A Day in the Life of a Naturopath at Australia’s Leading Detox Retreat

Hi, I’m Kirsten Sweeney, or as some people say Kirsten the Naturopath, and for the past 10 years I’ve had the privilege of working at Living Valley Health Retreat, Australia’s leading detox and wellness retreat nestled in the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland.

When people ask me what it’s like to work here, I often say: it’s inspiring,

Kirsten The Naturopath

humbling, and life changing not just for our guests, but for me too.

Every week, people arrive at Living Valley Health Retreat carrying all sorts of burdens, stress, exhaustion, gut issues, weight concerns, burnout, or simply the feeling that something is “off.” My role as a naturopath is firstly to individualise their program according to their needs and goals, and then guide them through their detox and healing journey with compassion, education, practical advice, and natural solutions.

I’ve seen incredible transformations. Guests often start the week feeling flat, sluggish, and overwhelmed. But as the detox unfolds through nourishing meals, herbal medicines, treatments, rest, movement, and education they begin to glow again. Their eyes brighten, their energy lifts, and their mindset shifts. Being part of that process never gets old.

One of the highlights of my role as Kirsten Sweeney, the naturopath at Living Valley Health Retreat, is teaching and supporting people beyond their stay. I love equipping guests with knowledge about nutrition, gut health, hormones, stress resilience, and lifestyle choices practical tools they can continue using long after they return home.

I also make it a priority to follow up and keep them on track when they’re back in their everyday lives. There’s nothing more rewarding than receiving a message a year down the track from a past guest saying, “I’m still doing what you taught me, and I feel amazing.” Those moments remind me why I love what I do.

Living Valley Health Retreat is not just about detoxing the body it’s about nurturing the whole person. Every consultation, every talk, and every conversation is rooted in care. Over the years, I’ve shared tears, laughter, and heartfelt breakthroughs with guests from all walks of life. Many arrive as strangers, but leave as friends.

For me, naturopathy is more than a career it’s a calling. Working as a naturopath at Living Valley Health Retreat allows me to combine my passion for natural medicine with my love for helping people live happier, healthier lives. When I walk through the retreat grounds surrounded by lush greenery and fresh mountain air, I feel grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to guide others. Grateful for the chance to witness healing in action. And grateful that I get to do work that truly makes a difference.