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Melanie Armstrong

 
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Naturopath and Massage Therapist




CONTACT INFORMATION  
   
AddressThe Herb Centre
223 Kilmore Street
Christchurch
South Island 8011
Phone
Mobile
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About Myself

I began my studies at Nature Care College in Sydney before moving back to New Zealand 9 years ago where I completed my Diploma of Naturopathy through the Naturopathic College of NZ. In that time I have worked as a massage therapist and also work in a busy health clinic and herbal dispensary providing advice and natural medicines for a wide range of health issues. Over this time I have also completed postgraduate studies in Women’s Health including conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Endometriosis and other common hormonal imbalances affecting women. Outside of my Naturopathic clinic I am a busy mum with three children and have always had a long standing passion for natural therapies. I have seen firsthand how effective Naturopathic medicine can be for the whole family for a wide range of conditions. I have dealt with allergies and food intolerances and understand how hard this can be but with perseverance and the right advice results can be quite dramatic.

Naturopathy and what it has to offer....

A qualified Naturopath will be trained in a number of modalities which are used to help guide you towards better health. The modalities I love to use include nutrition and using food as medicine, vitamin and mineral supplementation, herbal medicine, lifestyle recommendations and massage therapy. Everybody can benefit from Naturopathy in some way from the very young to the elderly by;
  • Identifying subtle imbalances in the body before disease develops.
  • Providing answers or results in cases where orthodox medicine has proven unsatisfactory.
  • Offering preventative health care options.
  • Using herbal medicine while being natural is still effective with few unpleasant side effects often experienced with pharmaceutical medicines.
Our health and vitality is so dependent on the health of your digestive system and what you choose to eat on a daily basis. For example, the types of carbohydrates and fats you choose to eat have a huge impact on hormonal balance, inflammation and pain, body weight and many other health conditions. Recognising and correcting nutritional deficiencies and identifying possible food intolerances/allergies are also a real priority. It is amazing what health issues can fall away once digestive issues and diet is rectified. Other health issues than may benefit from Naturopathic treatment include chronic skin conditions, low immunity, low energy, pre conception care and optimising fertility, pregnancy, stress management, supporting healthy mood, healthy aging, hormonal issues and weight loss.

What can you expect when you see a Naturopath...

Your initial consultation can take between 60 and 90 minutes and aims to identify your current health issues and concerns, gather information on past health history, family health history and ascertain what your current health goals are. Physical examinations include a quick assessment of your nails and tongue which can provide additional information regarding possible nutritional deficiencies and the health of the digestive system. A blood pressure reading may also be taken and in some cases further testing is warranted which may include blood tests, urine testing and in some instances a referral to your GP may be necessary. Once all information has been gathered a treatment plan can be created which takes into account your personal situation, current medications (if any) and your current health goals. Naturopathic treatment can work well alongside orthodox medicine in many cases with nutritional supplements and herbs often helping to reduce side effects. Follow up appointments are always necessary to monitor how your treatment is progressing and to make any necessary changes. Follow up appointments are normally 30 minutes.

The wonderful benefits of Massage Therapy...

There is nothing better than a good relaxation or therapeutic massage to help release muscular tension, relax frazzled nerves and reduce the aches and pains you may now accept as part of your everyday life. Why does massage therapy make you feel so much better? On a physical level massaging the muscles helps to releases muscle adhesions (or knots) allowing increased circulation and oxygenation to the area being worked. The nervous system also benefits greatly, with stress levels melting away leaving you feeling relaxed, calm and peaceful (even if it is only temporary). Regular massage is also very beneficial for;
  • neck and shoulder pain,
  • recovery after physical training and sporting events,
  • chronic back pain,
  • stress and insomnia
  • General relaxation and time out for you!
I enjoy working personally with each individual to help guide them towards reaching their health goals. It may not always be an easy journey and it does take some commitment and willingness to make changes after all ‘nothing changes if nothing changes’ however the reward is always worth it.

If you are ready to make some positive changes then please call and make an appointment with Mel at The Herb Centre, 03 3653011 or alternatively enquire via email and I will respond as soon as possible, thank you.




Service Categories
Herbalists, Natural Fertility Management, Naturopaths, Nutrition, Remedial Massage, Swedish Relaxation Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Weight Loss, Womens Health

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