My Story

Harriet Paintin: Massage Therapist, Postnatal Doula & Ayurvedic Practitioner

Hi, I’m Harriet — a massage therapist, postnatal doula, and former NHS nurse with a deep belief in the body’s natural capacity to heal when given the right support. My approach is warm, intuitive, and holistic, drawing on a diverse background that weaves together Western medicine, traditional Ayurvedic wisdom, and hands-on experience supporting new parents.

After several years working as a nurse in the NHS, I felt increasingly drawn to a different kind of care — one that honours the connection between body, mind, and environment. I trained in Holistic Massage at City Lit and have since gained further certifications in Deep Tissue and Advanced Massage Techniques. My treatments combine slow, flowing strokes with responsive, targeted pressure to ease tension, regulate the nervous system, and restore balance.

My work is also shaped by my time living in India, where I first encountered Ayurveda in 2009 and went on to study Ayurvedic postnatal care and massage at the School of Ayurveda and Panchakarma in Kerala. I’ve also had the privilege of learning from communities where healing is grounded in nature, tradition, and care that extends beyond the physical. These teachings — from oil massage to seasonal rhythms — continue to guide my personal life and professional practice.

I became a doula after supporting several friends through pregnancy and birth. It quickly became clear to me how vital it is to nurture and hold new parents through this intense transition. I now offer postnatal support, baby massage instruction, and Ayurvedic postnatal nurturing, combining my clinical background with a holistic, person-centred approach that draws from both ancient and modern systems of care.

Since settling in Clapton in 2016, I’ve loved building a life here. When I’m not working, you’ll find me walking in the marshes, playing fiddle at a local Irish session, or up a climbing wall. I believe that healing happens in many forms — through touch, rest, nature, food, movement, and community — and I’m honoured to share that with the people I work with.