How did you become interested in natural health/holistic nutrition?
Since I am part of the aging population, I wanted to look for ways to stay healthy and keep active. My many years working as a nurse and seeing people who were very ill reinforced how important it is to breathe clean air and eat foods that are natural, nutritious, and unprocessed in order to keep your health and live a longer life.
How did you decide on CCNH in particular… and how has this experience worked for you as a student?
I am a citizen of the United States, but right now I am in Canada and I plan on living there for a few years. I was excited to find a program that could be completed online. I was also encouraged to find that the curriculum supported a master’s program that I’m very much interested in. I am enrolled in the masters in natural health program, and I would also like to pursue a degree in nutrition. The term semesters have worked well for me, and it has been convenient to have the flexibility of finishing a term early and re-enrolling in a new term very quickly.
Have your studies involved a career change, job enhancement, and/or personal healing?
My studies will allow me to enhance and supplement my nursing background with areas of interest, and they will also give me a personal level of knowledge for educating myself and my family on natural health, diet, and nutrition.
Describe your “dream” career.
My “dream” career involves being an educator in natural health and nutrition through my own business, counseling clients on health and nutrition. I would also have other practitioners in the “business” to provide massage therapy, acupuncture, acupressure, reflexology, and other integrated natural therapies. The business could also be a center for yoga, exercise, and relaxation education, providing an atmosphere of wellness.
Are you a teacher or coach?
I have been a nurse for many years and have taught several health-related classes on breast health and the importance of mammography and self-exams, as well as emergency nursing education.
What would you like to convey about your applications of mind/body/spirit health, as relates to work philosophy/professional life?
I’ve always been a champion of health and wellness, and I’ve lived and educated others in the attributes of eating a healthy, nutritious, well-balanced, and natural diet. I’ve promoted the benefits of exercising and taking care of yourself. In my professional life, I’ve seen too many people who have experienced illness as a result of poor diet choices, excessive amounts of stress, and unhealthy habits.
I truly believe that keeping healthy with nutrition and using natural supplements to help combat toxins has been extremely beneficial in my life. I attempt to avoid processed foods as much as possible and take antioxidants. Because of this regimen, I feel better, and I have more energy and stamina. I’ve had chronic back pain and problems with my neck for years, and I’ve found that massage therapy and supplements have provided me with relief from this pain.
Who is your favorite author within the field of natural health, and why?
I really find that Dr. Andrew Weil is a leader in natural health and healthy living, and he is a wonderful resource of information on diet and nutrition.
Do you have a favorite quotation, health-related or not, that you’d like to share?
One of my favorite authors of everyday life is Erma Bombeck, whose insight and sense of humor are evident in her books and philosophies. One of my favorite quotes of hers is, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.’”
This article was based on an interview with the student.
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