IN CONVERSATION WITH: NATUROPATH FAY, FROM LUNA BEAUTY & APOTHECARY

I've always opted for natural health options before heading to the doctor.

More often that not it's old wives tales that I use, knowledge past down from grandparents. Most of the time though, there is truth behind the remedies. 

We recently visited Fay Halkitis at her stunning store Luna, a place that oozes a calmness adverse to the surroundings of Bourke Street in Surry Hills. Maya, her rescue pup, welcomed us with the biggest hello on arrival, (she has become my current obsession), as we sat down to chat about Fay's views on natural healing, getting her expert knowledge and insight on what goes into holistic health and overall wellbeing. 

TLSE: Naturopathy and Holistic Health are becoming more common, but are still not mainstream topics; what inspired you to become a Naturopath and get into holistic health?

FAY: I’ve always been interested in all things herbal and had my first experience and success with herbal medicine during my final year of high school. I didn’t live the healthiest lifestyle during my early twenties and suffered from quite terrible anxiety. That’s when I decided I wanted to turn everything around and make health my profession. It was the best decision and I’ve never looked back! 

What’s your philosophy on health and wellbeing?

I think I have a relaxed approach to health and wellbeing. I believe 100% in taking care of yourself and putting health first but I don’t let it rule or control my life. In my opinion, true health is when you get to the point that you don’t have to think about it anymore because it simply becomes such a natural and integrated part of your lifestyle. This is what I strive to achieve with all my clients. Making healthy decisions for yourself and your family shouldn’t be a chore or about deprivation. It really isn’t as hard as what most people think but there definitely aren’t any shortcuts. I mostly steer away from programs or cleanses. It’s much better to think of food and lifestyle adjustments as lifelong choices. Education, a bit of food prep and a commitment to feeling good is key. 

How do you feel our lifestyle these days affects our health?

Internet and social media is a double-edged sword. On the one hand we have a wealth of information at our fingertips but on the other hand it is difficult to switch off and not compare every aspect of our life to that of others. This creates insecurities and often confuses people about what the right path is for them.  

We all know that organic and natural is the best way to go; what is so special about the products you use?

The formulations of each product I stock are genuinely intelligent and effective. There is so much choice now and I’ve noticed more brands are embracing modern formulating techniques with old world botanical knowledge. 

For someone that is unaware of holistic health and beauty, where is the best place to start?

It’s a very gradual process when reviewing your pantry and bathroom cabinet, so my best advice is to phase new products in as you run out of the old. Thankfully there are so many wonderful brands creating truly remarkable products. Try also to avoid choosing products based on trend. Speak to a professional and find out what will work for your routine and skin. 

"Food is your fuel so there is no denying it will affect how you feel"

With the idea the food is medicine, what are the best ways to incorporate this concept into your life?

Food is your fuel so there is no denying it will affect how you feel. Try not to be to restrictive either. I believe it is all about the quality of the food you consume. Quality will completely determine the nutritional profile of the food you consume. Enjoy high welfare grass fed and finished red meat, organic poultry, eggs and dairy, sustainable seafood and plenty of organic fruit and vegetables. The best way to incorporate this concept is to do a stock take of your fridge and pantry. If you have all the right ingredients at home, you can’t go too wrong! 

What is your approach to assessing someone’s health and what can someone expect when coming in for a consultation?

They can expect a full body system review regardless of their main concern. It always becomes obvious to the client through the consultation process just how interrelated all the body systems are. 

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Words, Enika Rood

Photography, Heloise Love