The Art of Tao
My Background
Expertise
With over 10 years of experience as a licensed acupuncturist, The Art of Tao has gracefully evolved to embrace Sound Therapy, utilising tuning forks and a variety of other sound healing instruments instead of traditional needles. My approach weaves together the ancient wisdom of Chinese Medicine , Facial Gua sha, and mindful rituals to offer a gentle, holistic path into well-being. Complimented by a strong foundation in naturopathic nutrition and dental health, my practice is dedicated to restoring balance, vitality, and inner harmony tailored uniquely to each individual.
Credentials
1994 - 2000
Dental Nursing, Oral Health Education and Dental Radiography - AS Level
During my time as a dental nurse, I gained extensive experience and qualifications in dental nursing, oral health education, and dental radiography. This hands-on experience not only allowed me to support and advise patients through various treatments but also has deepened my knowledge and understanding of how the cranial region, including the anatomy and physiology of the mouth and teeth works in close conjunction with the rest of the body. This knowledge gives me a greater understanding of how the human body functions as a whole, enabling me to provide more accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and holistic advice that supports optimal health and healing.
2004-2006
Naturopathic Nutrition Diploma
Driven by a deep interest in the power of food and the body's natural ability to heal, I went on to earn a Diploma in Naturopathic Nutrition. I saw this as both a personal calling and a powerful extension of my holistic work. I view nutrition as the foundation of all health, the fundamental building blocks that supports every system in the body. While I do not offer nutritional consultations as a separate service, I draw on this knowledge as part of a holistic, whole body approach, incorporating nutritional insight when relevant to support the client's overall treatment., using nutritional insight to compliment and enhance the broader therapeutic process.
2010-2011
Oriental Body Balance - Diploma
I'm also trained in Oriental Body Balance, a dynamic approach that blends Eastern and Western techniques that brings together different healing methods to treat the whole person, supporting natural heaing and restoring physical and energetic balance.
2012-2015
College of Integrated Chinese Medicine - Degree
Most importantly, my degree in Chinese Medicine has pulled all of these experiences together It serves as the foundation and focus of my work, shaping the way I understand the body, interpret symptoms, and guide clients through healing.
2019
Chinese Medicine Sound Harmonisation - Weekend Workshop
This training opened the doorway into Sound Therapy and the experience introduced me to the power of sound frequencies and vibrational resonance in supporting emotional and energetic balance with the use of elemental acoustic instruments to harmonise the chakras and aura. Although not a formal qualification, it was a a pivotal point in my development and laid the foundation for the sound based healing work I now offer.
2020-2021
Tama-Do level 1 training
I also undertook an in-depth 1 years training with the Tama-Do Academy, immersing myself in their sound, colour and energy healing teachings. Their Level 1 training opened my path further into vibrational healing, combining sound, colour, and Qi Gong movement based on the Chinese Five Element system. This immersive course included experience with tuning forks on acupuncture points, musical spine and chakra harmonising techniques, colour therapy with silks and light, and energetic Qi Gong. this practice has given me a very strong foundation that continues to shape the way I use sound healing today.
2021-2022
200 Hour Certificate of NAAD YOGA Sound Meditation - Leo Consendai
I also completed a 200 hour NAAD Yoga Sound Meditation training with Leo Consendai focusing on the use of gongs and acoustic instruments for meditative and therapeutic sound baths. This training taught me how to facilitate group and 1:1 sessions, using sound to guide clients into deep states of rest, nervous system regulation, and expand awareness. Rooted in yogic principles, it further enriched the meditative and spiritual dimensions of my sound therapy work.
2024
Sound Healing Academy Level 1 Certificate Foundations of Integrated Sound Healing Multi Instrument
To deepen my sound therapy work further, I completed Level 1 training with the Sound Healing Academy, focusing on the foundations of integrated sound healing. This course explored the use of multiple instruments including tuning forks, Tibetan and crystal bowls, drums and voice to support healing on a physical, emotional and energetic level. It has provided me with the tools to offer personalised multi instrument sound therapy.
2019
Gua sha for Practitioners Level 1
I expanded my Gua sha journey with a level 1 Gua sha course with the Komorebi Institute, focusing on the core methods and therapeutic benefits of facial Gua sha. This included techniques to support lymphatic flow, skin vitality, and energetic release held in the face. This practice goes beyond surface-level beauty, it works with the energetic and emotional layers held in the face, making it a deeply restorative and grounding practice.
2024
Health and Wellness Gua sha Level 1 & 2
To further my practice, I completed Level 1 and 2 Health and Wellness Gua sha training, expanding into full body therapeutic applications of this traditional method. Supporting common ailments and chronic conditions, and to enhance vitality and wellness.