Annette Lightheart is a passionate advocate for holistic healing, blending the wisdom of Ayurveda, herbal medicine, and mindful living to help others restore balance and vitality. She is the founder of Shakti and Sage, a wellness practice that offers Ayurvedic consultations, personalized wellness programs, and seasonal workshops focused on digestive health, stress management, and herbal remedies. She is also the co-founder of Soul Sister Botanicals, a small-batch apothecary dedicated to handcrafting high-quality herbal teas, remedies, and self-care products inspired by nature and traditional healing wisdom.

Through both ventures, Annette empowers others to embrace natural healing, offering practical tools and soulful guidance for well-being.

Annette’s journey into Ayurveda began with her own health struggles. For years, she suffered from severe digestive issues that impacted her daily life, leaving her overwhelmed by anxiety and stress. After experiencing her first panic attack, she knew she had to make a change. Her search for healing led her to Ayurveda—a system that not only addressed her symptoms but also uncovered the root causes of her imbalances. Through Ayurvedic practices, nourishing foods, and natural remedies, she transformed her health and reclaimed her vitality. Now, she is dedicated to guiding others on their own healing journeys, helping them find balance, restore energy, and embrace a life of well-being.

Annette studied with the Joyful Belly School of Ayurveda, earning certifications in Fundamentals of Ayurvedic Medicine: Ayurveda Health Counsellor and Advanced Strategies, Formulas, and Pharmacology: Ayurvedic Herbalist. She deepened her understanding of food as medicine through certification in Ayurveda Integrated Nutrition from VedaWise and also completed the Teacher Within Yoga Teacher Training Program, receiving her Yoga Teacher certification through Whispering Winds.

Her approach integrates Ayurvedic wisdom, herbal formulations, and mindful movement, helping clients create sustainable health through daily practices and lifestyle shifts.

Annette offers virtual one-on-one consultations, customized herbal formulations, and seasonal workshops and retreats, supporting women in prioritizing their health and embracing holistic solutions for well-being. Whether seeking digestive support, stress relief, or personalized wellness strategies, she provides expert guidance to help clients feel balanced, vibrant, and thriving.

Her passion for holistic wellness extends into her upcoming book, For the Love of Tea: A Journey Through 12 Herbs for Ultimate Wellness and Vitality, which was released on Amazon in April 2025. More than just a guide to tea, this book is an invitation to embrace a lifestyle of mindfulness, self-care, and connection—to nature, to wellness, and to oneself.

At the core of Annette’s philosophy is the belief that true wellness comes from harmonizing with nature and tuning into the body’s innate wisdom. She sees healing as a journey of self-discovery, where small, intentional choices—nourishing foods, mindful movement, herbal support, and daily rituals—lead to lasting transformation. She encourages a deep connection with the rhythms of the seasons and a respect for the healing gifts of the earth, empowering others to cultivate balance, vitality, and joy in their daily lives.

In addition to her work in Ayurveda and herbal medicine, Annette volunteers at the South Georgian Bay Community Health Centre, where she leads presentations on Better Sleep, Intuitive Tea Workshops, Self-Care Workshops, and Yoga, sharing her knowledge and passion for holistic wellness with the community.

Through her work, Annette continues to inspire and support others in their journey toward better health, deeper connection, and a more vibrant, balanced life.