My Journey
Into Natural Health
Melissa Briggs, Brisbane clinical Naturopath
Founder of Elixir Naturopathy
My journey into natural health started when I was very young. My mother worked in a health food store so I was always surrounded by Naturopaths, Acupuncturists & Nutritionists.
I was an introvert and experienced anxiety throughout my childhood. It was only in my teenage years that it started to take over my life and I began experiencing panic attacks. At the time though I didn't know what anxiety was, let alone a panic attack. With the advice from a Naturopath, I was able to understand my body and the importance of nutrition to ease my anxiety.
Growing up in Byron Bay surrounded by natural health solutions & practitioners inadvertently lead me to study Naturopathy. This has allowed me to support others the way I was supported in my childhood.
In 2010, I studied at Endeavour College of Natural Health in Brisbane part time during the week, whilst living in Byron Bay the other half. I was burning the candle at both ends, like most do in their 20’s. The juggle of travel, work and study wasn't sustainable.
Part way into my degree I feel ill and was hospitalised for a week with an unknown condition. I had a throat examination where they found a lump on my thyroid. Scans and biopsy’s showed suspicions for cancers and I was advised to have immediate surgery to have the lump removed.
The first surgery removed half of my thyroid containing the lump, showing that I had a particular type of thyroid cancer called a papillary carcinoma. I was very lucky in that my tumour was fully encapsulated so didn't need radioactive iodine treatment. However, it was recommended that I have the second half of my thyroid removed to assess for further tumours and for ease of future monitoring. After some deliberation, I decided to proceed with the 2nd surgery.
This journey lead me to researching thyroid disease prevalence, the role of nutrition and how our exposure to certain nutrients is needed for a healthy functioning thyroid has declined over the years.
2 months after my second surgery, with even more motivation to work in the natural health industry, I moved to Brisbane and completed my degree.
It is from here that Elixir Naturopathy was born
I know exactly what if feels like to be confronted by the many varying symptoms that come with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism and I will guide you on your journey to optimal health.
My own experiences have opened my eyes up to the increased prevalence of thyroid conditions amongst women, along with the impact our genetics, environment and nutrition plays on our hormonal health.
I have a strong passion for supporting women through their own health journey by giving them the necessary tools and guidance to improve their health.
Below are my areas of specialty:
Thyroid health | Goitre | Subclinical hypothyroidism | Hypothyroidism | Hashimoto’s disease | Immunity and Autoimmune conditions | Stress & Fatigue | Anxiety | Reproductive health & fertility | Gut health | SIBO | Adrenal health
+ more…
Elixir Naturopathy foundational principles:
Health is a Journey
There is no such thing as a quick fix. Health is about implementing a set of habits, that when combined long term, equate to a healthy life.
In Support
I am here to support you. I will take the time to listen to your story in a caring and supportive environment and work with you to support your health.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
I believe in instilling clients with the information and tools to make healthy life choices and support their own health long term.
Individuality
I recognise that no two people are the same. So why should healthcare be? I recognise your biodiversity and tailor health advice to your needs.
CLICK PLAY on the video for an insight into Naturopathy and consultations with Melissa.
Ready to take the first step towards a healthy happy life?
Proud member of the following associations & alumni:
