AN Essex menopause practitioner has been honoured with a regional award for her work.
Julie Saunders was named Holistic Therapist of the Year – Essex in the London and South East England Prestige Awards 2026/27.
A trained nurse and complementary therapist, Julie supports women through menopause with a personalised, holistic approach.
Julie, who works from The Wellness Room in St Lawrence Bay, said: "I feel humbled and grateful to receive this award.
"My dream was to create a space where women can step away from everyday pressures, feel safe and simply pause.
"Whether a woman comes for menopause support or a holistic treatment, I want her to feel heard, cared for and never rushed.
"If she needs to talk, switch off or even have a little cry, there is space for that.
"The lovely ladies who have supported me over the past four years helped make The Wellness Room what it is today, and I would not be here without them."
She began her career in complementary therapies in the early 2000s before moving into nursing to broaden her understanding of the body.
After opening The Wellness Room in 2022, she noticed some clients were describing changes they had not linked to perimenopause or menopause.
In response, she trained as a Menopause Lifestyle Practitioner to better support them.
Her one-to-one menopause sessions are designed to be calm, unrushed and tailored to each individual.
She encourages women to explore realistic lifestyle changes that fit around daily life.
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Alongside menopause support, Julie also offers holistic treatments to women of all ages.
Lymph drainage massage is currently in high demand, with every appointment also including time to pause, settle and switch off.
Clients can access Julie's services in person at The Wellness Room or remotely from virtually anywhere.
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