 Recently, I treated a client who came in with purplish and reddish hands and feet. It caught both our attention. As a remedial massage therapist, I don’t just look at where the pain is. I look at the bigger picture — the body, lifestyle, habits and what might be contributing to the issue. During the treatment, I massaged her tummy using our remedial hot stones. Then something surprised us both. The colour of her hands and feet changed back towards their normal skin tone. She was amazed. So was I. It reminded me of something I always believe in: Remedial massage is more than muscles and skin. Is “No Pain, No Gain” Always True? Some people believe that remedial massage must be painful to be effective. The deeper the pressure, the better the result. While deeper techniques may be useful for certain clients and conditions, remedial massage is not about causing pain for the sake of pain. Every body is different. Some clients may benefit from deep tissue techniques. Others may respond better to gentle, targeted work, hot stones, myofascial techniques or a combination of approaches. The key is understanding what your body needs. Looking Beyond the PainDuring our consultation, my client mentioned that she regularly drank cold drinks. We discussed her daily habits and how temperature, circulation and overall wellbeing might relate to what she was experiencing. What we can do is pay attention, ask questions and look at the bigger picture. Because sometimes, the area where you feel discomfort is not the only thing worth exploring. Your Body Is Connected At The Herbal Girl, I believe a treatment should be more than simply working on a tight muscle. It is about understanding the individual. ✨ Your lifestyle ✨ Your daily habits ✨ Your stress levels ✨ Your posture and movement ✨ Your comfort and treatment needs ✨ The possible contributing factors behind your symptoms My approach combines remedial massage techniques with a holistic understanding of the body. Depending on your needs, treatment may include remedial massage, hot stones, aromatherapy, herbal-inspired rituals and tissue salt therapy. The goal is to create a treatment that is tailored to you — not just to the area that hurts. Prevention Cures. Remedies Repair.Your body deserves more than a one-size-fits-all approach. It deserves attention, understanding and care. Whether you are experiencing muscle tightness, stress, discomfort or simply want to give your body some time to reset, let’s explore what your body may be telling you. Ready to take the next step in your wellness journey? Discover more healing stories, wellness insights and natural self-care ideas on our blog. 👉 Click here to book your appointment with The Herbal Girl Please note: Massage is complementary care and does not diagnose or treat underlying medical conditions. If you experience unexplained purple or red hands or feet, persistent colour changes, pain, numbness or other concerning symptoms, seek medical advice. Massage should not replace assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. The Herbal Girl — Feel Lighter. Move Better. Feel More Like You. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/Natural Therapist
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I Thought Remedial Massage Was Only About Muscles — So Why Did I Feel Nauseous and Dizzy Afterwards?8/20/2026  “I thought remedial massage was only working on my muscles. Why did I feel nauseous and dizzy for a couple of days afterwards?”
This is a question I hear from time to time, and it is worth understanding what can happen after a deeper or more intensive massage treatment. Many people think remedial massage simply means working on tight or sore muscles. While muscles are certainly an important part of the treatment, massage can also affect the nervous system, blood flow and the way your body responds to changes in pressure and stimulation. That is why some people may feel different after a treatment — sometimes relaxed and sleepy, and occasionally a little light-headed, nauseous or unwell. Why might you feel dizzy or nauseous after massage? There isn't one single explanation. Some people may experience temporary light-headedness when getting up after lying down for a period of time. Others may have a response to deep pressure, heat, pain, anxiety or changes in their nervous system. Factors such as dehydration, not eating enough, low blood pressure, fatigue or having an intense treatment may also contribute. This can be more noticeable for some people receiving specialised treatments, such as lymphatic drainage, or following certain cancer treatments. Everyone responds differently to massage, so if you experience dizziness or nausea, listen to your body and give yourself time to rest and recover. If the symptoms continue or feel unusual for you, it’s always best to seek medical advice. How can you look after yourself after a massage? Here are some simple ways to make your post-treatment period more comfortable: 💧 1. Stay hydrated Drink water before and after your treatment, particularly if you have not been drinking enough during the day. If you enjoy it, coconut water can also be an option for hydration. 🍽️ 2. Don't have a very heavy meal immediately afterwards A light, balanced meal may feel more comfortable than a large, heavy meal straight after treatment. And importantly, don't arrive at your appointment completely empty or dehydrated if you know you tend to feel light-headed. 🚶 3. Take it easy for a while Give your body some time to settle after a treatment. You don't necessarily need to spend the whole day resting, but avoiding intense exercise immediately afterwards may be sensible, particularly after a deeper treatment. 🔥 4. Be careful with additional heat If you've had an intensive massage, consider avoiding a sauna or very hot bath immediately afterwards, especially if you already feel light-headed. Heat can make some people feel more dizzy. 🛏️ 5. Get up slowly After lying down during a massage, take your time getting up. Sit for a moment before standing and let your body adjust. Mild, short-lived tiredness or light-headedness can happen after massage, but persistent, severe or unusual symptoms shouldn't simply be dismissed as part of the treatment. If you experience significant dizziness, nausea, fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe headache, weakness, or symptoms that persist or worsen, seek appropriate medical advice promptly. Your massage therapist should also know how you felt after your previous treatment. This information can help them adjust the pressure, positioning, duration and approach for your next appointment. Massage is not simply about “working harder” A good remedial massage isn't about how much pressure you can tolerate. It's about understanding the person on the table, adapting the treatment and paying attention to how the body responds. Your body is giving you feedback — and that feedback matters. This article is for general education and does not replace medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing or concerning symptoms, please speak with your doctor or another qualified health professional. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/Natural Therapist References:
 When people hear hot stone massage, they often imagine smooth stones collected from a beautiful beach or riverbank, warmed up and placed on the body. But can you actually pick up a stone from the beach and use it for a professional hot stone massage? Generally, no. Not every stone is suitable for massage, particularly when the stone is going to be heated to a high temperature and placed directly against someone's skin. Why can't I just use a beach stone? Professional massage stones are selected for their density, smoothness, heat retention and suitability for heating. They also need to be properly cleaned and prepared before being used in a treatment. Massage stones are generally lapidary-finished or professionally polished, giving them a smooth surface without sharp edges or rough areas that could irritate or damage the skin. The type of stone also matters. Some stones retain heat much better than others, allowing the therapist to use heat consistently throughout the treatment. Some commonly used stones include:
Will hot stones burn the client? A properly performed hot stone treatment should not burn the client. However, heat safety is extremely important. The stones used in a professional treatment are heated in a purpose-designed stone heater, and the therapist must check the temperature before placing them on the client's body. A stone may be heated to approximately 60–70°C in the heater, but that does not mean it should be placed directly onto the client's skin at that temperature. The therapist handles and tests the stone first, and the stone's temperature is assessed before application. A therapist may also use the edge or a small area of the stone first to assess how the client's skin responds before using the full surface. This is particularly important because people have different sensitivities to heat. Some clients may experience temporary redness or a heat-related skin reaction. If there is discomfort, excessive redness or a burning sensation, the stone should be removed immediately and the area cooled appropriately. Hot stone massage should always be performed by a properly trained therapist who understands temperature control, skin sensitivity and contraindications. Did you know that the shape of the stone matters? One of the things I find fascinating about hot stone massage is that stones aren't simply "one size fits all". Different shapes and sizes can be useful for different areas of the body and different massage techniques.
Hot stone massage isn't just about relaxation Hot stone massage is often associated with luxury spas and deep relaxation — and yes, the warmth can certainly make a massage feel wonderfully soothing. But when used appropriately, heat can also complement remedial massage techniques. The warmth may help muscles feel more relaxed and can make it easier for a therapist to work through areas of muscular tension. The smooth surface of the stone can also provide a different type of pressure and friction compared with hands alone. This is why I enjoy incorporating hot stones into remedial treatments rather than viewing them simply as a relaxation add-on. But hot stone massage isn't suitable for everyone Hot stone massage is not appropriate for every client or every condition. A proper consultation is important before treatment. Particular caution or avoidance may be required for people with certain medical conditions, impaired sensation or circulation, acute illness, skin conditions, or an inability to safely perceive heat. For example, people with diabetes, significant varicose veins, certain vascular or neurological conditions, active cancer treatment, acute illness, or heat-sensitive skin may require medical advice or may not be suitable for hot stone treatment. This is why a qualified therapist should assess the client before using heated stones rather than assuming that hot stone massage is safe for everyone. The beauty of combining heat with remedial massageFor me, the most interesting part of hot stone massage is the combination of heat, movement, pressure and technique. The stones aren't simply placed on the body and left there. They can become another tool in the therapist's hands — allowing different shapes, surfaces and temperatures to be used for different areas of the body. When combined thoughtfully with remedial massage techniques, hot stones can create a treatment that feels both therapeutic and deeply relaxing. And that's why choosing the right stones matters. A beautiful beach stone might look perfect — but professional massage stones are selected and prepared for a reason. The right stone, the right temperature and the right technique can make all the difference. Experience Remedial Hot Stone Massage with Lomi Lomi
At The Herbal Girl, I combine remedial massage techniques with the warmth of hot stones and flowing Lomi Lomi-inspired movements to create a treatment that works with both the body and the nervous system. The 90-minute Remedial Hot Stones with Lomi Lomi treatment is available exclusively at my Terrigal clinic. If you'd like to experience how hot stones can become part of a remedial treatment rather than simply a spa experience, you can book an appointment here.  For thousands of years, heat and stone therapy have been used by different cultures to ease pain, improve circulation, and promote wellbeing. Today, remedial hot stone massage combines these ancient traditions with modern remedial massage techniques to create a treatment that is both deeply therapeutic and incredibly relaxing.
A Brief History of Hot Stone Massage The use of heated stones as part of traditional healing practices can be traced back thousands of years across different cultures. Ancient Indian Ayurvedic traditions, Chinese medicine practices using heated stones, and Hawaiian healing traditions involving lava rocks have all influenced the development of modern hot stone massage techniques. What Is Remedial Hot Stone Massage? Unlike a spa-style hot stone massage that focuses primarily on relaxation, remedial hot stone massage is designed to treat muscular dysfunction and support the body's natural healing processes. The warmth from the stones penetrates deep into muscles and connective tissue, allowing tight muscles to soften more quickly. This enables the therapist to work effectively while using less pressure, making treatment more comfortable for clients experiencing chronic tension or pain. The heat also encourages local blood circulation, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout the body while supporting normal tissue function. How Does It Support Lymphatic Drainage? Healthy circulation plays an important role in supporting the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system relies on muscle contractions, breathing, and body movement to transport lymphatic fluid throughout the body. When circulation is sluggish, some people may experience symptoms such as:
Modern lifestyles also play a role. Diets high in processed foods often contain excess sodium, which can contribute to water retention in some people. Combined with inadequate hydration and long periods of sitting, this may leave the body feeling heavy, stiff, and sluggish. As part of a personalised remedial massage treatment, the warmth from hot stones may help encourage local circulation, relax soft tissues, and complement techniques that support comfort, mobility, and overall wellbeing. A Holistic Approach to Recovery At The Herbal Girl, remedial hot stone massage is often combined with other natural therapies to create a personalised treatment experience. Depending on your individual needs, your session may include:
What Is Lomi Lomi Massage? Lomi Lomi is a traditional Hawaiian style of massage. The word lomi means "to knead," "to rub," or "to soothe." Known for its flowing, rhythmic movements, Lomi Lomi uses the forearms as well as the hands to create long, continuous strokes across the body. Rather than focusing on one isolated area, it treats the body as a whole, encouraging harmony between the body and mind. Many people describe Lomi Lomi as a deeply nurturing experience. The continuous, wave-like movements promote deep relaxation, helping to calm the nervous system and providing space to release emotional stress while restoring physical balance. Experience the Difference Whether you're experiencing muscular tension, stiffness, poor circulation, or simply need time to slow down and recharge, Remedial Hot Stone Massage with Lomi Lomi offers more than just relaxation. It brings together ancient healing traditions and modern remedial techniques to support your body's natural movement, comfort, and wellbeing. At The Herbal Girl, every treatment is individually tailored to your needs, integrating remedial massage with natural therapies to help you feel your best—inside and out. If you'd like to experience the therapeutic warmth of Remedial Hot Stone Massage with the nurturing flow of Lomi Lomi, I'd love to welcome you to the clinic. Book your appointment online today and discover how a personalised treatment can help you relax, restore, and reconnect with your wellbeing. 👉 Book your appointment online here Please note: Remedial hot stone massage is intended to support general health and wellbeing. It is not a substitute for medical care. If you have persistent swelling, circulation concerns, or an existing medical condition, please consult your healthcare professional before commencing treatment. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/Natural Therapist
As a remedial massage therapist, I often notice the signs before a client even mentions their water intake. Some have noticeably dry skin, while others have muscles that feel like an overstretched elastic band—tight, stiff and lacking their normal flexibility. It is also not uncommon for clients suffering from frequent headaches or migraines to discover that dehydration has been a contributing factor.
During consultations, a pattern often emerges. Busy lifestyles, long workdays, excessive coffee, tea or alcohol, and simply forgetting to drink enough water all gradually reduce the body's hydration levels. Over time, muscles become less supple, recovery slows, and tension builds. Why Muscles Need Water Water is essential for healthy muscle function and overall wellbeing. Around two-thirds of the human body is made up of water, and every cell depends on water to function properly. Water forms the foundation of body fluids, including blood, which helps transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, while also supporting the removal of waste products. Maintaining adequate hydration helps the body’s tissues and systems—including muscles—function efficiently. When hydration levels drop, muscles can become:
Can Dehydration Cause Headaches? Yes, it can. When the body is dehydrated, blood volume may decrease slightly, reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. This can contribute to headaches and, in some individuals, trigger migraines. Of course, headaches have many possible causes, so persistent or severe symptoms should always be assessed by a healthcare professional. However, ensuring adequate hydration is a simple habit that can support overall wellbeing. Is 2 Litres a Day Really the Rule? The common advice to drink 2 litres of water each day is a useful guideline, but it isn't a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Daily hydration needs depend on many factors, including:
Rather than focusing on a single number, it's more helpful to pay attention to your body's signals, drink consistently throughout the day and adjust your intake based on your lifestyle. Does Water Quality Matter? Hydration is about more than quantity—it is also about quality. Many people notice differences in the taste and smell of tap water depending on where they live. Here on the Central Coast, there are times when the water can have a noticeable chemical odour. While Australian drinking water is regulated and treated to meet safety standards, many people still prefer filtered water because of its improved taste and reduced chlorine or mineral content. Rainwater can also be an excellent option where appropriate, although it is not practical or available for every household. The most important thing is finding a safe and enjoyable source of water that encourages regular hydration. Simple Ways to Stay Hydrated Building healthy hydration habits doesn't have to be difficult. Try to:
Hydration Is a Foundation of Health Water is essential for every cell in the body. It supports circulation, regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, cushions joints and keeps muscles functioning at their best. While hydration alone won't solve every ache and pain, it is one of the simplest and most powerful habits for supporting movement, recovery and overall health. Sometimes, the path to feeling better starts with something as simple as reaching for a glass of water. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/Natural Therapist Biochemic medicine practitioner References:
Using a combination of soft tissue release and targeted deep tissue techniques, I worked to improve movement throughout the entire chain. By the end of the treatment, he was amazed at how much more freely he could move.
Treatment doesn't stop at the massage table. I also noticed signs that he may have been under-hydrated, which can contribute to muscle cramps. We discussed the importance of staying well hydrated, especially during the dry winter months, and I suggested options such as coconut water or aloe vera juice, along with topical magnesium oil, as supportive self-care measures. What makes my approach different is that every treatment is guided by assessment, clinical knowledge, and an understanding that the body works as one connected system. Rather than simply treating where it hurts, the goal is to identify contributing factors and tailor the treatment to each individual's needs. If you're experiencing pain, stiffness, restricted movement, or recurring muscle tightness, I'd love to help. Click here to book an appointment and start your journey back to better movement. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist Natural Therapist Biochemic medicine practitioner
How I discovered Dr. Schüssler’s tissue salts
My first experience with tissue salts came from a personal health issue. I was struggling with stomach discomfort when taking iron supplements in tablet form. During my research, I came across Ferrum Phosphoricum (Iron Phosphate) and decided to try it. At that time, I didn’t fully understand tissue salts—I simply viewed it as a gentler alternative to iron supplementation. Later, I also explored Kalium Chloratum (Potassium Chloride) and Calcium Phosphoricum (Calcium Phosphate) as part of supporting my thyroid health, and I noticed positive results. Because of my personal experience, I became increasingly curious about how these remedies work, which led me to enrol in a formal course. After completing my studies, my understanding changed significantly. I now see tissue salts not just as supplements, but as homeopathic biochemic remedies that work with the body’s functional mineral needs. Each salt is traditionally associated with supporting specific physiological functions and addressing underlying imbalances. For example, Calcium Phosphate is commonly linked to growth, development, and structural support, while also playing a role in overall system vitality. How are Schüssler tissue salts different from supplements and homeopathy? Tissue salts are considered biochemic remedies, based on the idea that they are naturally occurring mineral compounds found in the human body.
Benefits of tissue salts Tissue salts are generally considered safe and gentle when used appropriately. They are often used alongside conventional medication or herbal remedies. However, for certain slow-release medications, spacing (e.g. 2 hours apart) may be recommended for optimal absorption. They are commonly used across all age groups, including:
Final note If you would like to learn more about tissue salts or book a consultation, please click here. Catherine Lui Dip of Biochemic Medicine Dip of Remedial Massage Ad Cert of Naturopathy Reference: Institute of Biochemic Medicine https://www.biochemic-remedies.com.au/practitioners/ Appendix: The 12 tissue salts are: Calcium fluoride (CaF) Calcium phosphate (CaPh) Iron phosphate (FePh) Potassium chloride (KaliCl) Potassium phosphate (KalPh) Potassium sulphate (KaSul) Magnesium phosphate (MgPh) Sodium chloride (NatCl) Sodium phosphate (NatPh) Sodium sulphate (NatSul) Silica (Si) Calcium sulphate (CaSul) The other 15 Tissues salts are: Potassium Arsenite Potassium Bromine Potassium Iodide Lithium Chloride Manganese Sulphur Calcium Arsenite Copper Arsenite Potassium Aluminium Sulphur Zine Chloride How Remedial Massage Relieves Stress and Transforms Lives: What Makes Our Approach Different?5/25/2026
one recent experience reminded me just how deeply stress can impact the body — and how powerful the right therapeutic approach can be.
This client came to me with a goal many people can relate to: she wanted to lose stubborn weight, particularly around her tummy, after trying many different methods that simply hadn’t worked. She was clear about one thing — she did not want to rely on allopathic drugs or invasive interventions. She wanted to support her body naturally. At our first treatment, I knew very little about her personal story. As I began the massage, I could immediately feel significant tightness throughout her body. But this wasn’t the typical muscular tightness caused by posture or overuse. It felt different — deeper, more resistant. This kind of tension often comes from prolonged stress. We spoke about the importance of hydration, nourishment, and supporting the nervous system. More importantly, I focused on creating a safe therapeutic space and intentionally bringing positive energy, encouragement, and calm into the treatment. Sometimes healing begins long before a muscle releases. At her next session, I noticed something had already shifted. Her skin, which had been noticeably dry during the first treatment, felt healthier and more nourished. This often reflects internal changes — better hydration, reduced stress load, and improved circulation. She also began opening up more about what she had been carrying emotionally. She shared that she had gone through a divorce after more than 20 years of marriage — a deeply traumatic life event that had left her carrying prolonged emotional stress. Suddenly, everything made sense. Chronic emotional stress elevates cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. When cortisol stays elevated for too long, it can contribute to:
Her body had been in survival mode. For her second treatment, I changed my approach. Instead of using my handcrafted peppermint massage cream, I selected my handcrafted lavender massage cream combined with Dr. Schuessler No. 10 Nat Sul cream to support relaxation, detoxification, and nervous system regulation. The response was immediate. The moment the lavender cream touched her back, her muscles softened and relaxed without needing deep pressure. This is where our remedial massage approach is different. Many treatments focus only on working harder into tight muscles. But true healing often comes from listening to what the body is communicating. When stress is the root cause, aggressive pressure can sometimes reinforce the body’s protective response. Instead, by combining:
I explained to her how chronic stress had likely kept her nervous system on high alert, making her body hold tension constantly — even when she wasn’t aware of it. Understanding this gave her clarity and hope. Her goal is to return to her ideal shape, but what excites me most is not just the physical transformation ahead. It’s seeing her reconnect with her strength, confidence, and determination. Healing is never just about changing the body. It’s about helping the mind and body work together again. And I’m so grateful to be part of that journey. This is only the beginning. More updates are coming. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/ Natural Therapist Ready to begin your own healing journey? Click here to learn more about how to make an appointment and discover how holistic remedial massage can support your body, mind, and wellbeing.
We often reach for pre-made avocado dips because they’re convenient and, let’s be honest, they taste better than plain avocado. Creamy, salty, herby — they turn something simple into something addictive. But that flavour boost often comes with a hidden trade-off. What I Found When I Looked Closer Out of curiosity, I explored 8 different avocado dips — and the results were eye-opening.
Why This Matters It’s not about labelling foods as “good” or “bad.” Brands can change recipes, and everyone has different needs and budgets. But here’s the key point: ==> What we think we’re eating and what we’re actually eating can be very different. A product marketed as “avocado dip” might be:
The 30-Second Habit That Changes Everything Instead of relying on the front label, take 30 seconds to check the ingredient list:
Finding the Balance Yes — the cost of living is real, and convenience matters. Not everyone has time to prepare everything from scratch. But often:
A simple balance could be:
Final Thought Food is more than just filling your stomach — it’s information for your body. Next time you pick up an avocado dip, pause and ask: “Am I buying avocado… or just the idea of it?” Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/Natural therapist I’ve attached images of the dips I reviewed, including their avocado percentages and added ingredients — so you can see and decide for yourself.
Recently, many people claim eczema is purely a “gut issue.” While gut health plays an important role in immunity and nutrient absorption, reducing eczema to just one cause oversimplifies a complex condition.
We are unique individuals. Genetics, histamine response, environment, diet, stress levels, toxins and emotional health all influence how our body reacts. A single gut-focused solution rarely addresses every root factor. Different Healing Perspectives Ayurvedic View Ayurveda explains eczema as an imbalance of Pitta (fire) and Vata (wind) — leading to redness, dryness, cracking and itchiness. Common contributing factors:
Western Herbal Perspective Western herbal medicine sees eczema as an immune-related condition influenced by:
Common supportive nutrients & herbs: Internal support: Echinacea, burdock root, calendula, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, evening primrose oil, etc. External support: Aloe vera, jojoba oil, chickweed, vitamin E oil, comfrey, etc. Avoiding personal triggers — such as chemicals, detergents, food allergens and additives — is equally important. Beyond Physical Approaches Some believe eczema is linked to emotional trauma or stress, and report improvements through therapies like hypnosis. While interesting, these approaches are not strongly evidence-based — but they highlight one important truth: The body and mind are connected. Final Thought No matter which approach resonates with you, the guiding principle should always be: Do No Harm. True healing is about understanding your body, identifying triggers, and supporting balance — not chasing a single “magic” cause. Holistic Health Support We focus on understanding your body as a whole — not just treating symptoms. If you are interested in our holistic health consultation and biofeedback approach to help identify the root causes of your health concerns, you can book an appointment with us here. Catherine Lui Remedial Massage Therapist/Natural Therapist References:
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