Prior to CCNH, what was your educational experience?
I have a scientific background, with my M.Sc. in biochemistry from Charles’ University in Prague, Czech Republic, and my Ph.D. in enzymology from Paris-South University, France.
As a graduate student in Paris, I conducted research for several years. However, I always had a feeling that there is something missing in the way modern scientific research is conducted. It dissects everything into pieces and looks only at physical matter — no holistic view of anything.
And what about energy? Unfortunately this isn’t given nearly enough consideration within “modern” research.
How did you become interested in natural health and holistic nutrition?
I guess like thousands of other CCNH students, my own health issues brought me to it. My family always used more herbs than drugs for most health problems, but it wasn’t until my own health started breaking down and I experienced healing through herbs, nutrition and homeopathy — thanks to my homeopath and now dear friend!
From there I just knew that I wanted to focus on learning about natural healing methods, and maybe one day help others with their own health. So I started with an herbalist program at another distance learning school, which only opened my appetite to want to learn more.
How did you decide on CCNH in particular…and how has this experience worked for you?
I did quite a bit of online research, and Clayton College seemed by far the best candidate — being affordable and self-paced; also it is a well recognized school, with many thousands of successful students and graduates worldwide.
So I didn’t hesitate! And now I can say how much I really enjoyed my CCNH experience. I think the choice of coursework and study materials are excellent; I have learned a lot and learned deeply enough to give me confidence that I can definitely use this wonderful information in establishing a practice.
Have your studies involved a career change, job enhancement, and/or personal healing?
Yes to all three of these. After first obtaining my herbalist certificate, I started my own part-time consulting business (while still having my job as research scientist at Indiana University). But it wasn’t until completing my consulting practicum for my naturopathy degree at Clayton that I started to educate other people more seriously and help them with their health issues.
Earning my ND degree has really helped me to earn more trust among people, and it has added to my own confidence. Also I’m happy to say that great personal healing and growth continues happening along the way!
Who is your favorite author within the field of natural health, and why?
For several years I have been drawn to the work of Donna Eden. I re-read her first book, Energy Medicine, several times because I wanted to learn all of her energy exercises by heart. Then I completed her home-study class in basic energy medicine and later attended her four-day class on Energy Medicine for Women. She is 65 and full of energy!
I think everyone could benefit from learning more about natural energy techniques and simple energy exercises.
This article was based on an interview with the graduate.
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