Gabe Stewart, Massage Therapist and Trainer
I am what is known as a late bloomer. I became a massage therapist after more than thirty years in journalism. My last post in that profession was as Special Reports Editor at The Scotsman Publications, where a reputation for professionalism, confidentiality and commitment to quality resulted in a number of awards. The effects of negative stress, however, required me to learn methods to improve my own wellbeing, which in turn led me to a change of career.
I am utterly captivated by, and passionate about, massage therapy and I never tire of the satisfaction brought about by a job well done. In this regard, the ideals I held in my former career have continued on to my new one. My thirst for knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject led me to enrol on the UK's first massage degree-level course (the Professional Diploma in Advanced Clinical and Sports Massage, taught by the prestigious Jing Institute of Advanced Massage Training in Brighton, UK) because I am committed to joining an elite band of Jing practitioners who are recognised by many of their medically-qualified peers as being among best-qualified and most professional massage therapists in the UK.
In my spare time, I love heated discussions with my book club and keeping up to date with the latest in arts and science. I also enjoy running and hillwalking, writing and socialising, although I wish I had more time to fit more dancing, singing, Pilates, yoga and kayaking in my life too...
Massage-relevant qualifications and experience:
I was initially trained in massage in Edinburgh by the renowned New Zealand holistic massage teacher Lolit Gilbert, under whose guidance I attained a merit in the ITEC Diploma in Massage (a qualification recognised by the NHS).
I subsequently studied at the Jing Institute of Advanced Massage Training in Brighton whose Foundation in Advanced Clinical Massage Techniques qualifies me to practise trigger point therapy, myofascial release (MFR), forearm massage, sports stretching and table shiatsu. I attained a 91% pass mark in my final Advanced Clinical Massage Therapist (ACMT) examination. The Jing Institute is renowned for equipping graduates with a toolbox filled with various massage techniques from both Eastern and Western traditions, chosen for their efficacy in treating chronic pain.
I also hold additional certificates in a variety of advanced massage techniques, including deep tissue massage, pregnancy massage, Indian head massage, reflexology, massage for people living with cancer and Neal's Yard Remedies holistic facial massage.
I am a member of the Complementary Therapists Association.
I also teach the Knotstressed Pregnancy Massage Training course.
I have my own massage business at Holyrood Holistic:
