Those looking to emotionally and physically improve their lifestyles will have the opportunity to check out the benefits of holistic health care.
The Ventura College Holistic Health Club will be hosting weeklong festivities to promote Holistic Health and Wellness Week, which runs from April 19 to 24. The event will be open to the public and provide attendees with tips to live a healthier lifestyle.
According to Linda A. Rovai, Counselor for Holistic Studies and Holistic Health Club co-advisor, the purpose of the event is to explore, celebrate and discuss human beings as a whole at the mind, body and spiritual levels.
“These events, along with the Holistic Studies classes, will allow students to gain an insight into the nature of wellness from the Holistic–whole person–perspective,” said Rovai in a written statement. “Health and wellness, from the holistic perspective, goes beyond the traditional western mainstream concept of equating health with the absence of pain and/or being physically fit. It includes the concepts of creating wellness, graceful aging and disease prevention, being at peace, having joy, contentment and purpose in one’s life.”
Guest speakers will also be in attendance throughout the week to guide students through holistic health-related issues, according to Raeann Koerner, professor of health education and physical education and primary advisor of the Holistic Health and Wellness Club. There will also be acupuncturists, herbalists, chiropractors and massage therapists, as well as workshops advising students how to live greenly and grow organic foods.
“Attendees will have an opportunity to hear speakers, view films and watch and engage in some basic Martial Arts demonstrations on campus. And perhaps, even get a five-minute chair massage,” said Rovai.
The biggest festivities of the week will fall on Earth Day, April 22, where a Holistic Wellness Festival will take place. A Health Care Fair will be set up in the campus quad from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as will a silent auction from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students will find the quad bursting with music and entertainment, and there will be a free barbeque lunch for those who participate in a mulching activity.
Rovai encourages students to attend and open their minds to the various healing actions the world has to offer.
“The integration of the ancient healing arts and western medicine is happening now,” she said. “Yoga, stress reduction, Reiki, herbs, acupuncture, as well as the concepts of unconditional love and forgiveness, are fast becoming part of one’s healing journey. Local hospitals such as St. John’s Community Memorial and Cottage Hospital are in the forefront of offering these services for individuals.”
