About Us..
Emerald River is built on the foundation of our own journey together. As husband and wife, we've seen first-hand the incredible power of these practices to navigate life's challenges. We are here to share the exact tools—the ancient wisdom and modern techniques—that have kept our own partnership and individual lives in a state of flow, balance, and profound connection. We invite you to experience the harmony that comes from pausing and reconnecting, guided by our combined energy.
Below is a little more info about us as individuals.
Katy Mackin
I’ve always been a free spirit, someone who follows her own path. School never felt like the right fit for me, so when I left, I wasn’t quite sure what career to pursue. What I did know was that I loved people—their stories, their strength, their vulnerability, and the incredible diversity of human experience.
Over the years, I explored many different paths: beauty, fitness, marketing, sales, and property management. Each brought something new and exciting, but none of them felt like home.
Becoming a mother was a turning point. I adored every moment of it, but I also felt the weight of wanting to raise my children consciously—allowing them to be who they truly are, without inheriting my unhealed wounds. That desire opened the door to my own healing journey.
I began to face and release past traumas, generational patterns, and depression. I dove into self-discovery and reclaimed the strength of the feminine within me. Coming from a big family has always been a gift, but it also made it challenging to find my voice. Breathwork and sound healing changed that for me—they helped me come home to myself.
Michael Mackin
I am passionate about bridging the gap between ancient wisdom, modern science, and real-world results.
My journey began in the world of construction, where I spent two decades founding and successfully growing a civil engineering business. This background instilled in me a deep appreciation for structure, evidence, and measurable outcomes, qualities I bring into every therapeutic session.
After a successful career, I felt called to pursue a more holistic path rooted in nature & ancient wisdom. This led me to specialised training in Breathwork & Sound Therapy at the prestigious Celtic School of Sound, honouring my Celtic roots. Today, I combine my scientific understanding with these powerful, proven modalities to help you achieve profound, lasting well-being and reconnect with your most natural rhythm.
Our Purpose-Built Sanctuary
Step inside the heart of Emerald River: our purpose-built sound healing studio. Tucked away in the tranquility of our garden which backs onto Horn Park in SE12, South East London, this dedicated space was designed from the ground up to be a sanctuary for sound and stillness. Every detail—from the acoustics to the ambient light—is optimized to facilitate deep relaxation and profound restoration. Watch the video to get a glimpse of the peaceful environment where your healing journey begins.
Our Qualifications...
At Emerald River, our practices are founded on rigorous training, professional accreditation, and a blend of ancient wisdom and modern clinical application. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards in holistic therapy.
Sound Healing - Celtic School of Sound Healing
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We both hold a Master's Diploma in Sound Therapy from the Celtic School of Sound Healing. This qualification signifies our comprehensive training in the therapeutic application of sound and vibration and provides you with the assurance of professional standards and ethical practice:
- UK Complimentary Medical Association (CMA): The Celtic School of Sound Healing is a registered college and centre of excellence with the CMA.
- Association of Sound Therapists Ireland (AOSTI): Our qualifications are recognized by AOSTI.
Advanced Breathwork - SOMA Breath
We have completed Breathwork Instructor & Advanced Breathwork Instructor Training with SOMA Breath. This extensive training ensures we guide you through safe, powerful, and evidence-informed science backed breathwork methods.
SOMA Breath is accredited or recognized by several leading international organizations, underscoring the quality and depth of the training:
- ACCPH (Accredited Counsellors, Coaches, Psychotherapists and Hypnotherapists)
- CPD Standards Office (Recognized for Continuing Professional Development)
- International Breathwork Foundation
- ICAHP (International Compliance Assurance for Holistic Practitioners) — recognized as a Holistic Health Training Provider.
