School of natural nutrition sets roots in Nanaimo
There’s a new school in town, and it’s focus is the healing power of food.
Registered holistic nutritionist, Dona Bradley of Gabriola, has opened a new branch of the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN) on Church Street in Nanaimo. Dona taught at the Vancouver location of CSNN for 10 years, and decided it was time to open the first holistic nutrition school on Vancouver Island.
“I saw the need, the desire, for a good holistic health course here on Vancouver Island,” she said. “I realized [Nanaimo] would be a great spot for it.”
Dona Bradley with her husband Eric Veale. Sounder file photo
Holistic nutrition “looks at the person, and it’s a combination of food and the healing aspects of whole food, combined with science; body, mind, spirit; and a large chunk of environmental education,” Dona explained. “It’s all of those things that give us our health, or lack of health. [It’s] food as medicine.”
The school offers a one-year diploma program that, after passing a board exam, gives graduates accreditation as registered holistic nutritionists. So far the response has been positive, Dona said. There was a wait list for the first intake in January and the program is full.
Dona said “students come from all walks.” They range from people with masters’ degrees to registered nurses, high school graduates, personal trainers, midwives, doulas and chefs. “Whatever people specialize in, whatever niche they have in life, nutrition can help with that.”
The program combines classroom instruction with field trips and practicums. Classes are two mornings per week, plus a few afternoons per month in a practicum. A part-time two-year program is also available.
Instructors include an acupuncturist and traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, a master herbalist, and a nutritionist, Dr. Wolfe from Gabriola.
Applications are being accepted for September. Contact CSNN at 250-741-4805 or nanaimo@csnn.ca for further information.
