“'The 6 week postnatal physiolates classes with Deborah exceeded my expectations. Her lively and enthusiastic approach to teaching the classes makes them highly enjoyable. Deborah’s professionalism and great ability to clearly communicate exactly what each exercise requires maximises the impact of the class. In addition, the ongoing feedback Deborah provides throughout the class is tailored to your needs. The lower back pain that I was experiencing post pregnancy is now dramatically reduced. I hope to continue to train with Body Elements" Lynda

“I did both the pre and postnatal physiolates courses during and after my pregnancy with my first child.  Over the years I have experienced quite a few problems with my back and have had countless visits with a chiropractor, osteopath and deep tissue massage therapist.  My concerns as to how my back would hold out throughout pregnancy, given my history, were understandable.  I decided to take a proactive approach to my wellbeing during pregnancy by signing up for the prenatal classes with Debbie.  The attention I paid to my posture throughout the nine months and beyond, thanks to the classes, kept me pain free.  I have no doubt at all that it was thanks to the physiolates courses that I did that kept my pelvis and back in good health throughout my pregnancy. “ Amanda

“I have attended both Deborah’s pre and post natal Pilates and have found both courses really excellent! Deborah provides great exercises to help you cope with the physical demands of being pregnant, as well as a huge amount of information on your pregnancy, birth and when your baby arrives home, so you feel prepared both mentally and physically. Having such a highly qualified instructor is hugely reassuring, and you feel that both you and your baby are in very safe hands. In my final trimester, I attended the Holles street pre-natal course, and I was really pleased to note that I had been practising for months the exercises they recommended. Throughout that course my husband kept commenting “you’ve been doing that for ages!” and he was really happy to know that I was doing both the best for myself and the baby. Now, on the post natal course, I am seeing real results and I feel that I am doing my best to avoid any future problems if I was to have another baby. I would not hesitate in recommending Deborah’s courses and would strongly advise anyone who takes their & their babies health and wellbeing seriously to go." Tanya O’Higgins -  Microsoft

“I cannot commend highly enough Deborah’s prenatal physiolates. I would be lost without these classes!! As the name suggests, this is a pilates class with a difference. Because Deborah is a qualified physiotherapist specialising in womens health, she knows exactly the exercises that should be done to optimise the health benefits during a pregnancy. I have attended these classes on both of my pregnancies and have found them to be essential in terms of helping me manage the various ‘aches and pains’ that go hand in hand with pregnancy. I have suffered from back pain in both pregnancies but as the pregnancies have progressed and once I start attending Deborah’s classes, this pain is alleviated and now at 8 months pregnant I have no back pain. I also suffer from SPD or Pelvic Girdle Pain but Deborah knows how to manage this and customizes the exercises so that I am comfortable. If anything, my spd has been made more manageable by attending these classes. Overall, I could not have survived either pregnancy without attending these classes, they have saved my numerous trips to the physio!! On the basis that the prenatal physiolates classes that I attended run by Deborah were so excellent, I also signed up for postnatal. Again, I cannot commend highly enough these classes in terms of the health benefits they offer. Each course of 8 classes is accompanied by a pre-assessment and post-assessment at which Deborah examines the abdominal muscles. After one course of classes my muscles had gone back to my pre-pregnancy state. These classes also helped me manage back pain which is a common ailment of new mums. They also stood me in good stead for embarking on my second pregnancy as I had built up my core muscles. I will definitely be signing up for these again after baby no. 2 and look forward to getting my pre-pregnancy shape back again!” Marie, Bray, Co. Wicklow

“I suffer from pelvic girdle pain where due to pregnancy hormones my ligaments stretch and my pelvis comes out of place. This has been ongoing during my two pregnancies and in between. I have seen many physiotherapists and consultants over the last 4 years and the only thing that appears to keep my pelvis stable and therefore comfortable was the Physiolates class (supplemented with some physio) given by Deborah of Body Elements. This class gave me valuable ongoing advice about posture, pelvic floor muscles, building core strength and many other tips which will stay with me forever. The classes are brilliant in that they are specifically tailored for pre and post natal women who are so vulnerable during this time. My second pregnancy was far easier on my pelvis due to these classes and also my stomach muscles far stronger which helped me get in shape quicker. I recommend these classes to every pregnant woman as they will save themselves a lot of unnecessary pregnancy stresses and will recover much faster afterwards. The classes should definitely be covered under health insurance to make them accessible to everyone and it makes so much sense as it is an investment in one’s health and will prevent all sorts of pregnancy complications. Every woman deserves to have the easiest pregnancy and delivery possible and the Physiolates classes are crucial to provide this. Deborah also gave lots of advice about pregnancy symptoms, delivery and carrying babies afterwards. She is a lovely woman who genuinely cares about each pregnant client.” Sinead, Co. Wicklow

“I have attended Antenatal Physiolates with Deborah since the second trimester to the end of my pregnancy. I firmly believe this regular targeted excersice helped me to prevent possible back problems usually associated with pregnancy. Through the whole duration of my pregnancy I have not had any back pains at all; nor I have experienced swellings of my limbs. After giving birth it took me very short time to recover and I really appreciated that I kept myself fit. Although we were instructed to excersize at home as well, I have to admit nothing could compare to be part of a group and being led by specialized physiotherapist. I have thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and the information given to me by Deborah and I am already looking forward to join her postnatal classes.” Ali

"I attended 2 courses of Antenatal Physiolates with Deborah and felt that I could manage my pregnancy much better with the tools that Deborah provided. I suffered with lower back pain with my pregnancy, but was able to keep it and the rest of my body in good working order by attending regular Antenatal Physiolates courses with a qualified physiotherapist who specialises in female care. I can testify to the health benefits that all pregnant women gain from attending such classes in order to stave off any muscle and joint pain during and after pregnancy." Ann Flavin

"I am attending my second course of physiolates classes with Deborah and find the classes excellent. As a chartered physiotherapist myself, I even find great benefits from attending these classes. Along with the emphasis on good posture throughout pregnancy and while carrying out exercises in the class, I particularly liked the incorporation of antenatal education and tips throughout the classes on very relevant matters such as natural pain relief and positions/breathing in labour. The fact that this is all carried out in a very relaxed and comfortable environment helped greatly also. I will be back for the postnatal classes for sure!" Elaine Mc Auley, Chartered Physiotherapist

“I attended two courses for Physiolates with Deborah, starting from the second trimester of my pregnancy. It is my first pregnancy and didn’t know anything regarding it, but with Deborah I learned a lot of things I should know, more over she focus her attention in every person and made me feel I was doing  the correct exercises with the correct person, it made me feel save for myself and for my baby. Doing one hour of exercises per week with Deborah and practising at home the exercises she advice to do, I am having a very quiet and enjoyable pregnancy, with no pains in no parts of my body. In addition, as I am working during the day and housekeeping at home after work I thought I had no time to do any exercises at all, but thinking I am the only responsible for the health of my baby, I joined two courses of Physiolates for just one hour per week, during this hour I completely forgot what happen outside around the world, and I was completely relaxed and I enjoyed that time that was FOR ME AND MY BABY ONLY! For my point of view, this course is indispensable for every pregnant woman, because it gives a lot of information regarding pregnancy, you learn to take care of your body while it is changing, and the more important thing is that you workout with a person that has a special degree on woman health, so you are safe and creating energies for the BIG DAY and for the future.” Tania Castillo

"Over the years I have experienced quite a few problems with my back and have had countless visits with a chiropractor, osteopath and deep tissue massage therapist. My concerns as to how my back would hold out throughout pregnancy, given my history, were understandable. I decided to take a proactive approach to my wellbeing during pregnancy by signing up for the Antenatal Physiolates classes with Debbie. The attention I paid to my posture throughout the nine months and beyond, thanks to the classes, kept me pain free. I have no doubt at all that it was thanks to the Physiolates courses that I did that kept my pelvis and back in good health throughout my pregnancy." Amanda

“As a healthcare professional I knew it was important to prepare my body as much as possible for the birth and to prevent pain during and after the pregnancy. Doing the prenatal Pilates course with debra meant that not only did I get the best physical preparation but I also got personal attention from Debra and was not just another pregnant woman I also got to meet other pregnant women which as a 1st time mum was great. My pelvic floor is like I never even had a baby and I put this 100% down to the class I did with Debra I would highly recommend her.” Emma

“Early in my pregnancy I experienced lower back pain due to weak abdominal muscles. A physio advised me to enrol in a pre-natal pilates course taught specificallhy by a physiotherapist. She said it was possible I would have to wear a maternity belt later on in pregnancy. At 16 weeks I began attending Deborah's physiolates class and continued attending throughout my pregnancy. I also attended the clinic for preventative physio therapy - this was to relieve the tension in my lower back that could lead to pain if left untreated. I am happy to report that through the pilates and physiotherapy that I didn't need to wear a maternity belt and was fit and mobile throughout my pregnancy, even at the very end. My son was born by c-section and I found that the awareness of my posture and the core strength I gained through the physiolates course helped me to control my movements and avoid pain during the recovery from the operation. Deborah's classes are both highly educational and fun, and have been invaluable to me over the period of my pregnancy and beyond.” Sarah

"I found a wonderful lady called Deborah Fernandes who performs a treatment called manual lymphatic drainage or MLD. This is like a very gentle massage, which essentially moves the lymphatic fluid and keeps it flowing freely. Deborah is a chartered physiotherapist and has many years' training in oncology treatment. She studied this specific type of MLD under a man called Professor Leduc. I would receommend MLD to anyone who has had a mastectomy. But I would make sure the person is a chartered physiotherapist and obviously check with your oncologist first."- Emma Hannigan

"My name is Rita, and I was diagnosed with breast cancer August 2009. I had a mastectomy and complete axiliary clearance. Several months post-operation I began to suffer with lymphedema, which is a very painful condition that requires manual lymph drainage. I was referred to a specialist clinic in The Beacon Hospital for this procedure. This clinic was unfortunately closed down in December 2010 and left patients like me with nowhere else to turn for this necessary procedure. I contacted numerous physiotherapists and actually tried one, but they were unaware of the correct techniques required. My condition was getting progressively worse and I was getting really frustrated. I happened to be given a present of a book by Emma Hannigan, a cancer survivor who shared her story. She too shared the lymphedema problem, but she found someone and recommended them in the book. Her name is Deborah Fernandes and her clinic is called Body Elements. In desperation I contacted Deborah and she gave me an immediate appointment. It was a revelation. Deborah is an angel, and is properly trained in the art of manual lymph drainage. I would highly recommend that anyone who suffers from lymphedema should contact Deborah, it will transform your life, as it has mine."- Rita.

My name is Jana and I was born with primary lymphoedema. After moving to Dublin, I was delighted to find the Body Elements clinic that offers lymphatic manual drainage carried out by a professional Chartered Physiotherapist Deborah Fernandes who was trained by Professor LeDuc personally, has many years experience in lymphoedema management and is always keeping up with new developments in lymphology research and treatment. The regular manual lymphatic drainage that Body Elements performs on me has helped keeping my swellings under control and I have almost forgotten what it is like to have a tight feeling around my ankles.

If you suffer from any type of swellings and you are looking for efficient, top class treatment, contact Body Elements today.Jana - Dublin

“As a first time Dad I thought this was very informative and educational. It makes me feel more confident in helping my partner through both pregnancy and labour.”

“Very beneficial for father to be + educational”

“An excellent evening for both Mom & Dad to learn for each other how to help each other during both pregnancy and labour. The group environment is brilliant as it allows information to be raised from others through the group and people ask questions which you may not have thought of but are well answered by information and opinions.”

“Very enjoyable and educational. I really enjoyed my time at Deborah’s classes. She showed me many important techniques that every pregnant woman should know!”

“Very informative- Has really taught my husband how to be constructively involved. Deborah has been excellent, very knowledgeable and dedicated. I have learnt so much from doing the course”

“I found the antenatal course to be very useful. I feel well equipped with techniques to make my labour as enjoyable an experience as possible. Thank you.”

“ Just for focusing on what Dad can do to help a little bit”

I first attended Deborah at Body Elements at seven weeks pregnant. I had major back surgery in  January 2010 and although it did alleviate some of the problems I was never without back ache and relied on very strong pain
killers to get through the days.

I couldn't wait to conceive again but I was dreading going through nine months of back pain and not being able to take anything for it. As soon as  I found out the good news that I was expecting again I immediately stopped taking pain medication and was referred to a pain specialist.

The neurosurgeon who operated on me felt that I would possibly require an epidural injection to relieve the pain during the pregnancy.

While waiting for the pain specialist appointment a friend put me in touch with Deborah at Body Elements. Within four weeks of attending Body Elements I was practically pain free. I really could not get over the difference. I think the difference with Deborah was she took my whole  body into account and not just where I was experiencing problems. I completed a four week postural management course to correct the posture I had learned to compensate for the pain which was actually creating pain!

By the time the pain specialist appointment came around I no longer had chronic pain and didn't need any injections. The specialist was also very happy with the outcome of the physiotherapy as he was reluctant to give me an injection while pregnant. I felt that Deborah really cared about my well being as a whole person and really took the time to tailor the exercises to my individual needs.

I continue the exercises at home and attend Body Elements once a month which I feel is keeping the back pain at bay! Deborah is  truly amazing at what she does and I couldn't recommend her highly enough.
Carina, Wexford

I suffered from pelvic pain, on my first pregnancy I needed to give up work at 28 weeks attend physiotherapy where I was given a support belt with very little home care in between sessions. I first met Deborah in 2009 were I attended postnatal pilates supplemented with physio both, mentally and physically this had a huge change on my life, and I was then fit to attend the body harmony classes (with Luis). I have become so much more aware of my body as a result of attending Deborah's classes. Deborah is highly professional whilst also providing alot of laughs in a relaxed environment. When I became pregnant with my second child I was apprehensive of what was ahead of me so I enrolled for the antenatal physiolates programme which provides great exercise tailored to my body and alot of information on pregnancy these classes have allowed me to effectively manage my pelvic pain. I am typing this at 36 weeks pregnant with no support belt and still working which is down to the care and classes offered by Deborah.I can't recommend Deborah highly enough. Thank you for keeping me so well during my pregnancy.- Lynn, Stepaside