After years of having her own symptoms ignored by health practitioners, Storm discovered herbalism and natural health, which transformed her life. Now a qualified Naturopath & Medical Herbalist, she offers expert natural healthcare and effective herbal healing in a supportive space where her clients will feel heard and understood. Here she talks about launching Functional Naturopathy and her natural healing journey so far.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
Growing up, I never knew what it felt like to be ‘well’. I have seen many practitioners and done a lot of ‘googling’ over the years, but I always felt confused by my symptoms. I was often told that nothing was wrong, that I was a hypochondriac or that my symptoms were ‘all in my head’. Meanwhile, I was still struggling with severe abdominal pain, chronic digestive issues, acne, PMDD and hormone imbalances. It was almost fate when I stumbled across a book about herbalism one day.
To be honest, I never really expected any of this stuff to work but it sparked a journey down the rabbit hole of natural health. From here I experimented with natural practitioners, paid for extra testing and FINALLY found the answers I was looking for. After years of ‘unexplained’ symptoms, I had the answers: chronic candida, food sensitivities and polycystic ovarian disease.
Going through my own journey of healing eventually led me to a 3-year qualification in Naturopathy & Herbalism, followed by the opening of my business.
I was inspired to become a naturopath to help people find the answers they are looking for – so they don’t have to spend years struggling through unexplained symptoms like I did.
It brings me joy to educate people about what their bodies are telling them, diving in to comprehensive testing and providing natural solutions for their health concerns.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
I was blessed to be working for a chiropractor during my study as a naturopath. So, when I graduated, I worked through the clinic while establishing my business. Eventually, I wanted to find my own flair and personal touch. It took a few different moves and locations but now I get to work at the most amazing wellness store here in Palmerston North.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
There have been many ah-ha moments along the way. My best innovation has been specialising in my profession. I have come to realise that you can be good at many different things, or an expert in one or two areas. So, I now focus predominantly on hormonal and digestive health with attention to women and children.
