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Anahata
Creative Arts & Wellness

Training Courses
Classes - Seminars - Workshops
Sound Healing - Breathwork

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and

the Heart of Healing
the work of Hendrik van der Merwe

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Welcome to Anahata a place and a way of being

Hi, I’m Hendrik (artist name: Zendrik)

I’ve called my home in Wilderness, South Africa, Anahata, the sanscrit word used for the heart chakra, with various meanings, such as unstuck, or unhurt or unharmed, and the sound that is made without something being struck.

It is more than just my home, it’s also a space for transformation, somatic healing, and creative exploration. It’s a place where you can reconnect with your body, your spirit, and your soul’s essence.

A journey with purpose

My path has been anything but conventional. Raised by parents who infused my life with wisdom from Jungian philosophy, fine arts, Zen Buddhism, and a deep commitment to justice and peace, I initially left high school with a passion for law and human rights.

But life had other plans. After national service in the navy, and a year of travel, I turned toward psychology, then sculpture, music, yoga, meditation, and the art and science of energy healing and somatic bodywork.

In 1987, I began studying with my first mentors in somatic healing, and since then, I’ve trained in Thai massage, Chi Nei Tsang and Karsai Nei Tsang, and Reiki. My personal journey has been deeply influenced by Zen and Dzogchen,, Tantra and The Tao, and other teachings of non-duality, as well as the study of Carl Jung’s work. Shamanism and plant allies have played a role in my life.

Over the years, I’ve taught training courses and led retreats around the world—from Mexico to Guatemala, South Africa, Europe, and India. In 2018, I made the decision to return to South Africa, where I’m now building a new chapter in my life and work: Anahata, a holistic healing and creative arts center in the heart of Wilderness.

The Heart of My Work: Healing, Energy, and Transformation

At the core of my work is a deep belief in the power of energy to heal, transform, and restore. Our emotional and mental blockages—often shaped by stress, trauma, bad diet and lack of exercise, and the physical toxins we encounter daily—hold us back from living a good life. Through somatic healing we can release these blockages and restore the flow of vital energy.

Over the past 35 years, I’ve refined my approach, focusing primarily on Chi Nei Tsang—a Taoist abdominal massage that helps release stored toxins and energy from the abdomen, restoring balance to the body’s organs and systems. Alongside this, I integrate other healing modalities like deep tissue massage, Thai massage, Reiki, and emotional counseling, guiding my clients toward both physical and spiritual well-being.

Wellness Beyond the Surface: A Holistic Approach to Healing

For me, wellness is more than just the absence of illness. It’s about thriving—feeling energized, creative, and aligned with your true self. It’s about living in harmony with the energy around you and within you. My work is about helping you connect to your inner power and embrace all that you are.

Whether it’s through yoga, meditation, creativity, or energy work, I believe that the path to wellness is an ongoing journey of self-discovery. Yoga has been a cornerstone of my own persona practice, and I teach classes that emphasize both the inner and outer harmony of posture, breath, and energy.

Join the Journey

If you're ready to explore this path of healing and self-discovery, I invite you to join me. Whether through private sessions, workshops, or retreats, we’ll work together to unlock your true potential and support you in living your most vibrant life.

Check out my blog for insights on health, wellness, and personal growth. And if you're ready to dive deeper into your journey, I’d love to connect with you.

Auroville 2020

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Auroville 2020

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