My name is Joan Coghlan and I am very happy to be affiliated with the Center for Integrative Bodywork offering Reflexology, Reiki and Detoxification Education. I initially became interested in natural healing after being diagnosed with pneumonia in 1993. Several years later, I experienced my third episode of immobilizing back pain and researched self-healing. I soon realized my back problems were caused by my stressful thoughts. The back pain dissipated after discovering new ways to think about my life and making some needed lifestyle changes. My appreciation for stress management tools deepened after attending several different conferences where I learned that all levels of the brain are accessed in the state of play, and that certain higher levels of thought cannot be accessed in the presence of stress and anxiety. Therefore, quality of life, optimal decision making and stress management were the result of first accessing a peaceful inner state. In 1999, I started going through a lengthy stressful divorce and over the next few years began experiencing a myriad of health challenges. During this period of time I was also enrolled in classes with Midwest College of Naturopathic Medicine. These classes were contributing to my own healing with natural methods. I then started detoxifying. I have tried numerous different detoxing protocols for cleansing the liver/gallbladder, kidney/bladder and the colon. I do regular maintenance cleansing several times a year. My personal healing journey through leaky gut, adrenal exhaustion, thyroid imbalance , candida overgrowth, eczema, fatigue, joint pain, and muscle pain have enhanced my appreciation for the contribution to healing that can result with detoxification of the body. Some of the healing modalities I studied and have practiced are Reflexology and Manual Lymphatic Drainage and the benefits that can be derived from these noninvasive techniques. I found both techniques particularly beneficial with my children, in boosting immune function, and also complementary in my informal energy and bodywork practice. It seems that this journey, like for many of us, has consistently been directing me inward physically, mentally and spiritually showing me that true healing has a physical and a nonphysical component. I now know, experientially, that the body is designed to heal itself. It is my belief that in order for this healing response to work as nature intended, and to eliminate dis-ease at the cause (not just the symptomatic level), the body needs life enhancing thoughts, nutrition, pure water, rest, oxygen, movement, and inner peace. I believe there are an infinite number of paths available to reclaim our natural state of vibrant health. My experience is just one path. I am happy to be with CFIB sharing what I have learned. My undergraduate degree is in accounting. I am a member of the Hands on Trade Association. Good Health and Happinss Always! |