Lauren Apostola
Shiatsu ~ Cupping ~ Gua Sha ~ Moxibustion ~ Tui Na
Hi, I’m Lauren, a Shiatsu therapist, trainer, and passionate advocate for holistic wellbeing.
I am inspired by the traditional wisdom of Eastern cultures, which emphasise taking the middle path in all things.
Having experienced chronic illness, including Fibromyalgia, throughout my early life, I have a deep and personal understanding of living with chronic pain. I have been curious from a young age, exploring alternative therapies and believing that if I could develop these conditions, I could also heal from them.
My treatments are gentle yet deep, with a sensitivity to chronic pain. I create a nurturing and safe treatment space and through mindful pressure and touch, invite awareness to the body.
I co-teach the Zen Shiatsu course at the Australian Shiatsu College (ASC), where I emphasise the principles of stillness, presence, and connection. For me, Shiatsu is a holistic and embodied experience and I believe it is through stillness and holding that the magic happens. I also teach the Oriental Diet Therapy class, sharing my understanding of food as medicine, a powerful tool in my own healing journey. I am often found creating wholesome meals at local workshops and events, where the food nourishes with its simplicity, colour, and love.
Passionate about building community and with a background in event management, I have co-facilitated various Shiatsu events, including Shiatsu Therapist Retreats, a monthly Shiatsu Community Clinic, and a monthly Shiatsu Yin Yoga class currently offered at Studio Shiatsu.
When I’m not treating at Studio Shiatsu, I bring my Shiatsu services to corporate offices across Melbourne. Whether on a massage table, chair, or futon, I adapt the principles of Shiatsu to fit any setting, ensuring relaxation is always within reach.
Shiatsu has become more than a healing practice for me.
It is a way of life, one that embraces balance, connection, and deep listening to the body.
Training & Certification
Yin Yoga and Shiatsu Yin Teacher Training, Machiya, 2024
STAA Mentoring (Mentee), Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia, 2024
Practical Application of the Eight Extraordinary Channels Workshop, Ann-Cecil Sterman, 2023
Diet Through the Lens of Emotions Workshop, Andrew Sterman, 2023
Classical Pulse Diagnosis Workshop, Ann-Cecil Sterman, 2023
Six Forms of Touch Workshop, Bill Palmer & Teresa Hadland, 2023
Tui Na Massage Short Course, Australian Shiatsu College, 2022
Diploma of Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies, Australian Shiatsu College, 2022