Sponsored: Healing body, mind and spirit

With two decades of holistic healing behind her, Shamballa Reiki Master and owner of Heavens Above in Blenheim, Darlene Keenan has created a sanctuary, a place where emotional wounds are tended, grief is softened, and wellbeing is gently restored. Before founding Heavens Above, Darlene spent over 20 years in Sydney working with at-risk youth, earning national recognition for her community work. After returning to Aotearoa to support her mother, she felt called to create a healing space anchored in spirituality. Inspired by her mother, who named the business, Darlene combined her love of energy work, crystals, and intuitive healing to support others in body, mind, and spirit. As she celebrates 20 years in business, Darlene shares with Marlborough Magazine the insights, patterns, and healing practices that continue to guide her work.

Why more people are turning to Reiki and energy healing?

Reiki, a traditional Japanese technique, involves hands-on healing that supports the body’s natural ability to repair and rebalance. Since the pandemic I have noticed a steady increase in people seeking alternative healing therapies, particularly those dealing with lingering grief, burnout, anxiety, or disconnection. I see people carrying a lot of heaviness, from grief and loss, to financial stress, uncertainty, and even a kind of hopelessness. The results from Reiki can be profound. I’ve seen everything from emotional breakthroughs to physical recovery, including tumours shrinking, fertility returning, and people bouncing back after surgery or chemotherapy with renewed strength and spirit.

Crystals, children and emotional healing: Children are often highly responsive to Reiki. They’re naturally curious and drawn to the energy of crystals. Crystals hold their own frequency, and some are particularly helpful for emotional healing, especially around the heart. They can ease feelings of exclusion, anxiety or bullying, whether they’re worn, held, or infused in water. I regularly recommend specific crystals based on a person’s emotional or physical state, offering gentle tools to support balance and wellbeing at any age.

Community listening and collective care: I hear the real-life struggles people are facing, stories of job loss, unaffordable living costs, mental health gaps, and exhaustion. People feel safe to speak openly here. It’s clear that many are feeling isolated, unheard, or let down by systems. Just being able to share their truth is part of the healing.

Meditation and mindfulness for the everyday: For those feeling overwhelmed, my advice is to ground yourself: get outside, breathe, connect with the natural world. Whether it’s a walk by the sea, time in the bush, or something creative, anything that brings joy can help reset the nervous system.

As she marks 20 years of Heavens Above, Darlene’s gratitude is clear. “This work is deeply humbling. I’ve been privileged to witness transformation and resilience in so many forms. And I truly believe when people feel heard, held and healed, they shine again.” Heavens Above continues to offer weekly guided meditation with discounts for Gold Card holders, Grey Power members, and children.

03 579 1032 | 91 Weld St, Redwoodtown, Blenheim 7271