NATUROPATHY

 

We've all heard it before, but some of us may not be entirely sure, or just need some reminding. Naturopathy: what is it, what does it do, and why should it be considered? 

 What is it?

Naturopathy relies on a holistic system of healing,  meaning that by incorporating a range of natural treatments and therapies, your own body is able to aid itself. The underlying belief is that our immune system may be less prone to sickness and general negative well-being if one can maintain a natural equilibrium of the body. 

As opposed to drugs, a Naturopath typically recommends systems of exercise or dietary changes  

What does it do?

Naturopathic approaches may include: 

• dietary advice
• herbal remedies
• homeopathy (the idea that like cures like, i.e. what makes a healthy person sick, will make a sick person healthy)
• hydrotherapy (use of water for pain relief and treatment)
• iridology (idea that patterns, colours and other characteristics of the iris can assist in pinpointing information about one's systemic health) 
• massage
• nutritional supplements
• osteopathy (work on muscles and joints; general belief that body has its own self-healing mechanisms).  

ADAVIC's workshop, 'Nourishing your nerves: Managing stress and anxiety through natural therapies' will include lectures in naturopathy, nutrition, Chinese medicine and yoga therapy - that's a diverse range of topics pertaining to naturopathy! Let's take a look at each of these topics briefly - to wet your appetite!

Nutrition: 

Rocco Di Vincenzo, an accredited practicing dietitian will talk about the role of optimum nutrition in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. His school of thought is that treatment occurs on a case-by-case basis, and that with the right diet for each individual, mood and anxiety can be better managed. 

Chinese Medicine:

 Robin Marchment, a lecturer in Chinese medicine at RMIT will discuss how herbs and acupuncture can calm the mind. Chinese herbs are said to restore your Qi (Chee); herbs are said to cure things like: fatigue, eczema, digestive problems and stress amongst others. Acupuncture, where very thin needles are inserted into the skin at acupuncture points, to restore the imbalance of the flow of Qi. The concept of Qi and Yin & Yang, are extremely prevalent in China, and many claim to have successfully manage their ailments. 

Yoga:

Originating from ancient India, Yoga is an increasingly popular exercise today. The main focus is to attain spiritual insight and inner tranquility. Essentially it is a kind of meditation which also physically as well as mentally manages.

Why should it be considered? 

Naturopathy claims to be able to treat a range of conditions, from weight loss to arthritis - book your seat at ADAVIC's 'Natural Therapies Workshop' to get a better understanding of natural therapies and how they may be able to assist you. 

Book here.