Lawrence Ellyard: Author, Educator, and Advocate for Complementary Therapies
- Biohack Yourself
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Biohack Yourself JAN 2026

Lawrence Ellyard is a best-selling author, educator, and founder whose work has helped shape the modern landscape of complementary and natural therapies. As the Founder and Chairman of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT) Group, Lawrence has spent more than three decades contributing to the growth, credibility, and global reach of holistic health practices.
With a career rooted in education, spiritual development, and professional advocacy, Lawrence is widely recognized for his role in supporting natural therapy practitioners as they build meaningful, sustainable careers. His work reflects a long-standing commitment to elevating both individuals and the broader complementary therapies community.
A Foundation in Natural and Transpersonal Studies
Lawrence’s background spans extensive study and hands-on experience in the natural health industry. He is the author of nine books and has trained and practiced as a Transpersonal Therapist for several years. In 2009, he was awarded a Master's of Transpersonal Studies from the IKON Institute, further grounding his work in psychological, spiritual, and holistic frameworks.
Earlier in his career, Lawrence served as Director of the International Institute for Reiki Training and later founded the International Institute for Complementary Therapists. Since the early 1990s, he has been actively involved with a range of educational organizations and spiritual traditions, supporting their development through innovation, leadership, and teaching.
His work has taken him around the world, where he has lectured, facilitated training, and shared insights drawn from decades of experience in complementary therapies and education.
Founder of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists
As Founder and CEO of IICT, Lawrence has played a central role in creating an organization designed to empower natural therapy practitioners globally. IICT provides professional certification, access to cost-effective insurance, and guidance to help practitioners develop ethical, viable, and fulfilling complementary therapy businesses.
Under Lawrence’s leadership, IICT has achieved international recognition and continues to expand its reach. In 2024, IICT was named a finalist in the Great Place to Work Awards, an acknowledgment of the organization’s workplace culture and commitment to balance, wellbeing, and values-driven leadership.
Reflecting on the recognition, Lawrence emphasized the importance of achieving real balance between professional life and personal wellbeing, both at IICT headquarters in Byron Bay and across its remote and international workforce. He credited the organization’s team for embodying the principles they promote within the complementary therapies community.

A Life of Practice, Teaching, and Service
Beyond his professional achievements, Lawrence’s life reflects deep engagement with spiritual practice and discipline. He is a Minister in the Spirit of the Earth Medicine Society and an Aikido Sensei holding a 4th Dan black belt. These practices inform his leadership style and philosophical approach, blending physical discipline, mindfulness, and ethical responsibility.
Lawrence currently lives in Byron Bay, New South Wales, with his two sons and daughter, continuing to balance family life with his international work in education and publishing.
Best-Selling Author and Thought Leader
Lawrence Ellyard is the author of nine books that explore Reiki, meditation, spiritual practice, water consciousness, and ethical marketing for natural therapy practitioners. His work has been endorsed by respected figures, including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Dr. Masaru Emoto, and Jack Canfield. His published works include:
"The Secrets of Spiritual Marketing" - A practical guide to advertising and marketing a natural therapy business with integrity and purpose.
"Reiki Meditations for Beginners" - A hands-on introduction to meditation and Reiki practices for those new to the path.
"Reiki Questions and Answers: 200 Questions and Answers for Beginners" - A comprehensive reference addressing common questions about Reiki principles and practice.
"The Ultimate Reiki Guide for Practitioners and Masters" - A detailed resource for practitioners seeking to deepen their practice and learn how to teach Reiki.
"Everyday Buddha" - A collection of reflective sayings and teachings inspired by Buddhist wisdom and the spiritual path.
"The Spirit of Water" - An exploration of water’s role in life, spirituality, global use, and environmental concerns.

Continuing to Elevate the Complementary Therapies Community
Through writing, teaching, and organizational leadership, Lawrence Ellyard has consistently focused on helping others grow. His work continues to influence thousands of practitioners worldwide, offering education, structure, and inspiration within the evolving field of complementary therapies.
Whether through his books, his leadership at IICT, or his global speaking and training efforts, Lawrence’s legacy reflects a dedication to service, integrity, and the belief that meaningful work begins with purpose.
Lawrence Ellyard is featured in the Biohack Yourself Magazine Winter 2025/26 issue with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon on the cover, available in stores and online on January 20, 2026.
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