Jessica Turner Many cultures traditionally understand the human spirit as a vital force that links to a higher consciousness. Regardless of deity, the belief in a universal energy that governs all life, spans across the board.
When it comes to wellness, however, Western medicine tends to separate the concept of “spirit” from the physical body, while Eastern modalities (such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine) factor it in as a fundamental key to overall health.
In recent years, there’s been extensive study into the connection between the brain (nervous system) and body (immune and endocrine systems). As a result, practitioners from a variety of disciplines are challenging the status quo by taking an holistic approach to wellbeing.
Larry Dorset, author of bestselling book Reinventing Medicine says, “we are about to enter an era of medicine that recognises the spirit as powerful healing tool.”
His sentiment is supported by research that claims prayer may help reduce stress and promote a more positive outlook that impacts our physical will to live.
As aesthetics professionals, the trend toward spiritual healing is something to be aware of. According to Claire McCauley, spa director of Nature’s Energy in Sydney, spiritual healing works by releasing blocked energy.
Nature’s Energy boasts three indulgence-focused day spas attached to lavish bathhouses. From holistic beauty traditional massage to tarot, to crystal healing, their treatment menu includes a range of therapies designed to work heal, relax and rejuvenate.
“Blending energy healing therapies with indulgence treatments is what makes us unique,” says Claire.
“People coming into a day spa are often tired and stressed. To give them the ultimate relaxing experience, we look at both the physical and emotional aspects of the body
“We carry stress in different areas. For example, you could be carrying it in your tummy which may manifest as feeling nauseous or ill.
“In Chinese philosophies such as reflexology, tight shoulders could indicate an emotional issue and visa versa – emotional issues can cause tension or pain in the body.”
Claire tells us how spirit-soothing modalities connect to our emotional state – and (acknowledging a link between mental and overall wellbeing) our physical health.
“When you believe there is something greater than yourself, you have a support mechanism, and you don’t feel like you’re alone in this universe,” she says.
“Handing over to whichever cosmic power you choose, automatically takes the worry off you. When you know that there’s something stronger than you that’s going to be dealing with it, instead of carrying it as anxiety in your body, you can let things go.”
According to Claire, the spiritual healers at Nature’s Energy work their magic by “accessing” energies in the cosmos. They are also gifted at tuning into subtle vibrations of the body (chakras) and their auras. Through their respective modalities, they work to unblock stagnated energy in their clients so they march happily and harmoniously to the beat of the universe.
“We have over 20 different therapists that specialise in using different tools to access healing energies. For example, each tarot reader has a unique technique – they may use oracle cards or psychometry (using their clients’ jewellery).
“Some of our holistic healing practitioners may say “I’m picking up on something with your shoulder” – then they’ll try and work on unblocking it energetically. After that, they might suggest a particular type of massage that works on a physical situation.”
It is logical that clarifying or re-framing a confusing health issue for a client may bring peace of mind so they leave the treatment room feeling calmer and “lighter” – which in turn, could have immeasurable wellness payoffs.
But can practices that soothe the spirit have actual (and immediate) beautification benefits? Claire says they most definitely can.
“Even if a healer or reader doesn’t psychically touch them, their client will always come out with a glow because there’ll be a shift in their energy.”
All three Nature’s Energy retreats boast incredible products. From books and jewellery to teas and tinctures, much of the aromatherapy based candles, oils, body-care and skincare ranges are blended in-house.
“It’s fantastic coming in for a massage but it’s important to have something to take home and continue that healing – a reminder to yourself to take time out for yourself,” says Claire.
“To maximise the feeling of post-treatment tranquility we make sure we have the take-homes on offer so our clients can continue that mindfulness of how important it is to recharge yourself at home.”
Claire’s family took over Nature’s Energy in Glebe (already a renowned relaxation haven) back in 2005, and since expanded by opening the Balmain centre and Newtown and adding more facilities in all three sanctuaries plus a hair-salon in Glebe.
