About the Student Abstract

Abstract

Motivation For my thesis topic, I am investigating the benefits of holistic wellness programs. toward a low-income community Historically, natural medicine in the west was considered “fraudulent medicine”, but today it has rebranded itself as a fundamental practice to live a healthy life. Natural Medicine can be as simple as following exercise habits or practicing acupuncture. As I age, I am more aware of what I eat, how much I exercise, and how often I allow my body to rest. Some people do not, nor feel they need to, which can lead to some common chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, etc. In low income neighborhoods it is difficult to find affordable and convenient holistic wellness programs. Modern hospitals are realizing that holistic programs can be a valuable tool which is why some of the top U.S. hospitals are recommending natural therapies to patients (Ross, 2017).

Problem One of the biggest issues in Richmond is the risk of various chronic diseases especially in low-income communities. Bon Secours Hospital reports that “Chronic diseases and conditions—such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and arthritis—are among the most common, costly, and preventable of all health problems”, and that “Thirty percent (30%) of Virginians are obese (BMI >30).” (Secours, 2019) Richmond communities can benefit from a Natural Health and Wellness Center (NHWC) to prevent or control these diseases with the help of a holistic medical professional.

Methods

Preliminary findings include chronic disease statistics in Richmond and the benefits of yoga and acupuncture. Additional research includes an informational interview conducted with Andrs Wellness and Consulting in Glen Allen, Virginia. In order to understand the needs of the Fulton Hill community that my site resides in, 10000 Carlisle Ave, I will analyze amenities around the surrounding area. A survey on healthy habits and wellness was performed in Fall 2020 with 80 random participants.

Preliminary Results

A “Healthy Habits” survey was conducted among 80 random participants by filling out a digital survey advertised through Facebook and Nextdoor.com. The priority was to have half participants ages 21-39 and other half 40-65. I asked participants their age, if they had any (preventable) chronic conditions, their healthy habit frequency (exercise, meditation, etc.), and if they use any wellness facilities. Of the 76 responses, 40% had at least one of the 5 listed chronic diseases (diabetes, obesity, arthritis, asthma, none had heart disease). 35% exercise 5+ days/ week and 30% exercise 1-2 days/week. 60% of participants have a lack of motivation to exercise, with a majority of these participants listing at least one chronic disease. In response I plan to determine what can motivate individuals (esp. those with chronic diseases) to use a NHWC. In my informational interview with Naturopathic Doctor (ND) Leland Tillman from Andrs Wellness and Consulting most of their visitors (typically women of ages 30-65) enjoy group activities most. The CDC notes that “Most Americans have chronic diseases that can be prevented or reversed by eating healthier or exercising 30 minutes a day 5 days a week” (CDC, 2018).

Conclusion The proposed Natural Health and Wellness Center will include exam rooms for check-ups or physicals, a gym, and acupuncture/masage suites. This holistic model encapsulates the idea that healing the body can be done in many ways depending on the needs of the individual. The aim is to progress the Richmond community toward a convenient and healthy lifestyle that promotes communal activities, and an understanding of their own bodies, with a medical professional by their side. Integrating wellness in healthcare settings should be essential. This can be a stepping stone toward a brighter future for healthcare deign.