ABOUT HEATHER
LEARN MORE ABOUT MY PERSONAL JOURNEY
My Background
I began my career with a first class honours degree from the University of Edinburgh in Physiology (the systems of the body) and have spent 20 years working within the clinical research world helping to bring novel treatments in neurology, oncology, cardiology, rare genetic indications amongst others to market and mentoring busy teams.
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Throughout my 20 years working within global clinical research, I have led clinical trial research projects within oncology and mental health at various organizations. After beginning my career in the UK, I lived in Seattle, USA for four years travelling extensively across the USA overseeing clinical trials as a clinical research associate at major oncology research centers ensuring safety and robust data collection processes for patients receiving investigational medicinal product.
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A personal Pluto return (transformation!) and further studies since 2015 in psychology, yoga, qi gong, reiki and nature based therapeutics have reinforced the necessity for a person centred approach for full body, mind and spiritual health.
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I have been practising yoga since 2008 beginning in Seattle, USA, leading sessions on both sides of the Atlantic, completing teacher trainer qualification with the Classical Yoga School and further 500 hours training with Yogi Kaivalyananda. ​​​
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Motivated by a desire to gain a deeper understanding of psychology and how it can impact our physical health, I completed a master’s degree in Psychological Sciences specializing in Clinical Psychology in 2021 at the University of Glasgow. As part of this degree, I completed my dissertation ‘Exploring the Salutogenic Infuence of Active Woodland Yoga Retreats Post COVID-19’ with a group of healthcare stakeholders (pending publication with Frontiers in Psychology, 2025).
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I offer a combination of somatic-based therapy, mindfulness, compassion-based and nature-based therapy for bespoke approaches in the retreats, research and educational services that I offer.
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My extensive research and commercial background demonstrate a unique all-encompassing exposure to clinical, commercial and more holistic, integrative environments. Whilst polarity and confict between these two sectors exists, they share a common goal to improve human health for everyone.
"I utilise a 6-step body, mind and spirit map to help you embody your insights and realise your vision"
Saorsa
I have provided mentorship of business leaders, managers and researchers over the last 18 years to positively infuence clinical project outcomes, quality, and timelines. I have implemented global project management training processes at ClinTec, Caritas and Clinicology to support business growth and efciencies managing and mentoring teams of over 150. Since 2016, I began developing Saorsa, providing education on mental and physical health delivered in group workshops, and in collaboration with others within health and education. In recent years, my work with health care providers, charity and company directors and educators has helped bring new patient centered research pathways and community health initiatives that serve to improve the well-being of others. empowerment and liberation bringing positive transformation into the lives of my clients. I run virtual and in person courses and retreats throughout Scotland and beyond collaborating with other great teachers, hosts and outdoors enthusiasts.
For more details on the 1-2-1, group and online mentorship services that I provide, click message below or email me heather@heathergwenbird.com.
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Drop me a message below if you have any questions.
Namaste, Heather