WELLNESS LEADERS FEELIN’ GOOD

The wellness industry is growing rapidly – from highaltitude fitness classes to hyperbaric therapy chambers and EMS (that’s Electrical Muscle Stimulation) training suits, we take a look at the trailblazers leaving their mark on the wellness industry – it’s never been ‘sexier’ to put you and your health first.

Kath Merlo & Kristy Morris Co-founders, KAILO

Kath Merlo and Kristy Morris set out on their path of wellness after they realised there was a gap in the Australian market for a luxury wellness destination.

“Ultimately, we wanted to create the kind of space that we would both love to be customers of!” they said. “While we both came from different backgrounds prior to opening KAILO – [Kristy in Human Resources and Kath in marketing] – we have been passionate about the industry for some time.”

From the first time they met, the pair bonded over the wellbeing of their children. This led to the realisation they were both interested in helping other people achieve good health and wellness in their lives. Kristy and Kath opened KAILO in 2018 on James Street in the luxurious Calile Hotel. KAILO has now expanded to include luxury wellness products and events, positioning the centre as Australia’s leading elevated luxury wellness brand. In fact, KAILO has been awarded top luxury medispa in Australia for the past three years.

Most recently, the pair introduced a nutrition range, made up of collagen sachets targeted at gut, sleep, and skin health. They’re also set to launch a botanical skincare range, where they worked with a leading botanist, later this year.

“We hope that every experience our guests have with KAILO is a memorable one – whether it’s at our flagship medispa, an online purchase, or attending one of our events.”

“We have an incredibly committed team who are passionate about delivering exceptional [customer] service, which has created a community of loyal followers.”

Chris Miller Founder, LeanSuits Fitness

Chris Miller has worn many hats – health coach, personal trainer, Chinese medicine doctor, massage therapist, soft tissue specialist, sports nutritionist, stay-at-home dad, and now founder of one Brisbane’s coolest new fitness studios, a.k.a LeanSuits Fitness.

LeanSuits Fitness, which will be celebrating its first birthday next month, is changing the way we traditionally work out with EMS (that’s Electrical Muscle Stimulation) training.

“Put simply, it’s a full-body workout using the wireless LeanSuits technology to stimulate muscle fibres while you exercise, causing muscle tissues to work harder and more effectively,” Chris explains. “Our LeanSuits activate 90 per cent of your muscle fibres, compared with just 30 per cent during old-fashioned training.”

That means you can get a complete, fullbody workout in just 20 minutes (yep, no more slaving away at the gym for hours!). It’s also low impact, meaning it’s gentle on the joints, which is a great option for those who have current or past injuries.

Chris, who has 20-plus years of coaching experience, knows all too well what it’s like to experience a health setback – he has had three knee reconstructions and overcame severe neurological conditions following a sinus tumour. Long story short, LeanSuits has helped Chris, who’s now 40, become the leanest and fitness he’s ever been in a fraction of the time, and now he’s on a mission to help others. Chris wants nothing more than to help other people live their best lives, whether that’s kicking a footy with their kids, or reaching new fitness goals.

Samara Searle Company Director, Beauty Boost Aesthetic Clinic

Samara Searle has always had a passion for aesthetic medicine and all things beauty, however, before she made the move to the cosmetic world, she was working as an intensive care nurse for six years and with renowned plastic surgeons for three years.

“Nursing is a degree that can give you so many options, but aesthetic medicine has always been my passion,” she says. “The idea for Beauty Boost started back in 2018 when it was a side hustle, while I was working in intensive care.”

Years later, Samara, who has six years’ experience as an advanced cosmetic injector and trainer, decided to turn her side hustle into a full-blown business. Beauty Boost Aesthetic Clinic is now regarded as one of Brisbane’s premier aesthetic medicine clinics, offering a wide range of treatments, from anti-wrinkle, dermal fillers, PRP, and the new bio skin remodelling injections, to name a few.

While Samara’s love for the industry inspired her to open the clinic, her passion for enhancing natural beauty is what drove her company’s ethos.

“I wanted to break the stigma around cosmetic treatments by bringing natural beauty back to life,” she says. “We’re all unique in our own way, we should enhance what we already have.”

Samara says her favourite treatment to perform on clients is tear-trough filler – which is filler injected under the eyes to help with dark circles and hollowing. “This was always my biggest insecurity growing up and I’ve focused on honing my skills in this area.”

As for her two biggest anti-ageing tips –sunscreen and anti-wrinkle treatments of course!

Dr Olwen Bishop Founder, Zen Acupuncture

Dr Olwen Bishop BHSc (Acupuncture), owner of Zen Acupuncture in Ashgrove, may have fallen into acupuncture later in life (she originally studied interior design), but she’s always had a keen interest in the practice. Olwen, who grew up in Ireland, was fortunate enough to live next door to an acupuncturist.

“It fascinated me that something so simple like a few small needles could have such a huge effect,” she says. “When I was pregnant with my first child, I had carpal tunnel syndrome which was extremely painful. Nothing worked to relieve my pain, but my husband suggested acupuncture… within two sessions it was gone. From that day I knew I had to learn more about acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.”

And that’s exactly what she did. Olwen, who’s been living in Brisbane for 18 years, enrolled in a four-year Bachelor of Health Science degree. After she received her degree, she advanced her studies in orthopaedic acupuncture under the guidance of world-renowned Orthopaedic Acupuncturist Richard Hazel, who is based in New York. This changed Olwen’s way of practicing with a greater focus on chronic pain and injuries. Olwen now runs Zen Acupuncture – which is derived from the Chinese and Sanskrit words for meditation – where she practices in traditional Chinese medicine, dietary therapy, cupping, electro-acupuncture, orthopaedic acupuncture (a form of acupuncture that focusses on treating musculoskeletal pain), as well as traditional acupuncture.

“Zen Acupuncture is a general practice, but my interests lie in chronic pain and injury recovery. Mental health, emotional support, and menstrual disharmony is secondary to this,” she says. “I want to give back to my community and make acupuncture accessible to everyone.”

Kirsty

Wirth

Founder, Kultured Wellness

They say true empowerment begins with education, which certainly resonates with Kirsty Wirth, founder of Kultured Wellness. So much so, that in 2015 she decided to harness her passion for learning and transform it into a thriving business.

On top of their range of probiotic culture starters and gut health products, Kirsty, along with her brilliant team, are dedicated to supporting people’s gut and brain health in a holistic sense.

“We are a curious and passionate bunch! We live and breathe sharing the importance of rocking great gut and brain health,” she says.

Healing is at the core of Kultured Wellness, which is run solely online, particularly on a personal level for Kirsty, who attributes its inception to the need to troubleshoot and problem solve to save her son’s health and life.

So, why the strong focus on gut health? “It really is the seat of either wellness or disease for us. It can be our friend or foe,” she says. “Without an optimally functioning gut we can’t digest nutrients, make key components for our immune system, and [in many cases] our mental health declines. We’re also more prone to disease and autoimmune conditions.”

Thankfully, there are a few actionable steps to support your gut microbiome. “We can start simply by getting our hands in the dirt and surrounding ourselves with soil microbes and organisms, and eating fermented foods on a daily basis,” Kirsty explains. “That, and being part of a connected community that supports health and change!”

KULTURED WELLNESS KULTEREDWELLNESS.COM @KULTUREDWELLNESS

Mathew Baker Founder, Hyperbaric O2 Health

Thanks to its many health benefits, hyperbaric chamber therapy is quickly becoming more and more popular in the health and wellness industry, and for good reason. Mathew Baker, who is a highly trained and experienced musculoskeletal therapist, remedial therapist, and body psychotherapist, and now founder of Hyperbaric O2 Health, has seen his fair share of illnesses and approaches to healing throughout his 20- plus years in the industry.

However, since introducing hyperbaric hydroxy therapy into his clinic five years ago, he has seen improvements almost instantaneously. “This is a very unique therapy that works with your body on a different level to heal,” Matt says.

For those of you who don’t know, hyperbaric hydroxy therapy is where you breathe in a combination of oxygen and hydrogen in a pressurised environment, like a chamber. Hydrogen targets the toxins in your body, while oxygen speeds up the healing process – it’s this unique combination that helps the overall recovery process. However, Matt notes, outcomes are different in everybody.

And this isn’t the only type of health services Matt and his team provide, others include musculoskeletal therapy, body psychotherapy, as well as remedial massage, energy healing, pain management, and counselling. Matt, who has treated many high-profile teams, such as the Brisbane Broncos and Socceroo’s football team, over the years is passionate about supporting clients on their rehabilitation journey.

As for the most rewarding part of his job?

Matt says it’s seeing his patients recover from injury or chronic pain through treatment and getting their lives back on track.

Ruth Limkin CEO, The Banyans Healthcare

Combining her passion for helping people to grow and thrive with her background in community advocacy, Ruth Limkin, CEO, The Banyans Healthcare, is steadfast on removing the barriers to accessing great healthcare.

“People’s health and wellbeing is a foundational aspect of their ability to discover a fullness and richness to life,” she says. “I have always been passionate about giving people the information, tools, and support to make great decisions and The Banyans Healthcare is a natural extension of this.”

Redefining the delivery of private health treatment for mental health conditions and substance dependency across Australia and internationally is at the core of The Banyans Healthcare. With a dedication to providing the very best in residential rehabilitation, day programs, and outpatient care, the wonderful team at The Banyans delivers a clinically-rich treatment model, all focused on supporting the person’s wellbeing.

While the barriers to great healthcare have certainly begun to shift in the seven years since The Banyans Healthcare was founded, there’s still a lot of groundwork to do.

“Some of the ways I want to help remove barriers are to speak, write, and communicate about wellbeing, addiction, mental health, and the things we can do to optimise our health and performance in life, relationships, and work,” she says. “It’s so important that we normalise talking about this!”

With this in mind, Ruth would like to remind us to be intentional and make time for ourselves, even if the first step is simply doing a health and wellbeing check-up.

Karen Horne Founder,

Air Locker Training Newstead

Humble yet backed with bravado, founder of Air Locker Training Newstead, Karen Horne knows the importance of running a gym where everyone who enters feels welcomed.

Located in Gasworks Plaza, Air Locker is setting a new standard in the fitness industry with simulated altitude training to help hundreds take a leap into improving their health. The point of difference? It’s nothing like you’ve experienced before – the space simulates high altitude conditions which delivers up to 30 per cent better results compared to training at sea level.

Although only recently opening its doors in September 2022, the wealth of experience from the team is anything but new. “Our team of coaches have 15 years’ experience between them, ranging from professional sports, strength conditioning and mobility, to mindset and mentoring,” Karen says.

It’s a group fitness studio with no ego! Classes change every 24 hours, so you don’t have to worry about repeating the same sessions over and over again. And you can rest assured that your trainer is driven by results and a firm believer in the correct form.

No matter your age or ability, Air Locker is one big happy family, ready to welcome new members! Intrigued to learn more? Head to their website.

Dr Ian Chinsee (MBBS FACCS)

Founder, Inígo Cosmetic

With a background in the medical industry and more specifically cosmetic surgery, Dr Ian Chinsee is the one to see when it comes to breast surgery, tightened tummies, defined glutes, and fresh faces.

With knowledge and skills in the cosmetic field, Dr Chinsee has devoted his career to the aim of becoming the best of the best. It was in 2002 that he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in California to then complete his medical degree at the University of Queensland. On top of this, Dr Chinsee has undertaken advanced surgical training with the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine, where he holds a Fellowship. Just when you thought you couldn’t get any more qualified, Dr Chinsee is also a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.

Following years of studying and experience, both internationally and nationally, it was the natural next step that he opened Inígo Cosmetic in 2020. “I am passionate about creating a luxurious environment which offers a range of aesthetic treatments,” he says.

Aptly situated in the heart of James Street, Inígo Cosmetic is now one of Brisbane’s premier cosmetic clinics. The clinic provides surgical and non-surgical procedures, from Dr Chinsee’s focus on breast surgery to non-surgical face-lifts, skin needling, body contouring, and injectables. The best part? The list doesn’t end there. Head to their website to learn more.

39 JAMES

FORTITUDE VALLEY P 1300 884 577 INIGOCOSMETIC.COM.AU

Dr Nicholas Kemp Founder, The Leg Vein Doctor

When it comes to vein health, Dr Nicholas Kemp knows everything there is to know about it –from treatment options to do’s and don’ts for maintaining healthy veins.

Dr Kemp heads up his own clinic, The Leg Vein Doctor, in Auchenflower, where he sees patients from all over the country (he also runs a monthly satellite clinic in Toowoomba). The clinic offers a comprehensive range of modern and non-invasive treatments for varicose veins.

“It’s small but sanctuary-like,” he says. “Not only is it comfortable, but it’s very private as we just see one patient at a time. It’s exactly what I had in mind when I wanted to create The Leg Vein Doctor – offering the best practice treatment in a personalised way.”

So, how does one fall into the field of phlebology? Dr Kemp, who has worked all over the world as a doctor, says he became fascinated by phlebology while looking at treatment options for himself. He became so intrigued that he decided to pursue specialised training in the field, and he hasn’t looked back since.

“I have patients call me up to say they have just come back from the coast and worn a pair of shorts for the first time,” he says. “You can’t beat that feeling, it’s very rewarding.”

Dr Kemp’s patients vary from 18 to 81 and come from all walks of life. While he treats mainly women, 40 per cent of his clientele are also men.

“All the procedures we offer at our clinic are walk in/walk out.”

THE LEG VEIN DOCTOR

465 MILTON RD, AUCHENFLOWER P 3720 9912 THELEGVEINDOCTOR.COM

Cherry Wills

CEO, Metabolic Balance ANZ

The popular saying, “you are what you eat” may be accurate after all. Cherry Wills, who heads up the Australian and New Zealand branch of global organisation Metabolic Balance, is incredibly passionate about helping people fuel their bodies with the right foods.

For those who don’t know, Metabolic Balance (which started in Germany 25-plus years ago) is an evidence-based, food-based plan that naturally restores overall balance to the body – put simply, a personalised nutrition plan that identifies the right food to eat for your body!

As a trained clinical nutritionist, Cherry sees people day in day out who are struggling with debilitating illnesses and chronic conditions with no idea where to turn.

“Finding foods that match you can have an enormous difference,” she says. “I know if I hadn’t known ‘my foods’, my health would be completely different today. (I turn 50 this September and I know my health is completely different to most soon-to-be 50-year-olds!).”

“People need an analysis to find their personal foods and this is why I’m so passionate about Metabolic Balance. We have over 190 certified practitioners offering Metabolic Balance now nationwide and my big aim is to raise awareness of the program so people know there is a solution when they need it.”

Cherry, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Therapy together with a PhD in Chemistry, divides her time between supporting clients with Metabolic Balance in her private practice in Cleveland and training and mentoring fellow practitioners in the Metabolic Balance method across Australia and New Zealand. As for her favourite part? Hearing about client transformations following their plans.

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