Lauren Apostola

Shiatsu ~ Cupping ~ Gua Sha ~ Moxibustion ~ Tui Na

Lauren is inspired by the traditional wisdom of Eastern cultures, which speak of taking the middle path in all things.

Having navigated chronic illness throughout her early life, including Fibromyalgia, IBS, Fructose Intolerance, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Alopecia, and various musculoskeletal issues, Lauren has a lived experience of chronic pain. She was motivated from a young age to explore alternative therapies to support her healing. She believed wholeheartedly that if she developed these health conditions, she could also reverse them.

Lauren creates a nurturing, and safe treatment space, and through mindful touch and pressure, invites awareness to areas in the body that feel blocked or disconnected. Her treatments are gentle but deep, with a keen sensitivity to chronic pain.

In addition to her work as a therapist, Lauren co-teaches the Zen Shiatsu course at the Australian Shiatsu College (ASC), emphasising the principles of stillness, presence, and connection. For Lauren, Shiatsu is a holistic and embodying experience, and she believes it is through stillness and holding that the magic happens.

Lauren also teaches the Oriental Diet Therapy class at the ASC, where she shares her understanding of food as medicine - a powerful tool in her own healing journey. Lauren can be found creating wholesome meals at local workshops and events. Her food nourishes with its simplicity, colour, and love!

Passionate about building roots in community, and a background in Event Management, Lauren has co-facilitated various Shiatsu events. These include Shiatsu Therapist Retreats, a monthly Shiatsu Community Clinic, and a monthly Shiatsu Yin Yoga class currently offered at Studio Shiatsu.

When not treating at Studio Shiatsu, Lauren takes her Shiatsu services to corporate offices across Melbourne. Whether on a massage table, chair, or futon, she adapts the principles of Shiatsu to fit any setting - ensuring relaxation is always in reach.

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, Ann-Cecil Sterman, 2023

  • Diet Through the Lens of Emotions, Andrew Sterman, 2023

  • Classical Pulse Diagnosis, Ann-Cecil Sterman, 2023

  • Six Forms of Touch, Bill Palmer & Teresa Hadland, 2023

  • Tui Na Massage Short Course, Australian Shiatsu College, 2022

  • Diploma of Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies, Australian Shiatsu College, 2022