I’m Nicola, and I’m the founder of Keelhealings in Albufeira, Portugal. I’m originally from the Midlands in the UK and have lived in Portugal for over four years.

 

My work is about creating a safe, calm space for people who are carrying stress, trauma, or emotional overwhelm — somewhere they can slow down, feel supported, and begin to release what their body is holding.

 

Before moving into holistic work, I spent 25 years working in childcare and residential care, supporting children with trauma, behavioural challenges, and additional needs. I worked closely with therapists and social workers and later held senior roles within residential care. That experience shaped how I work today — with patience, care, boundaries, and a strong understanding of emotional safety.

 

Alongside this background, I’m a Certified Reiki Master Teacher, a 200-hour qualified Yoga Teacher, and a Holistic Massage Therapist, trained in Indian Head and Full Body Massage. I also work with sound healing, tarot, coaching, cacao ceremonies, retreats, and Reiki training — using whatever feels most supportive for the person in front of me.

 

My own life experiences led me to want to understand myself more deeply — my mind, my patterns, my triggers — and how healing actually happens when someone feels safe. I chose not to let those experiences define me, but to learn from them and grow.

 

Everything I offer comes from that place.

There’s no pressure, no fixing, and no expectation to be any certain way.

Just a supportive space where you can be yourself and take things at your own pace.