First
Wellness Wednesday
By Caitlin Collins '05
On Sept. 8, the first ever Wellness Wednesday took place in the Health
Services Building. Dr. Nancy Sharts-Hopko from the College of Nursing kicked
off the series with a lecture on Complementary and Alternative Medicines.
Sponsored by the Center for Health and Wellness Education, the first of the
weekly sessions addressed different supplemental or replacement therapies to
conventional medicine and issues regarding aromatherapy, massage therapy,
natural herbs and special diets.
Sharts–Hopko presented many views of complementary
and alternative medicine during the first Wellness Wednesday session.
Focusing on the paradigm shift that occurred in our country, she stated much
of the world has long accepted ideas of homeopathy and other alternative
medical practices. In addition, Sharts–Hopko touched on herbal remedies and
told her audience that many herbs have been transformed into important
pharmaceuticals. Her lecture also delved into the concept of spiritual
healing. Quoting numerous studies on the positive affects of prayer, caring,
love and forgiveness for those with health problems, Sharts–Hopko stated
that many medical schools have introduced spirituality into their
curricula.
Catherine Lovecchio, the director of the Center for Health and Wellness
introduced the first Wellness Wednesday and the new series. A new health
related topic will be featured every Wednesday followed by a chance to relax
and reflect in the Health Services Building. The entire Villanova community
is welcome to attend the sessions that are intended to incorporate wellness
into everyday life. |
