For Raquel Stirling, Free Flow Massage Therapy began with a simple, heartfelt intention: to create a space that felt calm, nurturing and truly supportive – both for others and for herself. Born from a deep passion for holistic healing and a desire to be more present with her family, this business has grown organically, step by step, into something much bigger than she could have imagined. What started in a spare bedroom and a bohemian-style shed has now expanded into two beautiful clinic spaces, serving her local community with care, integrity and soul. This is the story of how Free Flow Massage Therapy came to life – and how it continues to evolve, grounded in flow, freedom and a whole lot of heart. Raquel talks to The Natural parent Magazine about the passion behind what she does, the pros and cons of running her own business, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
Honestly, it was mostly passion. I really wanted to offer something meaningful to my community – something grounding, supportive and real. I wanted to create a space that felt calm, safe and nourishing – for others and for myself. But just as importantly, I wanted to create a life where I could be more present at home. This has always been a big part of the ‘why’ behind my business.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
In 2021, I decided to study my Diploma of Remedial Massage, even though I’d already been a qualified relaxation and deep tissue massage therapist since 2019. I worked for City Cave up until COVID. Part of the Remedial course involved doing a whole lot of free massages – and thankfully, my friends and the local community were amazing and really showed up to support me. A lot of them are still regulars!
I started out massaging in a spare bedroom at home. Then I moved into the big shed out the back, setting up a very bohemian-style gazebo. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was full of heart. In 2024, I had a strong urge to change my business name to Free Flow – and from there, everything literally started to FLOW! I was offered a beautiful space in Kalbar to set myself up. Then 6 months later, I was blessed with another beautiful space in Harrisville, only a minute away from home! Now, Free Flow Massage Therapy is offered in both locations. I still can’t believe it some days!
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
One of the biggest breakthroughs was realising that I could build something in my own way – with my family woven into the journey, not squeezed around it. Realising that business doesn’t have to be hard: that was huge. When things are aligned, they literally just… FLOW. I’ve never felt like I’ve been grinding. I create from real life, shifting mindset, seeing everything as an opportunity. That’s what made the biggest difference.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Balance is a constant work in progress! Some weeks feel beautifully balanced; other weeks, not so much – and that’s okay. I try to stay flexible and remind myself why I started this journey in the first place. Family comes first, always. And honestly, having my kids see me turn a ‘dream’ into ‘reality’ has been one of the most rewarding parts.
