How did you become interested in natural health/holistic nutrition?
After visiting conventional medical doctors numerous times and having dangerous, habit-forming pharmaceuticals pushed on me, I became interested in natural health. I always refused them, because I felt like they were a band-aid rather than a solution to the underlying issue. I want to teach others how to address critical health conditions using natural, holistic approaches.
How did you decide on CCNH in particular, and how has this experience worked for you as a student? If you’ve completed courses on the 16 week term calendar, share your thoughts about that.
CCNH was perfect for my schedule. In addition to pursuing my master of science in holistic nutrition degree with CCNH, I am working to become a certified nutritional therapy practitioner elsewhere, and the flexibility of CCNH’s self-paced programs allows me to do that.
Are your studies a precursor to a potential career change or job enhancement, or are they a part of your personal healing?
My professional and educational background is in fashion marketing and public relations. After spending many years in the fashion industry, I discovered that many people are desperately trying to seek their “authentic selves.” I believe that finding your authentic self starts with getting back to the basics: holistic nutrition and spiritual enlightenment.
Describe your “dream” career.
It would be my dream to specialize in working with people, particularly teenage women, who have addictions such as eating disorders and alcohol and chemical dependencies. I want to focus on nutritional psychology, and I would educate my clients on including nutritional supplements in their diet, exercising, and ways to eat healthy and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
What would you like to convey about your experience with natural health practices as it relates to work philosophy/professional life?
I live by the old expression, “Garbage in, garbage out.” When you get into the habit of taking care of yourself, you are operating at your highest potential. When you feel good, you attract good things and good people to you. This is the way to a healthy, happy life.
What would you like to convey about your experience with natural health practices as it relates to personal/family health?
Chemical imbalances and nutritional deficiencies in the body can contribute to “addict-like” behaviors. When I started to eat right and take care of myself, former cravings and thought patterns dissipated. If I had known that a holistic diet would have eliminated some of my addict-like behaviors, I would’ve saved myself years of suffering.
Have you mentored, been mentored, or would you like to become a mentor within any area of natural health?
I have not been mentored yet. It would be wonderful to connect with someone who has experience in nutritional psychology, and I would love to be mentored by someone who has worked with people who have addictions.
Who is your favorite author within the field of natural health, and why?
My favorite author is Julia Ross, who wrote The Diet Cure and The Mood Cure. She inspired me to leave my career in the fashion industry and work with people who have addictions.
What else is on your list, as to “how to best tell the story of you”?
I have experienced a lot of difficult situations in my 27 years. By overcoming these obstacles, I’ve become a strong yet caring woman. My favorite quotation is, “The mirror never lies.” I’ve learned that when we can stop, stare at ourselves in the mirror, and truly feel secure, then we can help others experiencing situations similar to ours.
This article was based on an interview with the student.
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