Sylvia Manovski

Naturopath, Herbalist, Yoga instructor, Massage therapist, Reiki master

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Natural health has always been an interest of mine – even as a child, I read books on home remedies, breathing techniques, fitness and nutrition, mainly to try and help with the large number of health issues I had, and also because reading helped fill the large amount of time I had off school due to them.  Up until I was about 11 years old, I suffered from allergies (foods, grass, pets, dust, penicillin), eczema, asthma and yearly bouts of pneumonia and pleurisy.   I remember the row of (brightly coloured) medicines on the kitchen bench that I would dread taking.  Starting swimming was a huge benefit, and my respiratory problems resolved.  Competitive sport at national level in my early 20’s continued my interest in health, especially in nutrition.

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At high school my favourite subjects were biology and art.  After a last minute change from enrolling in Architecture, I began studying science (Biotechnology) at RMIT.  This lead to a Master’s degree and teaching undergraduate students Microbiology, Immunology and Biological Process Engineering.  After working as a research scientist (microbiologist / geneticist), I realised that I enjoyed interacting with people much more than working in a laboratory……so moved into the Pharmaceutical industry, with roles in sales, marketing and quality control.

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Years later, on a holiday visiting family in Europe, I was able to go out picking wild herbs in the countryside to make herbal teas and my interest in natural medicine was re-ignited.   I returned home and began studying Naturopathy, Herbal medicine and Massage.  And I loved it!  I opened my business ‘Natural Family Care’ initially from home, then a year later from ‘The Centre for mind, body & spirit’.   Working from The Centre introduced me to therapies such as Reiki, Yoga and Meditation, which over the years I have studied and now use to provide a complete approach to wellness; physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, incorporating natural methods with a background of scientific knowledge, and belief in working alongside mainstream medicine if needed to provide the best quality healthcare available. While many may think it a huge leap from science to naturopathy, I utilise my research skills with every patient, investigating their symptoms and body processes, looking for the underlying causes of their health issues, and keep up-to-date with the latest scientific research and clinical studies on natural medicines.

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With approximately 30 years in the health industry, I feel extremely lucky to be able to share my passion for natural health with others.   After many fulfilling years as The Centre for mind, body & spirit, I'm now embarking on a new journey as Sylvan Rise Retreats, dedicating more time, focus and energy on enhancing retreat services.    While my journey may seem varied, it has allowed me to gather a diverse group of skills which I use every day, not only in my work, but in all aspects of my life.  

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Wishing you health and happiness,

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Sylvia