'I use different places for different moods but I really like the long sandy beaches of the Northumberland coast' MY PLACE.

Byline: Katharine Capocci

RUMANA Zahn is a naturopath and herbal practitioner, who runs clinics in Newcastle, Darlington and at Seaham Hall's Serenity Spa, as well as corporate 'wellbeing at work' programmes.

Rumana is in her early 40s and lives in Newcastle. A former scientist, she has worked as a microbiologist for a water company, and also in the field of pharmaceuticals.

"I left pharmaceuticals to pursue my own passion, looking at health and wellbeing from a holistic point of view," she explains.

Rumana is a leader in the field of natural medicine and as well as writing a column for sister publication, North East Exclusive magazine, she also speaks extensively on the subject.

Where do you live? Newcastle.

What's your dream house? I would love to live in a modern designed eco-friendly house overlooking the sea with my own herb and vegetable garden.

What's your favourite part of the North East? Surprisingly, there are so many nice hideaways in the North East it's difficult to pick out one. I use different places for different moods, but I really like the long sandy beaches of the Northumberland coast.

What is your favourite building in the North East? I like traditional architecture but I am impressed with some of the riverside buildings (and bridges), especially our iconic Sage building.

Best holiday you've ever had? Scuba diving and dancing salsa in Cuba! Favourite thing in your home? I have to admit it's my bed. It is my haven for peace and solitude, plus it's so warm and cosy.

If you could have one luxury, what would it be? I love travelling and some of the places around the world are just so idyllic. One of my dreams would be to stay in a luxury open-air wooden lodge in South Africa.

What are you working on at the moment? Fingers in pies come to mind. I have a very varied and interesting work-life. I am currently working on developing a wellbeing programme for a large national corporate.

Who or what is the love of your life? Dancing Argentine tango - it's passionate, musical and beautiful. It can transcend you into a different world plus it's fantastic at keeping you fit and healthy.

Favourite shop? I never believed I would say that I spend quite a bit more time shopping online. However, I do enjoy shopping and with my love of the outdoors I enjoy browsing Fat Face clothes.

Favourite restaurant? As a health practitioner I love going to restaurants where the food is cooked fresh and is healthy. I have a varied palate delighting in most types of international cuisine, particularly if it's hot and spicy! A masala dosa at the South Indian Rasa restaurant on the Quayside is one of my favourites, closely followed by Blue Coyote (Mexican)..

Favourite pub? I rarely drink but if meeting up with friends I will sometimes suggest the Cluny on the Ouseburn, it's modern and vibrant.

What's the last play or film you saw? A friend who's a film buff lent me Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. What an interesting perspective on relationships.

Sometimes films just get you thinking in a totally different way.

Worth watching if you like creative films.

What book are you reading at the moment? I always have two or three on the go. At the moment I'm really absorbed by psychology so I'm reading the work of Paul Ekman in Emotions Revealed. Did you know that every emotion is expressed on our face? What are you listening to on your music player at the moment? Pink Martini - I adore their range of Latin jazz and most of all wish I could sing like China Forbes.

Favourite TV programme? I usually don't have time to watch TV but I have to admit I enjoy watching experiences of people in Britain's Got Talent.

What are you proudest of? The fact that I gave up my full-time employment to follow my passion and to work in the field I love - helping people transform themselves and their health.

When and where were you happiest? Most of my happy moments are when I'm relaxed and in nature; walking in beautiful gardens, woods, hills or areas designated for outstanding beauty. I can recall a trip to the Andaluca mountains, the sunshine, the food, walking amongst the plants and waterfalls - just magnificent.

Do you have any wisdom to share? We all have to deal with our stresses, worries and anxieties, which can be expressions of our innermost fears. We pass through these time and again, they teach us more than we realise but facing fear is never a pleasant experience. No one puts it more clearly in my mind than Frank Herbert's Bene Gesserit litany of fear: I must not fear.

Fear is the mind-killer.

Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.

I will face my fear.

I will permit it to pass over me and through me.

And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.

Where the fear has gone there will be nothing.

Only I will remain.

What does the future hold? More of what I love - adventure, excitement, success and living my passions..

CAPTION(S):

CURRY FAVOUR Rasa Restaurant on Queen Street, Newcastle, one of Rumana's favourite restaurants.