FROM NUTRITION AND FITNESS TO MENTAL WELL-BEING, OUR PANEL OF LOCAL EXPERTS TELL US WHAT THEY OFFER TO HELP YOU LIVE YOUR HEALTHIEST LIFE.
LIANCA DOOKRAN – Physiotherapist
Lianca Dookran Physiotherapy celebrates 13 years in Ballito this year. The team is dedicated to helping people move better. They provide evidence-based care and have proudly been named Best of Ballito for the past three years. They focus on optimising health, movement, and sports injury recovery. Lianca’s top physio tip? To prevent injuries, try incorporating dynamic stretches before exercise and static stretches after. This will improve flexibility, warm up muscles, and reduce post-workout soreness. Keep stretching and stay active! Details: Regency House, Ballito; 032 586 3240. Book online at https://calendly.com/lianca-physio/1hour).
MANIFEST YOGA STUDIO
At Manifest Yoga Studio, the team envisions a vibrant community where individuals are empowered to manifest their best selves through the transformative power of yoga. They’ve created this space with the intention to manifest a yoga community that is inclusive and welcoming. They believe that yoga is for everyone and has been and always will be an invaluable tool for self-discovery, wellness and vitality and a way to cope in our modern-day life. Manifest is a sanctuary where mindfulness meets movement with yoga classes crafted to not only strengthen the body but also nurture the mind, promoting holistic wellbeing. Details: 23 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga, www.manifestyoga.co.za,
IG: @manifestyogastudio; FB: manifestyogastudiozn
MARISKA MARAIS – Optometrist
Mariska Marais, owner of two optometry stores, has spent the last 19 years mastering the art of creating eye care solutions for today’s fast-paced, digitally demanding lifestyle. She takes time to guide her patients through the whole process of eye testing, examining the health of the eye and finally choosing frames that complement their unique personalities. She has a special interest in fitting contact lenses for high powered prescriptions and the more challenging presbiopic (older than 40) patients. Through regular eye tests, she can detect underlying health issues like high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, stress and much more.
Details: Optom by the Sea, Umdloti; Windermere Optometrists, Morningside; 031 312 7004; WhatsApp 072 727 6276; IG: @optom_by_the_sea
DR CEBI SIBISI – Dermotologist
Dr Cebi Sibisi is a qualified dermatologist based in Umhlanga, dedicated to making expert skincare accessible and revolutionising the dermatology and skincare industry. She has extensive experience in managing acne, eczema, pigmentation disorders, hair loss, skin cancer, and non-invasive skin rejuvenation. Passionate about education, she serves as a sessional consultant in the state sector, mentoring future dermatologists. Whether addressing medical, cosmetic, paediatric, or surgical dermatology needs, Dr Cebi provides science-based, exceptional care. She provides expert, personalised care for each client’s unique skin concerns, helping them achieve healthy skin and radiate confidence through tailored treatments.
Details: Suite 2, Medigate Medical Centre 2, Umhlanga; www.drcebidermatology.co.za;
031 566 4748; 072 579 6240; info@drcebidermatology.co.za;
IG: @drcebi_skindoc; FB: drcebiskindoc
DR LE-JEAN EHLERS -Aesthetic Practitioner
Dr Le-Jean Ehlers is a medical doctor with a special interest in aesthetic medicine, dedicated to helping patients look and feel their best. With a passion for cosmetic dermatology, she specialises in injectable skin treatments that restore a youthful, radiant glow. Her expertise extends to non-invasive cosmetic gynaecology and intimate health solutions, providing women with innovative treatments to enhance confidence and well- being. Combining medical precision with an artistic approach, Dr Le-Jean tailors each treatment to the unique needs of her patients, ensuring natural, beautiful results that reflect both inner and outer vitality. Details: Level 4, The Pearls Mall, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga; 087 806 8700; www.aestheticoptions.co.za; IG:@aestheticoptionsza; FB: Aesthetic Options
DR FRANCOIS EHLERS -Aesthetic Practitioner
Dr Francois Ehlers, a Stellenbosch University graduate, holds postgraduate qualifications in emergency medicine and advanced aesthetic medicine, and is an enrolled fellow with the Institute of Integrative Medicine. A national trainer for dermal fillers, he has trained under renowned experts in aesthetic medicine, plastic surgery, and regenerative medicine. His expertise includes full facial rejuvenation, advanced dermal filler treatments, medical weight loss, body sculpting, men’s sexual health, hormone replacement, peptide therapy, and sports performance enhancement. Passionate about a holistic, individualised approach, he integrates functional and aesthetic medicine.
Details: Level 4, The Pearls Mall, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga; 087 806 8700; www.aestheticoptions.co.za; IG:@aestheticoptionsza; FB: Aesthetic Options
DR VINCENT EHLERS – Hair Transplant Surgeon
Dr Vincent Ehlers is a leading expert in hair restoration surgery and aesthetic medicine, combining his surgical background with training from renowned local and international practitioners. A diplomat of The American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine and a regional trainer for neurotoxin and dermal fillers, he has also earned a Master’s in Hair Transplant and Restoration Management. Specialising in facial aesthetics, including profile balancing and non-surgical rhinoplasty, he performs hair transplants using FUE alongside advanced medical hair restoration techniques.
Details: Level 4, The Pearls Mall, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga; 087 806 8700; www.aestheticoptions.co.za; IG:@aestheticoptionsza; FB: Aesthetic Options
DR ROBYN BOWDEN – General Practitioner
Dr Robyn Bowden is a postgraduate physiotherapist who transitioned into medicine and now practices as a general practitioner. With a patient-centered approach to healthcare, she enjoys treating individuals of all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Her background in physiotherapy has significantly enhanced her expertise in managing chronic joint and back pain, musculoskeletal injuries, and neurological rehabilitation. Known for her approachable and compassionate nature, Dr Bowden is dedicated to delivering holistic healthcare at the primary care level. She also strongly values the role of the allied health team in providing comprehensive care. Details: Level 3A, The Pearls Mall, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga;
www.pearlsmed.co.za; 086 155 5111; IG: @pearlsmed; FB: PearlsMED
DR JEANIE VAN DER MERWE – Paediatrician
Dr Jeanie van der Merwe is a dedicated paediatric doctor known for her compassionate and patient-centred approach to child healthcare. She graduated from the University of Pretoria and has worked exclusively in paediatrics since 2015, entering specialisation training in 2020. After four years of specialisation, she was awarded her fellowship with distinction. She is currently in the process of completing her research component of her specialisation, a Masters of Medicine in Paediatric Health, after which she will register as a Specialist Paediatrician. Details: Level 3A, The Pearls Mall, 6 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga; 086 155 5111;
www.pearlsmed.co.za; IG: @pearlsmed; FB: PearlsMED
