Gabrielle Cheyney – Naturopathic Acupuncturist and Naturopath

 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself on a personal level?

I am someone who has always been interested in holistic treatments and health as my mother was an aromatherapist and reflexologist and I often got to be her guinea pig growing up. I love to learn and it is not unusual to see my head in a new book or looking up something new. I love beauty treatments and a holistic facial is one my favourite treatments to give.

My absolute favourite thing to do is also making people aromatherapy blends or flower essence blends – it kind of reminds me of potion making which I used to pretend I was doing as a child. Some things never change (except I know what I am doing now!) Those who know me also know I am really into Astrology, I always like to know someone’s big three (sun, moon and rising) as well as their mars or venus placements.

What led you to the Naturopathic Health industry? 

Like many people in the industry, my own health issues took me down this long voyage of discovery. After being diagnosed with Graves’ disease quite suddenly at the age of 26 years old, I will never forget my Endocrinologist asking me what I did for a living (fundraising) and whether I enjoyed it and if it was stressful. My answers were of course, ‘no I do not enjoy it’ and ‘yes it is stressful!’ We talk a lot about allopathic versus naturopathic health at college but I credit my allopathic Doctor back then for pushing me to change and do something different. She knew that stress would not allow my health to improve and really put an emphasis on it. It was then that I decided to make the move into the beauty and spa world, training later on as an Aromatherapist and Reflexologist.

At some point, I found myself exhausted and burnt out (massaging is hard work) and I credit yet another person who pushed me further in my journey. The spa manager where I was working could see something was not quite right (I was too tired and not quite recovered from the Graves) and gave me the contact of her Acupuncturist, Herbalist and Nutritionist friend! At this point, I was a few years in remission but I wanted to stay that way. And then, that brings me to the third person who inspired me to make the final leap — my Acupuncturist. I remember thinking that; “Acupuncture is so amazing and wouldn’t it be great to know how to do it”. I went to a college to find out more and signed up on the day. I have never looked back and learned so much!

To this day, I am medication free, I didn’t have a thyroidectomy and don’t even have the thyroid antibodies for Graves anymore (much to all the Doctors surprise)! A combination of Acupuncture, Herbs and Homeopathy over the years has given me so much and now it is my turn to do the same for others.

What does your practice entail?

I want to bring together everything I have learned. All the holistic therapies with a focus on Acupuncture and Naturopathy. I love being able to create bespoke treatments, which is why I have created a few signature treatments that combine different elements of touch therapy, energy healing and acupuncture. I have also trained in Cosmetic Acupuncture and love to do more natural and holistic facials as I move away from the beauty industry. My focus now, is more on helping people achieve wellness and balance of mind, body and soul.

What inspires you?

I am always inspired by people all over the world who are working to help people feel better in today’s world. Moving away from a reactionary point of treating and caring for peoples health towards more prevention is key. I follow Acupuncturists and Naturopaths who are making big changes in peoples’ health and having great success. That’s what keeps me inspired.

Where do you see yourself professionally in 5 or 10 years?

I would love to work alongside other Naturopathic practitioners such as a Herbalist, Homeopath and Nutritional Therapist. My vision would be to open a clinic that encompasses all these modalities with perhaps an Osteopath and a Functional Dr on site to direct people to find the best possible version of their health.

How did you find your “niche?”

I am still quite early on in my career but I would say my niche would be on ‘Wellness’ as per my brand. It is not just about tackling health problems, it is ok for clients to just come in for a treatment to ‘reset’ and ‘relax’. There does not have to be a reason and because of my beauty and holistic therapy background – I am also keenly aware that people still like to focus on aesthetics. It is all linked after all.

What are your qualifications?

  • CNM Diploma with Distinction as an Acupuncturist
  • CNM Diploma as a Naturopath
  • AcuRegen Cosmetic Facial Acupuncture – The Signature Advanced Course
  • CIDESCO Beauty and Spa Diploma
  • VTCT/ITEC diplomas in Aromatherapy and Reflexology
  •  VTCT diploma in Indian Head Massage
  • Pregnancy and Labour Massage
  • Access Bars

I have lived and worked in France as well as taught English.

In another life I also obtained a BSc in International Relations with Politics and a MA in African Studies.

What is one piece of advice you would have for someone who is new to the natural health industry? 

It is a lot of hard work, but it pays off because being able to help people with their health is one of the best things in the world. Have good intentions above all else and the rest will follow.

Can you tell us about how your ANP membership has benefited you?

Being part of the ANP is great. I feel supported and know I have somewhere to go to for up to date information, CPD and of course a community of liked minded Naturopathic practitioners.

To find out more about Gabrielle and how she works, you can head over to her website: WellnessbyGabrielle