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, and be able to provide a relaxing, peaceful atmosphere for healing. 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 and spaces here in Gordon Victoria.    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