Founder & Principle

Oliver Cowmeadow

Oliver, founder and principal of the International Macrobiotic School, is a prominent figure in professional macrobiotic training courses. With over 40 years of experience in teaching and nutritional consultations, his journey began in 1980 when he started studying macrobiotics and shiatsu in London.  

To deepen his knowledge, Oliver trained with renowned experts Michio and Aveline Kushi in Boston, USA, and across Europe. In 1984, he settled in the south west of England, where he has since dedicated his career to practising as a macrobiotic health counsellor and shiatsu therapist, helping countless individuals improve their health and wellbeing.  

Oliver’s extensive experience includes supporting a wide range of clients over 35 years and integrating emotional healing into his consultations, drawing on his training in person-centred emotional counselling and rebirthing during the 1990s.  

In 1985, Oliver established one of the UK’s first shiatsu schools, training hundreds of practitioners over nearly three decades. His passion for education led to the founding of the International Macrobiotic School in 2003, setting a benchmark for high-quality, in-depth practitioner training.  

As a pioneer in the field, Oliver contributed to establishing training standards for the Shiatsu Society and later spearheaded a similar initiative for the Macrobiotic Association in 2006. With his expertise in macrobiotic and natural healing, complemented by a degree in Zoology, he blends traditional Eastern approaches with scientific insights in his work.  

An accomplished author, Oliver has written five books on macrobiotics and shiatsu. Through his teaching, writing, and consultations, he remains dedicated to empowering individuals to take charge of their health and embrace natural healing practices.