Cassie Ryrie is pursuing a long held career goal.
Camera IconCassie Ryrie is pursuing a long held career goal. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Back to Nature Health Foods to close for good

Gabrielle JeffereyWeekend Kwinana Courier

Open for 35 years (16 years for the current owner), Back to Nature Health Foods at the Rockingham City Shopping Centre will close its doors for good on January 27 because of financial pressure.

Loyal staff member of 12 years, Cassie Ryrie, now walks a tentative path.

She found out just after the new year on January 4.

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“I came in for my shift and saw all the discount signs,” she said. “I asked my boss what is going on and that was when he told me; it was like having the rug pulled from underneath you.

“He said ‘I don’t want to do this to you but the financial situation warrants it’. First it was that sinking feeling, then sadness – then panic.

“But then excitement as I realised it was my moment to shine with my massage business. I do feel a bit exhausted though. I think with the loss of a job you need time to grieve.”

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From the age of 12, Cassie had suffered back problems which inspired her to look at massage therapy as a profession. She completed a Diploma in Remedial Massage and Natural Therapies.

She started working at the health food store and her massage business fell to the side. A later diagnosis of Graves Disease also put the brakes on her plans.

Now in recovery from an operation she is healthier and happier.

“A healthy body, mind and spirit are so important as you need them to give to others,” she said.

In the end a couple of regular customers encouraged her to not give up.

“I met my yoga teacher, Sang Mauger and life coach Dayan Garcia through the store.

“With the store closing both inspired me to get my massage business up and running.

She said her business is strictly professional with a focus on deep tissue, remedial, trigger point and aromatherapy.

For more information visit her Facebook page Cassie Ryrie Massage Therapist.