After a career in sales and management in the advertising, publishing and food industries, I was looking for my next vocation and have found my next mission(s) in life! I have always been health conscious and enjoyed yoga, aerobics, cycling and hiking. I became a certified RYT200 yoga instructor in 2012 - MISSION #1. Since then I have taught yoga year round, including the popular "Yoga on the Beach" outdoors during July and August, on our beautiful Qualicum Beach and Parksville waterfront areas. Then I discovered the field of Holistic Nutrition, and my interest in food, health, and fitness all came together and I found MISSION #2, studying full-time for 2 years to attainmy Diploma as a Registered Holistic Nutritionist. My Training as a REGISTERED HOLISTIC NUTRITIONIST: Mainstream medicine does not emphasize the significance of poor nutrition as a major cause of a wide range of health disorders. Holistic nutritionists are trained to guide clients through the maze of information from books, magazines, supplements, and diet. I work with clients to identify and help correct nutritional causes of diseases, and am qualified to design personalized diet and lifestyle programs that optimize health. I value each individual’s unique experiences and preferences when recommending programs and recognize the need to work co-operatively with other disciplines, holistic and mainstream, to best serve my clients. Courses I completed are grounded in scientific evidence and included: Anatomy, Biology, Cellular Biology, Chemistry/ Biochemistry, Physiology, Preventive Nutrition, Geriatric/ Pediatric/Sports Nutrition, Symptomology, Pathology, Allergies, Alternative Diets, and Clinical Research. I was required to complete in-depth Case Studies, pass exams for each module, and write a final proctored exam. Our mandate is to educate groups and individuals about the benefits and health impacts of optimal nutrition. I work one-on-one with clients to develop personalized programs and also enjoy public speaking in a variety of venues.