About Me

My journey into traditional medicine began with an anthropology degree at UCL 30 years ago and culminated in a PhD in mitochondrial biology. Along the way, I studied every practical aspect of Chinese medicine I could — acupuncture, Chinese manual therapy (Tui Na), Tai Chi, and herbal medicine.

What makes my work unique are these two fields of study bookending my academic path. Anthropology taught me to view traditional healing within its cultural and historical context, offering insight into how to interpret the wisdom of ancient medical texts. My PhD research, on the other hand, used cutting-edge science to explore how herbal medicines influence our mitochondria — the tiny powerhouses within our cells that fuel energy, health, and longevity.

Together, these perspectives allow me to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science.

Today, I combine clinical practice, teaching, and research to help people enhance their energy, resilience, and wellbeing through natural, time-tested methods, supported by the latest scientific insights.

Current Clinical Positions

• Since 2011: Owner / Therapist / Clinician
  Steve Woodley Acupuncture & Traditional Medicine
• Since 2023: Locum Practitioner
  Lily Clark Acupuncture

Current Academic Posts

• Since 2026: Certified Peer-Reviewer
  European Journal of Integrative Medicine
• Since 2025: Lead Lecturer: Chinese Herbal Medicine Foundation Course
  UK-Taiwan Academy of Traditional Medicine
• Since 2024: Journal Editor: RCHM Journal
  Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine
• Since 2023: Research Project Supervisor: MSc Chinese Herbal Medicine
  Northern College of Acupuncture
• Since 2022: Research Ethics & Advisory Committee Member: All MSc courses
  Northern College of Acupuncture
• Since 2021: Writer: Chinese Herbal Medicine Monographs and Quality Assessment Techniques
  Herbal Reality

Past Positions

• 2022 - 2025: Research Project Module Leader: MSc Advanced Nutrition, Complementary and Oriental Medicine
  Northern College of Acupuncture
• 2022: Tutor: BSc Human Physiology
  University of Westminster
• 2019: Herbal Dispensary Technician: Chinese and Western Herbal Medicine
  Westminster Polyclinic

Qualifications

• 2024: PhD
  University of Westminster
• 2018: Cert. Clinical Observation
  China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
• 2016: MSc (Distinction): Chinese Herbal Medicine
  University of Westminster
• 2016: Cert. Dispensary & Pharmacognosy Training
  Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine
• 2012: DipTn - Diploma in Tui Na (Chinese massage)
  College of Integrated Chinese Medicine
• 2007: LicAc - Licentiate of Acupuncture
  British Acupuncture Accreditation Board
• 2007: BSc (Hons) Acupuncture
  University of Portsmouth
• 1998: BSc (Hons) Anthropology
  University College London