Wellness and Wandsworth are just two words that feel like they belong together, don’t they? As well as being a nice alliteration, Wandsworth has an extraordinary number of amazing businesses offering residents and visitors the opportunity for self-improvement and peace of mind. And, in this day and age, what could be more perfect?
So, with that in mind, we caught up with Karla, founder of Nature Heals in Southfields, to find out more about her journey to launch a business in SW London and why we shouldn’t fear the needle.
What first inspired you to train in acupuncture, and how did Nature Heals begin?
I’ve always been fascinated by the body’s innate intelligence and its ability to heal when given the right support. My journey began over 20 years ago with a deep desire to find a way of healing that didn’t just mask symptoms but looked at the whole person, mind and body. Nature Heals was born from that vision. To create a simple, supportive, and stress-free sanctuary in London where people, especially women navigating the complex world of fertility and hormonal health, could feel truly heard and cared for.
For someone who’s never tried acupuncture before, what can they expect from their first session at Nature Heals?
First, take a deep breath, you’re in safe hands! We start with a very thorough, friendly chat about your health, lifestyle, and goals. It’s not just about where the needles go; it’s about understanding your unique story. The treatment itself is incredibly gentle. Most of my clients are surprised by how relaxing it is, many actually drift off into a “nappuncture” sleep! You’ll leave feeling deeply relaxed, with a clear, personalised plan for your path forward.
What are the most common issues you see clients coming to you for in Wandsworth?
At our Southfields clinic, we see a lot of women seeking support for fertility journeys, whether they are trying to conceive naturally or preparing for IVF. Conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and “unexplained infertility” are very common. However, being in the heart of Wandsworth, we also see many busy professionals and parents struggling with “the London pace” – high stress, anxiety, poor sleep, and the classic desk-bound back pain.
There are still a lot of myths around acupuncture — what’s the biggest misconception you’d love to clear up?
The biggest one is definitely that it’s painful! People hear “needles” and think of injections or blood tests, but acupuncture needles are actually as thin as a strand of hair. It’s a completely different sensation, more like a dull tingle or a heavy, relaxing wave. Another myth is that it’s “woo-woo.” In reality, we use it to stimulate biochemical responses, reduce inflammation, and balance hormones, often alongside modern science-backed therapies like Low-Level Laser Therapy.
How do you combine traditional Chinese medicine principles with modern lifestyles and stress levels?
We don’t live the same way people did thousands of years ago, so our treatments have to adapt. I combine traditional hands-on wisdom, like acupuncture and Mayan Womb Massage, with modern tools like the Metabolic Balance nutrition program and FDA-cleared Laser therapy. It’s about “taming cortisol” for the modern Londoner. We use these ancient principles to reset the nervous system so the body can handle today’s high-stress environment without burning out.
Have you seen any particularly memorable or transformative client journeys?
The most moving journeys are often the ones where a patient arrives feeling completely hopeless after years of fertility challenges. Seeing that transition from high-stress and “medicalised” conception to a place of empowerment and eventually holding their baby is a miracle every single time. I also love seeing the transformation in people with chronic pain or anxiety who have “tried everything” and finally find a sense of peace and physical freedom through our holistic approach.
How does being based in Wandsworth shape your practice and the community you serve?
Wandsworth has such a wonderful, vibrant “village” feel. My practice is shaped by the community’s focus on health, family, and natural living. We aren’t just a clinic , we’re a local haven. I love that I can support a woman through her fertility journey, then her pregnancy, and eventually see her back for general wellness or to help a partner with back pain. It’s about building long-term relationships within the community.
If someone reading this is curious but nervous, what would you say to encourage them to give acupuncture a try?
I’d say listen to your body. If you’re feeling out of balance, stressed, or stuck, this is a gift you can give yourself. You don’t need to be “brave” to try acupuncture, you just need to be curious. We are here to support you at your own pace, and if needles really aren’t for you, we have other incredible therapies like reflexology or laser. Come in for a chat, and let’s see how we can help you feel like yourself again.
