness becomes not just possible—but achievable.

👉🏼 Are you ready to discover the deeper answers behind your symptoms?

Work with a practitioner who understands your whole story—body, mind, genetics, and lifestyle—to create a path toward true, lasting wellness.

For more information or to book an appointment:

💻 www.barefootholistichealth.com

📞 Alternatively call or text Nicki on 0478 303 376

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼

You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

29/08/2025

💚🩵 Last Minute Appointment 🩵💚

Due to a last minute cancellation, I have availability tomorrow at 9:00am

Services available include;

✨Remedial Massage & Musculoskeletal Therapy
✨Naturopathy
✨Aromatherapy
✨Pregnancy Massage (specialised Belly Pillows used to support comfortable front lying).

To secure your spot, just send a message or give Nicki a call on 0478 303 376

I look forward to seeing you in clinic soon 💚🩵

24/08/2025

🥗✨ Great Healthy Lunch Option – Vegan Black Bean Salsa Bowls ✨🥗

Looking for a nourishing, grab-and-go lunch that fuels your body and supports your wellbeing? These Black Bean Salsa Bowls are packed with whole-food goodness — and the best part is you can meal prep them the night before. Just grab and go! 🌱

🌿 Why your body will love it:

Plant-based protein (14g per serve) – from black beans and quinoa, to keep you satisfied and energised

Prebiotic fibre (11g per serve) – supporting gut health, digestion, and a thriving microbiome

Magnesium & potassium – calming minerals to support nervous system health and muscle recovery

Iron & B vitamins – for energy production and vitality

Vitamin C & antioxidants – boosting immunity and reducing oxidative stress

Healthy fats (olive oil) – nourishing for brain and hormone balance

💚 Holistic tip: Prepping ahead means less stress, more balance, and a simple way to stay aligned with your health goals during busy weeks.

Delicious, vibrant, and full of veg — this is holistic nourishment at its best! 🌸

Download the full recipe below ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://drive.google.com/file/d/12dr1sKfUYLe1FDSUfAkUJtbNMdcluzNi/view?usp=drivesdk

For more information or to book an appointment, visit 💻 https://barefootholistichealth.com/
📞 Alternatively call or text Nicki on 0478 303 376

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼

You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

21/08/2025

🌿 Live Aligned: A Gentle Reminder from Within 🌿

In the rush of everyday life, we often forget that healing isn’t just about treating symptoms — it’s about honoring every version of ourselves.

✨ Live your life so your inner child feels safe, your present self feels seen, and your future self feels sacred. ✨

This is the heart of holistic and naturopathic living. True wellness is rooted in deep self-compassion and connection:

🧸 Your inner child craves safety — emotional warmth, rest, and play.
🌱 Your present self longs to be acknowledged — to be heard, held, and honored in your choices.
🔮 Your future self deserves intention — choices made with love, health, and purpose.

Whether it’s nourishing your body with whole foods, creating quiet space for breath and reflection, or gently reparenting the parts of you that still ache — you are worthy of this care.

Healing is not linear. It’s a sacred spiral. Come home to yourself.

For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.barefootholistichealth.com

📞 Alternatively call or text Nicki on 0478 303 376

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼

You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

21/08/2025

🚨 Our New Website is LIVE! 🚨
We’ve made it easier than ever to learn more, explore our services, and book in just a few clicks.

✅ Fresh new look
✅ Easy navigation
✅ Quick booking process
✅ All the info you need in one place

Check it out now 👉 www.barefootholistichealth.com

Let us know what you think!

21/08/2025

🌿 Nurturing Vaginal Health During Perimenopause & Menopause 🌿

As women move through perimenopause and into menopause, the body undergoes a number of natural hormonal changes. These shifts can sometimes bring challenges—particularly for va**nal health. By understanding what is happening physiologically, and by integrating gentle, holistic practices, we can better support comfort, intimacy, and overall wellbeing during this life stage.

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🔄 Hormonal Changes and Their Impact

During perimenopause (the transitional years before menopause), levels of oestrogen and progesterone gradually begin to decline. Once menopause is reached (defined as 12 months without a menstrual cycle), these hormones remain consistently lower.

Because oestrogen plays a key role in maintaining va**nal tissue health, reduced levels can lead to:

🌵 Vaginal dryness – reduced natural lubrication, causing friction during intimacy

⚖ Vaginal atrophy (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause) – thinning of the va**nal walls, reduced elasticity, and loss of muscle tone

💔 Discomfort or pain during s*x – making intimacy less enjoyable

🚽 Increased risk of urinary tract infections – due to changes in pH and tissue resilience

👉 While these changes are common, they are not something women need to simply “put up with.” There are many safe, effective ways to nourish va**nal health during this time.

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💪 Pelvic Floor Strength & Tone

As oestrogen decreases, pelvic tissues—including the va**nal wall and muscles—can become weaker, affecting both intimacy and bladder control.

Pelvic floor exercises (commonly known as Kegels) help strengthen the muscles that support the va**na, uterus, and bladder. With regular practice, women can:

▪️Improve muscle tone

▪️Reduce urinary leakage

▪️Support va**nal elasticity

👉 For extra support, tools like Perifit (a pelvic floor trainer paired with a mobile app) guide exercises and track progress in real-time.
🔗 Learn more: www.perifit.co

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💧 Natural Moisture & Lubrication Support

🧴 Daily Moisture & Prevention of Atrophy

YES VM Vaginal Moisturiser – A natural, pH-balanced option to hydrate and protect delicate va**nal tissue. Use regularly (not just during intimacy) to help prevent dryness and atrophy.

❤️ Comfort During S*x

YES Water-Based Lubricant – Offers gentle, natural-feeling lubrication.

YES Oil-Based Lubricant – Provides longer-lasting comfort for significant dryness.

✅ Both are free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and synthetic fragrances—safe and gentle choices.
🔗 Explore the range: YES Australia

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🍑 Sea Buckthorn for Vaginal Health

A natural remedy gaining popularity is Sea Buckthorn Oil—rich in omega-7, vitamin E, and antioxidants.

Benefits include:

💧 Restores moisture to va**nal tissues

🔄 Supports elasticity and resilience

🌿 Reduces dryness, burning, and irritation

🔐 May help protect against UTIs by supporting mucosal integrity

🧴 Available as supplements (capsules or oil) or in va**nal moisturisers.

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💞 S*x, Intimacy & Connection

For many women, s*x during this life stage becomes more about emotional intimacy and connection.

💡 Tips:

▪️Explore your body—what feels good now may be different than before

▪️Communicate openly with your partner about body changes, desires, and boundaries

▪️Embrace a deeper, more connected relationship—intimacy can become more fulfilling than ever

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🔥 Libido & Desire for S*x

A drop in oestrogen and testosterone can affect desire, arousal, and energy levels. But libido is often multi-causal, also influenced by:

😞 Stress and emotional fatigue

💔 Disconnection in relationships

💤 Low energy or sluggish metabolism

🧪 Nutrient deficiencies or hormone imbalances

🌿 Naturopathic care can help by addressing:

✅ Hormone balance

✅ Energy and metabolism

✅ Stress resilience

✅ Nervous system and mood regulation

💚 Holistic care supports both the physical and emotional aspects of libido.

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🌱 Lifestyle & Holistic Considerations

Vaginal health is deeply connected to overall wellbeing. Support your body with:

💧 Hydration & nutrition – Eat nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods; omega-3s and omega-7s support tissue hydration

🧘‍♀️ Stress management – Practices like yoga, meditation, and breathwork regulate cortisol and support hormones

🏃‍♀️ Movement & circulation – Regular exercise improves blood flow and tissue repair

🧠 Mind-body connection – Gentle awareness practices (like body scan meditation) help women reconnect with their changing bodies

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🩺 When to Seek Further Support

If you're experiencing:

➡️ Ongoing va**nal dryness

➡️ Pain or discomfort during intimacy

➡️ Frequent UTIs

➡️ Low libido impacting daily life

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🌸 In Summary

Perimenopause and menopause are natural transitions, but they don’t need to be uncomfortable or disempowering. With a blend of:

✅ Pelvic floor support

✅ Natural moisturisers and lubricants

✅ Sea buckthorn oil

✅ Herbal and nutrient therapy

✅ Emotional and relational connection

✅ Lifestyle and self-care practices

…you can continue to feel comfortable, confident, and connected to your body.

💖 This is a time for nourishment, self-discovery, and new ways of experiencing intimacy—empowering you to thrive in this next life chapter.

For more info about me or to book an appointment in clinic visit www.barefootholistichealth.com
Alternatively call or text Nicki 0478 303 376

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼 You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

20/08/2025

🌿 What is Somatic Healing? 🌿

Have you ever felt tension in your shoulders during times of stress, or a knot in your stomach when you're anxious? That’s your body speaking.

Somatic healing is a gentle, body-based therapeutic approach that helps us listen to those signals—releasing stored tension, trauma, and emotional pain from the nervous system. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses primarily on the mind, somatic healing recognises that trauma and stress live in the body as much as in our thoughts.

Using practices such as:
🌀 Breathwork – to calm the nervous system and restore balance
🌀 Mindful movement – to reconnect with your body safely and slowly
🌀 Guided meditation and body scanning – to bring awareness to held tension
🌀 Light touch or sound therapy – to support release and integration

Somatic therapy supports your body in safely processing and resolving what’s been stored—sometimes for years.

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🌸 What Are the Benefits?

People come to somatic therapy for many reasons. Some are recovering from trauma, grief, or burnout. Others are navigating anxiety, chronic pain, or just feeling disconnected from themselves.

Benefits can include:
✔ Greater emotional regulation
✔ Relief from chronic stress, anxiety, or overwhelm
✔ Better sleep and energy levels
✔ Improved connection to your body and intuition
✔ Release of physical tension and pain
✔ Increased resilience and inner calm
✔ Support for trauma recovery and integration

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🧘 4-Week Somatic Healing Program 🧘

If you’re curious about somatic therapy, or looking to start your healing journey in a supportive and structured way, this 4-week program is designed to guide you through foundational somatic practices in a safe, nurturing space.

🔹 What’s Included:

Intake Session (Week 1)
We'll discuss your background, challenges, and goals. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your needs. We may also introduce grounding techniques like body scan meditation.

Initial Session (Week 2)
This is where we start tuning in more deeply. We’ll begin exploring sensations in the body, noticing where tension or discomfort may be stored. We'll gently uncover the emotional patterns, beliefs, or memories that may be connected to these sensations.

Follow-Up Sessions (Weeks 3 & 4)
We continue building on what we've discovered, integrating more body-based practices such as gentle movement, sound therapy, breathwork, and supportive touch (if in person). Each session helps you release, rebuild, and restore—at your own pace.

🕒 Details:

▪️Each session is 60 minutes
▪️Total program cost: $595
▪️Sessions are available In-Clinic or via TeleHealth
▪️Available Mondays (including after-hours) & Saturdays
▪️All sessions must be completed within 12 weeks
▪️Yoga mats, blankets, and props provided for in-clinic sessions
▪️Comfortable clothing recommended

Between sessions, you'll be supported with:
📝 Journaling prompts
💨 Breathing exercises
🎧 Guided meditations
🧘 Gentle movement or yoga practices

All resources are provided to help you continue your healing at home.

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✨ After the Program

After completing the 4-week course, many clients choose to continue with individual somatic sessions as needed. These follow-ups can help maintain progress, deepen your practice, and continue supporting you through life’s changes.

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💌 Ready to Begin?

If this resonates with you, or you're curious to learn more, I’d love to connect. Somatic healing is powerful work—and you don’t have to do it alone.

For more info about me or to book an appointment in clinic visit www.barefootholistichealth.com
Alternatively call or text Nicki 0478 303 376

And if you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼 You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️.

Let’s start the journey back to your body, back to yourself. 🤍

05/08/2025

You don’t need to shame yourself for having difficult days 💚🩵

Every part of your healing journey matters — even the tough moments. Shame can deeply affect both your mental and physical wellbeing, often leading to self-neglect and unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Instead, try meeting yourself with compassion, curiosity, and care. Mistakes and setbacks are part of being human. With gentle self-forgiveness, you create space for emotional balance, physical healing, and real personal growth.

🌿 Healing begins with acceptance. If you're ready to take that next step, I'm here to support you.

You are worthy of healing 🩵💚

📞 Reach out via 0478 303 376
🌐 Or visit www.barefootholistichealth.com

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼 You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

03/08/2025

RECIPE OF THE WEEK - Berry Yoghurt Breakfast Smoothie 🩵💚

Quick • Nourishing • Gut-Loving

Let’s talk breakfast — skipping it might seem harmless, but it’s actually linked to slower metabolism, fat storage, and even weight gain. Start your day right with this easy, anti-inflammatory smoothie that supports energy, digestion, and hormone balance.

🍓 Berry Yoghurt Breakfast Smoothie
A powerhouse blend of:
✔️ Low-sugar berries – rich in antioxidants, gentle on blood sugar
✔️ Chia seeds – fibre + omega-3s for brain and gut health
✔️ Yoghurt – probiotic goodness (use coconut yoghurt if dairy-free)
✔️ Turmeric & Ginger – natural anti-inflammatories
✔️ Milk alternative of your choice – just check it’s seed oil free!

💡 Time-saving tip: Prep the night before and store in the fridge. In the morning, just grab, blend (if needed), and go!

👉 Your body deserves nourishment — not a coffee and an empty stomach.

💚 Tag someone who needs this in their morning routine!

Download from the link below ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Un_aaYAmvmi6vYD77__zCs69d8p_6C37/view?usp=drivesdk

For more info or to book an appointment, visit www.barefootholistichealth.com
Alternatively call or text Nicki 0478 303 376

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼 You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

01/08/2025

Thanks to Wicked Tales for these amazing pics 💚🩵

A friend asked me if I was aging backwards after seeing these photos... 😊
With my 43rd birthday just around the corner, I can honestly say I feel healthier, stronger, and more at peace than I ever did in my 20's.

🌿 Vibrant health is more than skin deep — it’s a harmony of mind, body, and soul.

✨ Real wellness means:
🧠 Nurturing your emotional world – through self-awareness, boundaries, and compassion.
💪 Caring for your physical body – with nourishing food, movement, hydration, and rest.
💫 Honoring your soul – by living in alignment with your values, your purpose, and your worth.

This kind of alignment changes everything. It’s not about chasing youth, it’s about choosing vitality 💚🩵

If you're struggling to feel like yourself and ready to start your healing journey towards becoming the happiest, healthiest and most vibrant version of yourself, I'd love to help you!

For more info about me or to book an appointment in clinic visit www.barefootholistichealth.com
Alternatively call or text Nicki 0478 303 376

If you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼 You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

I look forward to seeing you in clinic soon 💚🩵

30/07/2025

Weight Loss for Women Over 40: Thriving Through Perimenopause and Menopause 🩵💚

As women enter their 40s and beyond, the journey toward maintaining a healthy weight often becomes more complex. Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can shift the body’s metabolism, alter fat distribution, and make it harder to lose weight.

But here's the good news: sustainable, healthy weight loss is possible. It just requires a more tailored, supportive approach that honors the changes your body is going through.

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🔷 Understanding Hormonal Shifts

During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate and decline, impacting everything from insulin sensitivity to muscle mass and fat storage. This can lead to:

🔹Increased belly fat

🔹Slower metabolism

🔹Loss of lean muscle

🔹Blood sugar imbalances

🔹Increased cravings and energy fluctuations

This is not about failure or a lack of discipline—your body is literally shifting its internal chemistry. Instead of fighting against it, the key is to work with it.

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🔶 Stop Starving Your Body: Nourish It Instead

A common mistake women over 40 make when trying to lose weight is drastically cutting calories. While it may seem like a logical step, starving the body can actually backfire. It slows the metabolism further and disrupts cellular and hormonal functions—making weight loss even harder.

Instead, focus on nourishing your body with nutrient-dense, whole foods, such as:

🔸 Lean proteins (chicken, fish, legumes)

🔸 Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil)

🔸 Fibre-rich vegetables and fruits

🔸 Whole grains (quinoa, oats, brown rice)

🔸 Hydrating fluids like water and herbal teas

At the same time, reduce empty calories from highly processed, sugary, or refined foods. These offer little nutritional value and can contribute to inflammation, cravings, and hormonal imbalances.

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🟩 Smart Exercise for Women Over 40

Exercise is an important factor to healthy weight loss—but the approach may need to evolve. Women over 40 benefit most from a balanced mix of strength, cardio, and restorative movement, such as:

✅ Strength Training

▪️Helps preserve and build lean muscle mass

▪️Increases metabolism

▪️Improves insulin sensitivity and bone density

▪️Aim for strength training 2–3 times per week, targeting major muscle groups.

✅ Low-Impact Cardio

▪️Brisk walking, cycling, and swimming support cardiovascular health without overtaxing the joints.

✅ Mobility & Recovery

▪️Yoga, stretching, and Pilates can reduce stress, improve flexibility, and support nervous system balance.

✅ Prioritize Rest

▪️Recovery is crucial—especially with fluctuating hormones. Over-exercising can lead to increased cortisol (a stress hormone), which promotes fat storage, especially around the belly.

✅ High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

▪️Alternates short bursts of intense effort with periods of rest or lower activity

▪️Boosts cardiovascular fitness and metabolism in less time

▪️Helps burn fat while preserving muscle

⚠️ Note: While HIIT is effective, it's also intense. Start with 1–2 sessions per week, and give your body time to recover—especially if you're new to it or managing hormonal fatigue.

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💭 Final Thoughts

Weight loss during perimenopause and menopause isn’t just about calories in vs. calories out. It’s about supporting a body that’s undergoing a profound transition.

The most sustainable and healthy path includes:

✨ Nourishing with nutrient-dense foods

✨ Reducing processed, nutrient-poor choices

✨ Moving your body in ways that build strength, boost metabolism, and lower stress

✨ Being kind and patient with yourself

You’re not just aiming to lose weight—you’re working toward long-term vitality, energy, and confidence in your 40s and beyond.

If you're struggling to feel like yourself and ready to start your healing journey towards becoming the happiest, healthiest and most vibrant version of yourself, I'd love to help you! 💚🩵

For more info or to book an appointment, visit www.barefootholistichealth.com
Alternatively call or text Nicki 0478 303 376

And if you haven't already head to Barefoot Holistic Health to read more about me and like my page 👍🏼 You can now also find me on Instagram! ❤️

24/07/2025

💚🩵 Thank You! 🩵💚

500 followers! 🎉

I'm genuinely overwhelmed by how quickly Barefoot Holistic Health has grown since opening the clinic in September last year. The support from our beautiful local community has been nothing short of incredible, and I’m so grateful to have walked alongside so many of you on your healing journey.

Your continued support, referrals, and kind recommendations mean the world to me. As a small business, every bit of love and encouragement truly makes a difference.

If you haven’t already, come say hi on Instagram too!
📲 ❤️

I can’t wait to see you in clinic — or on the mat — very soon.
You're all amazing. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. 💚🙏🏼🩵

Barefoot Holistic Health

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