BALANCE OF HEALTH

Balance of Health is an integrative health practice based on the Central Coast, founded by degree-qualified practitioner Rebecca Sawatske. The clinic is dedicated to delivering personalised, evidence-based care through a multi-modality approach, tailored to support your unique health journey.

You deserve to feel supported by someone who truly listens, someone who understands both the science and the soul of healing.

Hi, I’m Bec Sawatske.

As a degree-qualified Naturopath with over 20 years of experience, I bring a grounded, evidence-based approach to health care that’s built on integrity, transparency, and deep respect for your individual journey.

My background in both environmental science and natural medicine reflects my belief that health is shaped by connection — to nature, to our bodies, and to our own inner rhythms. I work with people who care deeply for others, often to their own detriment, and I’m here to help restore that balance with clarity, compassion, and personalised care.

Whether through therapeutic bodywork, targeted nutrition, lifestyle guidance, or practitioner-grade supplements, you’ll receive expert, tailored support, designed to meet you where you’re at and move you toward where you want to be.

But this is your journey. I’ll walk alongside you, offering insight and structure, while you take the steps. Because real, lasting change begins when you’re ready to honour your own wellbeing.

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SPECIALISING IN PROACTIVE HEALTHCARE

What is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy is an amazing approach to taking care of your health. It recognizes the body’s natural ability to heal itself and combines traditional healing methods with modern medical science for safe and effective treatments.

Naturopath’s use a variety of therapies, including dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, exercise, nutritional supplements, and herbal medicine to support your health. By looking at the root causes of illness, rather than just treating symptoms, naturopaths create personalized treatment plans based on evidence. Prevention and early intervention are key to their approach, and they focus on promoting long-term wellness. Naturopathy takes a holistic view of your health and offers a sustainable approach to healthcare that uses the power of nature and your body’s natural healing abilities.

Approach to Body Work

Remedial massage benefits the body, mind, and overall well-being by targeting specific areas of tension and discomfort. It improves blood flow, reduces pain and stress, and restores proper function and equilibrium. This holistic approach to healthcare is ideal for those experiencing physical discomfort or anxiety-related conditions.

Cold laser therapy can enhance remedial massage by complementing its benefits. When used in conjunction, cold laser treatment can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and accelerate tissue healing, synergising with the therapeutic effects of remedial massage. This combined approach offers a holistic and effective solution for addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal issues and promoting overall well-being.

What is cold laser treatment?

Cold laser treatment, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses low-intensity lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate healing and reduce pain and inflammation. This safe and painless therapy promotes tissue repair by targeting specific areas of concern within the body, increasing blood flow, and encouraging the body’s natural healing processes.

Cold laser treatment is versatile, making it widely utilised in healthcare for managing various conditions, from chronic pain to tissue injuries. This therapy is backed by extensive scientific research, further solidifying its effectiveness in promoting healing and managing pain. Cold laser treatment continues to be a promising medical intervention, assisting patients in achieving better quality of life through aiding the body’s natural healing processes.

“Healing is a matter of time, but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity.”

– Hippocrates

OUR STORY

WHAT DO WE TREAT?

Womens Health

How can naturopathy support women’s health?

Naturopathy takes a holistic approach to healing by addressing the root cause of symptoms rather than just suppressing them. For women, this means support across various life stages, adolescence, fertility, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. Naturopathy may use herbal medicine, nutritional therapy, lifestyle counselling, and functional testing to assist with hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, stress, fatigue, thyroid disorders, and more. The goal is to restore balance and promote the body’s own healing processes.

What role does nutrition play in managing women’s health issues?

Nutrition is foundational to women’s health. A tailored diet can help regulate hormones, support metabolic health, reduce inflammation, and improve mood and energy levels. Clinical nutritionists work with conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS), identifying nutrient deficiencies and recommending food and supplement protocols to improve outcomes. Food-as-medicine principles are used to support gut health, mental wellbeing, fertility, and healthy ageing.

What is body work, and how does it benefit women’s health?

Body work refers to therapeutic touch-based modalities such as remedial massage, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and somatic therapy. These techniques help reduce physical and emotional tension, improve circulation, support detoxification, and regulate the nervous system. Body work is particularly beneficial for women experiencing chronic pain, stress, fatigue, pelvic tension, or trauma-related somatic symptoms. It supports deeper healing by reconnecting body and mind.

Can these therapies be used together?

Absolutely. Integrating naturopathy, nutrition, and body work can offer a comprehensive and personalised approach to health. For example, a woman with PCOS might benefit from nutritional guidance for insulin regulation, herbal medicine for hormonal balance, and remedial massage to support circulation and relaxation. Working synergistically, these modalities enhance resilience, reduce symptoms, and improve long-term wellbeing.

What kinds of women’s health conditions can be supported?

Common concerns addressed include:

  • Menstrual pain and irregular cycles

  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

  • Endometriosis

  • Perimenopause and menopause transitions

  • Fertility and preconception care

  • Postnatal recovery

  • Thyroid dysfunction

  • Stress-related conditions (e.g., adrenal fatigue, burnout)

  • Mood disturbances and low energy

  • Gut and immune health issues impacting hormonal balance

Mental Health

How can naturopathy help with mental health?

Naturopathy views mental health through a whole-person lens, considering physical, emotional, nutritional, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Naturopaths may use herbal medicine, nutritional support, stress management tools, and functional testing to address underlying contributors to anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, or burnout. Care is tailored to the individual, often supporting the nervous system, adrenal function, gut health, and hormonal balance to improve emotional resilience and cognitive function.

What is the connection between nutrition and mental wellbeing?

There is a strong, evidence-based link between what we eat and how we feel. Nutritional psychiatry shows that deficiencies in key nutrients, such as B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and amino acids—can contribute to mood imbalances, fatigue, and poor cognitive function. Clinical nutritionists assess dietary patterns, nutrient levels, and gut health to develop personalised protocols that support neurotransmitter production, stabilise mood, and reduce inflammation that may contribute to mental health symptoms.

How does body work support emotional and mental health?

Body work includes therapeutic touch therapies like massage, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and somatic bodywork. These treatments calm the nervous system, reduce muscle tension, and release stored emotional trauma from the body. For people experiencing anxiety, PTSD, or chronic stress, body work offers a non-verbal, deeply grounding way to regulate the stress response and reconnect with a sense of safety in the body. It can be a powerful adjunct to talk therapy or trauma-informed counselling.

Can these therapies be combined to improve mental health outcomes?

Yes. A multimodal, integrative approach can significantly enhance mental health support. For example, someone experiencing anxiety may receive nutritional support to stabilise blood sugar and reduce inflammation, herbal medicine to support adrenal health and sleep, and regular body work sessions to help regulate their nervous system. This holistic model respects the complex interplay between the mind, body, and biochemistry—offering a more sustainable path to emotional wellbeing.

What mental health conditions can be supported using this approach?

We commonly support individuals dealing with:

  • Anxiety and panic attacks

  • Depression and low mood

  • Stress and burnout

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Insomnia and disrupted sleep

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Cognitive fatigue and brain fog

  • Menstrual-related mood disturbances (e.g., PMDD)

  • Gut-brain axis imbalances (e.g., IBS with mood symptoms)

Digestion and gut health

How can naturopathy support digestive and gut health?

Naturopathy focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of digestive discomfort, not just the symptoms. Using a combination of detailed health history, symptom mapping, and functional testing (such as stool analysis or SIBO breath testing), a naturopath can uncover underlying issues like dysbiosis, food intolerances, gut inflammation, or leaky gut. Treatment often includes herbal medicine, targeted nutrients, digestive enzymes, and personalised lifestyle strategies to restore healthy gut function and reduce symptoms.

How does nutrition impact gut health?

Nutrition plays a foundational role in digestive health. The foods we eat directly influence the balance of gut bacteria, the integrity of the gut lining, and how well we absorb nutrients. Clinical nutritionists work to create tailored meal plans that reduce inflammation, repair the gut lining, support digestion, and promote microbial diversity. Conditions such as IBS, bloating, constipation, reflux, and food sensitivities can be improved with strategic dietary changes and targeted nutrient support.

What role does body work play in supporting digestion?

Body work can positively impact digestion by supporting the parasympathetic nervous system—the state in which rest, digestion, and healing occur. Techniques such as abdominal massage, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and craniosacral therapy help to relieve physical tension, improve circulation to the digestive organs, and reduce the impact of stress on gut motility. For those experiencing constipation, bloating, or gut-related anxiety, body work can restore a sense of calm and physical ease that enhances digestion.

Is a combined approach more effective for gut issues?

Yes. A combined approach allows us to support all aspects of digestive health—biological, nutritional, and emotional. For example, a client with IBS may benefit from a low FODMAP diet plan, herbal antimicrobials, gut-healing nutrients like L-glutamine or zinc carnosine, and massage therapy to relax abdominal tension. This integrative care improves outcomes, especially in complex or stress-sensitive cases, by addressing both the physiology of digestion and the gut-brain connection.

What kinds of digestive concerns can be addressed with this approach?

We commonly support clients experiencing:

  • Bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

  • Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

  • Reflux and heartburn

  • Constipation or diarrhoea

  • Leaky gut (intestinal permeability)

  • Food intolerances and sensitivities

  • Gut-related fatigue, mood changes, or skin issues

  • Post-infectious gut dysfunction

  • Poor nutrient absorption

pain and inflammation

How can naturopathy help with pain and inflammation?

Naturopathy addresses the root causes of pain and chronic inflammation by considering the whole person, physical, biochemical, and emotional. Using evidence-based herbal medicine, anti-inflammatory nutrients, and functional testing (e.g. CRP, food intolerance panels), naturopaths support the body’s natural healing processes. Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, menstrual pain, headaches, gut inflammation, and injury recovery can often be managed effectively using a personalised, non-pharmaceutical approach.

What role does nutrition play in reducing inflammation?

Nutrition is one of the most powerful tools for managing inflammation. Diets high in sugar, processed foods, and poor-quality fats are known to worsen pain and systemic inflammation. Clinical nutritionists work to identify and remove inflammatory triggers, and instead focus on anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3-rich fish, colourful vegetables, spices like turmeric and ginger, and high-fibre wholefoods. This can reduce symptoms in conditions like autoimmune disorders, musculoskeletal pain, and chronic fatigue.

How does body work contribute to pain relief?

Body work techniques, such as remedial massage, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, and trigger point therapy—directly relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce physical discomfort. These therapies not only provide symptom relief but also help the body recover from injury, regulate the nervous system, and improve mobility. For clients living with chronic pain, body work can be a key part of restoring quality of life and reducing reliance on pain medication.

Can these therapies work together for chronic pain conditions?

Yes, combining naturopathy, nutrition, and body work offers a holistic and sustainable solution for chronic pain. For example, a client with osteoarthritis might benefit from anti-inflammatory meal planning, curcumin and omega-3 supplementation, and regular massage therapy to reduce joint stiffness. This integrative care model helps manage pain from multiple angles—biochemical, structural, and emotional—often achieving better outcomes than using a single modality alone.

What types of pain or inflammatory conditions can be supported naturally?

Common conditions we support include:

  • Arthritis (osteo and rheumatoid)

  • Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue

  • Back and neck pain

  • Migraines and tension headaches

  • Menstrual pain and endometriosis

  • Muscle and joint inflammation

  • Post-injury recovery and soft tissue pain

  • Gut-related inflammation (e.g., IBD, food intolerances)

  • Autoimmune conditions

  • Neuropathic pain

childrens health

How can naturopathy support children’s health and development?

Naturopathy offers a gentle, holistic approach to children’s health that focuses on supporting the body’s natural healing ability. Naturopaths consider factors such as immune strength, gut health, nutrition, sleep, emotional wellbeing, and environment when addressing common childhood concerns. Treatments may include herbal medicine, homeopathy, nutritional support, and lifestyle guidance tailored to the child’s age, stage, and temperament. This approach is suitable for both acute issues (like colds, ear infections) and chronic conditions (such as eczema, allergies, or behavioural concerns).

Why is nutrition so important in children’s health?

Nutrition is the foundation of healthy growth and development. A balanced, nutrient-dense diet supports brain function, mood regulation, immune resilience, and energy levels. Clinical nutritionists help families navigate picky eating, food sensitivities, gut issues, and nutrient deficiencies, ensuring children receive the key building blocks they need. Tailored nutrition plans can support issues like ADHD, anxiety, eczema, digestive complaints, recurrent infections, and poor concentration at school.

How does body work benefit children?

Body work therapies such as gentle massage, craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, and lymphatic drainage are safe and effective for children. These techniques can assist with colic, sleep disturbances, tension from birth trauma, growing pains, or sensory overload. In older children, body work may also help regulate the nervous system, support emotional regulation, and relieve musculoskeletal discomfort—especially in children who carry tension from stress or anxiety.

Are these therapies safe and child-friendly?

Yes, all approaches are gentle, non-invasive, and adjusted for each child’s developmental stage and individual needs. We work collaboratively with families to ensure children feel safe, comfortable, and empowered during their care. Practitioners are trained to work with children of all ages, from babies and toddlers through to adolescents, using age-appropriate language, techniques, and strategies.

What common childhood conditions can be supported naturally?

Our holistic approach can assist with a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Recurrent colds, flus, and infections

  • Eczema, allergies, and asthma

  • Constipation, reflux, and digestive discomfort

  • Sleep difficulties and night waking

  • Anxiety, tantrums, and mood swings

  • Behavioural concerns, including ADHD

  • Food sensitivities and picky eating

  • Low energy and poor immunity

  • Growth and developmental support

  • Sensory integration and emotional regulation challenges

Functional Testing

Functional testing helps uncover what’s happening beneath the surface, offering valuable insights into the root causes of your symptoms. It’s not required for every client, but can be a helpful tool when deeper investigation is needed. Some of the most commonly used tests include:

  • OMX Metabolomics: Advanced urine test assessing organic acids, amino acids, and other biomarkers to reveal metabolic function, nutrient status, and underlying health imbalances.

  • Comprehensive Stool Analysis (Microbiome Mapping): Advanced DNA-based stool test assessing gut bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, and digestive markers to identify imbalances, pathogens, and factors affecting overall gut health.

  • FoodFit Hair Compatibility Test: Non-invasive analysis using hair samples to assess your body’s electrical compatibility with over 600 foods and household items, helping identify those that may support or disrupt your health — safe for babies and pets.

  • Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA): Non-invasive hair test measuring essential minerals and toxic metals, providing insight into nutrient status, metabolic function, stress response, and long-term exposure to heavy metals.

  • General Blood Pathology: Comprehensive blood testing interpreted through a functional lens, focusing on optimal ranges for the individual rather than standard “normal” limits. Common markers assessed include full blood count, iron studies, thyroid panel, vitamin D, B12, liver and kidney function, cholesterol profile, and inflammation markers such as CRP.

The cost of testing varies depending on what’s required and typically ranges from $50 to $1000.

Customised Naturopathic Prescription

Your prescription has been carefully customised to support your unique health needs and goals. These practitioner-only formulations are sourced through a trusted Sydney-based supplier and delivered directly to your door, ensuring quality, safety, and convenience. Each product is selected to work alongside your diet and lifestyle plan for the best possible results.

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Are these sessions covered by private health?

Do private health insurers rebate my sessions or formulas?
 Not at this stage , but change is coming.
 In 2019, the Australian Government removed naturopathy and 15 other natural therapies from the list of treatments eligible for private health insurance rebates. However, following recent reforms and advocacy efforts, this decision is now being reviewed. The latest government amendments mean that private health insurers may soon be able to offer rebates for naturopathic consultations again, depending on your level of cover. We’ll keep this page updated as more details are released.

What is the cancellation policy?
 We appreciate at least 24 hours’ notice for rescheduling or cancelling appointments. Cancellations within 24 hours or missed appointments will incur a $100 fee, which helps us offer timely care to other clients. Thank you for your understanding.