Ark Wellness

Ark Wellness was founded by Justin Stiffler in 2015, after being in practice as an Acupuncturist for 7 years. Justin’s love for people and desire to positively impact the world around him, brought him to Oak Island that same year to join other Wellness Practitioners at Hearts & Sol Wellness. The Oak Island & surrounding community was eager for the medicine he provides, based in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and welcomed him with open arms and hearts. Within a short time, his practice at Hearts & Sol Wellness grew into a full time practice. Spanning a wide range of issues, such as chronic pain, acute injury, anxiety, sleep disorders, hormonal imbalance, and diabetes, he has helped many patients through acupuncture, nutrition & lifestyle counseling, and herbal medicine.

In early 2016, Justin began working in conjunction with fellow practitioner at Hearts & Sol, Amanda Joy. As a Licensed Massage & Bodywork Therapist and Certified Personal Trainer, Amanda assists clients in repatterning distorted postural patterns that can accompany chronic pain, long term illness, and recovery from injury or surgery. Together they are able to effect long lasting results with immediate relief. With over a decade of experience and hundreds of hours of continuing education, Amanda provides a level of skill and technique that dovetails perfectly into Justin’s treatment paradigm. Trained in western herbalism, Amanda also handcrafts natural bodycare products and maintains an Artisanal Apothecary.

Patient education is a passion of both Justin & Amanda’s. They strive to empower their clients with knowledge as they work alongside them in a supportive capacity to create change and build health. They seek optimal wellness as individuals, always working towards a healthier state of being. As such, they understand the challenges that can accompany healthy living in an unhealthy world, and are able to provide solutions and support so that your efforts towards wellness will not be thwarted by frustration. Wellness is a lifestyle choice, not a quick fix in times of sickness.

In October 2016, Ark Wellness will be growing into a larger office space as well as expanding our offerings. Leah McGhee, Nail Technician, will be joining the Ark Wellness team to provide natural nail care. Offering energy based pedicures, non-toxic vegan polish options, and reflexology, Leah contributes a spark of energy like a ray of sunshine to Ark Wellness. She is HeartMath and Reiki certified, loved by her clients, and is a bright spot in any day. We will be weaving many of our services together to create healing experiences, in a non-toxic, eco-friendly Green Spa environment.

By definition, an ark is “something that affords protection or safety”. At Ark Wellness, our motto is “Protecting the health you have, building the health you want.” We understand that small steps can create great impact. In fact, the name Ark Wellness was inspired by Justin’s niece, Adelaide Rose Koskowski. Addy’s life lasted a short 27 days on this Earth plane, but continually serves as a reminder that regardless of how small, fragile or short life is, it is full of impact. May our lives and our work have a positive impact on all of life around us. Infinite Love & Gratitude.