Student Spotlight
Beth Harrison, Ph.D. candidate
"Raising Natural Consciousness"
Beth Harrison still believes that consumers want to make better health choices, but she's pretty concerned about the "persistent corporate spin" that leaves the public uninformed, confused, and even misinformed.
As a freelance writer and editor of a national magazine, Beth is a natural-born researcher. While attending George Mason University in the 1980s, she became interested in macrobiotics, eager to align with the healing energies of natural foods. Unable to find formal studies in natural health, she graduated with a B.S. in Health Education. "I remember studying about natural health on my own and choosing to do research papers on Color Therapy, Dangers of Food Irradiation, and Diet, Crime, Delinquency and Macrobiotics. I was into natural health way before it was popular."
Beth grew up in Washington D.C. and has lived in New York City, Austin, Texas, and Portland, Oregon. She and her husband left big-city life in 1996, opting to enjoy the beauty and the "rarefied air" of Sedona, Arizona. It was in this Mecca of holistic health that she discovered the magic of distance learning via Clayton College. "I have always studied natural health on my own, but to be able to get my masters and doctorate in Natural Health is exciting. Getting my (school) books always feels like Christmas! I've told so many people about CCNH, and already enlisted two other students to join me…so far," she added.
In 2004 Beth earned an M.S. in Natural Health with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. She is now enrolled in doctoral studies and eager to share her research findings in a dissertation on the "Politics of Genetically Engineered Foods."
"Because the FDA does not require testing of genetically engineered foods, it has never had evidence that any of these foods are safe for human consumption. Most Americans don’t even know they’re eating GE foods, which pose serious health risks. I hope to get my dissertation turned into a book that can help enlighten people about what they’ve been subject to and what they can do to protect themselves."
Beth and her husband live as an example of actively choosing natural health options. Both of their children were born with a midwife and are growing up with the healing effects of energy work, organic food, herbs, and homeopathic remedies when needed. And nothing makes Beth happier than having an entire family whose favorite beverage is green. "I believe our kids' sweet dispositions are due, in part, to their calm births and how we live day-to-day. I want to teach them what I know so they can carry this valuable information throughout their lives."
Besides publishing "The Politics of Genetically Engineered Foods," Beth is also planning a documentary on the modern pioneers of natural health, as well as another book about the vitality of the "senior" population. "Our society puts such a negative spin on aging," she commented. "And I want to show people that there are vital, creative seniors out there – to inspire young and old to continue to grow, explore, and to live their lives to the fullest."
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