About Annabel

Annabel Mackenzie qualified as a Registered Shiatsu Therapist (RST) in 1990. In 1994 she began her apprenticeship in Manual Therapy and Osteopathic techniques, earning her BI-Diplomate in 2013. This is the highest level of certification given by Jean Pierre Barral DO, Alain Croibier DO, and the Barral Institute.

In 2006 Annabel became the Canadian member of the International Barral Institute teaching team. She has translated eight osteopathic textbooks from the original French into English.

In Annabel’s experience patients rarely come for treatment at the first sign of a pain or mobility issue. The body has a great ability to withstand and recover and from such events as trauma, whiplash, and even surgery The progression of a problem can remain imperceptible as long as compensation is possible. Patients commonly attribute an acute complaint to a recent event. However, once symptoms arise, evaluation is the most important part of treatment. The job of the therapist is to discover areas of greatest restriction, that are not always at the same location as the main complaint. An old ankle sprain can be the underlying cause of chronic hip pain. Headache or neck pain can be due to a fall long ago on the tailbone. Annabel uses gentle specifically directed manual forces to relieve pain and restore resiliency. The musculoskeletal container, as well as the delicate intelligent contents (organs, circulatory and nervous systems) are both important in resolving problems and restoring vital health and mobility.

Annabel is an active member of the STA (Shiatsu Therapy Association of British Columbia) and the AOBTA(American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia). She issues a Shiatsu receipt.