Whether in mind, spirit or body, on some level we all feel from time to time we could be doing more to keep healthy. For UK-born Anita Hale, founder of Merrifield Wellness, it was an observation that inspired her over a decade ago to pursue the path of integrative therapies and medicine.

“One of my biggest inspirations in life was my late grandfather,” says the accredited Naturopath, Nutritionist and Life Coach. “He always swore by natural remedies!”

For Anita, nothing is more important than being in tune with what your body needs. “I really think that by investing in your emotional, physical and spiritual health, it’s possible to live a balanced life according to the laws of nature,” she says.

“In fact, Merrifield Wellness was founded on the simple philosophy that the human body has an intuitive ability to heal itself. My role is simply to help guide people towards that realisation.”

A boutique natural health clinic dedicated to the delivery of holistic mind-body treatments for the Merrifield community, Merrifield Wellness is a recent recipient of a Merrifield Community Grant. For Anita, the business represents the culmination of years of work and research in the field of alternative health.

“I’ve been part of the wellness industry for a while now,” says Anita, “but the Grant has helped me to establish a clinic that really captures the Merrifield essence of ‘family and home’.” And with services ranging from herbal medicines to pathology and life coaching, Merrifield Wellness is filling a clear need for the community. “Health and wellness is in high demand.”

“Part of my role is in educating the broader community on how to live a healthier lifestyle,” she says. “We offer tailored treatment plans designed to work in harmony with a person’s lifestyle.” And for Anita, environment is vitally important in that equation.

“We’re very fortunate here with the park and natural backdrop surrounding Merrifield, and the notion of living among farmland and vineyards. I’ve been living in Melbourne for 14 years and this is the place I now call home.”

One thing Anita is particularly excited by is collaborating with fellow Merrifield business M-Fit to provide the community with a range of Signature Wellness Packages. “It’s great to be able to team up with like-minded professionals such as Michelle,” she says.

“Working in tandem is going to be such a great value-add for everyone,” says Anita. “Plus, if ever there’s a particular service or topic people would like know more about then feel free to get in touch!”

When asked what 2018 has in store for Merrifield Wellness, Anita beams. “We’re working towards adding a Massage Therapy to our services, to offer more for the people of Merrifield. And we’re also looking forward to working with the new Marnong Estate this year, so watch this space!”

Visit Merrifield Wellness website or Facebook.