Prana Treatment Room – Undine Damhuis, Ayurvedic Practitioner
With its roots in India and a history spanning more than 5000 years, Ayurveda (Sanskrit: Ayu = life, Veda = science) is recognised by the World Health Organization as one of the most complete health systems. On the Sunshine Coast, local practitioner Undine Damhuis is helping clients experience the benefits of this ancient yet highly relevant approach to health and wellbeing.
Undine’s path to Ayurveda has been anything but conventional. Raised in East Germany in a family of medical professionals, she developed a deep curiosity about how different cultures approach life and health. Her travels took her from Switzerland to South Africa, where she worked with marine conservation organisation Sea Shepherd. That experience ignited a desire to explore the connection between humans and the environment.
“After learning about the importance of our oceans, I wanted to understand our connection to soil and food,” she said.
In 2014, Undine moved to Queensland and began working on Shambhala Farm in Doonan, sparking a passion for food-based healing systems. She immersed herself in research on farming practices—biodynamic, organic, syntropic, and conventional— gaining a deeper understanding of how chemical use on crops affects not only consumers but also the health of farmers and workers.
“I was searching for a modality that addressed the body and mind through food. That’s when I found Ayurveda,” she said.
In 2016, she began formal study under Professor Jason Chandler in Byron Bay and has continued her professional development ever since.
“Ayurveda is becoming increasingly popular because it encourages people to take care of their body, mind, soul, and senses year-round,” Undine explained. “It’s a personalised, holistic system that looks at the root causes of imbalance.”
Her practice begins with a personalised consultation to ensure each client receives the most from their therapy. While Ayurveda encompasses everything from diet and herbal medicine to yoga and meditation, Undine’s focus is on body therapies—particularly those that regulate the nervous system.
“I find that calming the nervous system is often the first step toward helping clients shift direction in life,” she said.
Among her specialities are: • Shirodhara – warm oil therapy for nervous system regulation • Pinda Sweda – herbal bag treatment • Bastis – localised treatments for areas like the lower back, neck, and heart
She also incorporates Australian native bush tucker and castor oil leaves into her sessions, enhancing the sensory experience and aiding detoxification.
Some conditions respond to just one session, while others may benefit from longer-term support.
Originally based in Palmwoods, Undine’s Prana Treatment Room is now in Eumundi. She also prepares Ayurvedic meals for local wellness retreats—adding another nourishing layer to her clients’ healing journey.
PRANA TREATMENT ROOM | 16B FARRELL STREET, YANDINA | P 0432 233 055 PRANATREATMENT@GMAIL.COM
