Discover Holistic Nursing: From Certification to Transformation

In the world of healthcare, many nurses find themselves yearning for a deeper connection with their patients and a practice that aligns with their personal values of compassion and wellness. Holistic nursing offers exactly that—a path to transform your career, embrace integrative practices, and become a beacon of healing in a system that often feels fragmented.

If you’re asking, “What can I do as a holistic nurse, and how can I get board certified?”—you’re not alone. This guide is designed for nurses like you, seeking meaningful ways to integrate holistic and evidence-based practices into your work.

What Can Holistic Nurses Do?

Holistic nursing is more than a profession; it’s a philosophy of care. As a holistic nurse, you’ll focus on treating the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and environment. Here’s how you can make an impact:

1. Integrative Patient Care:

Blend traditional medical treatments with alternative therapies like mindfulness, aromatherapy, and nutrition counseling to create well-rounded care plans.

2. Emotional Support for Patients:

Use techniques like meditation and guided imagery to help patients manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges.

3. Health Advocacy:

Empower your patients to take an active role in their wellness journey by teaching them self-care techniques and lifestyle changes.

4. Promote Wellness Beyond the Hospital:

Work in settings that allow you to expand your impact, including community health programs, wellness centers, and private practices.

Where Can Holistic Nurses Work?

One of the most exciting aspects of holistic nursing is its versatility. You can pursue roles in diverse settings, such as:

- Hospitals: Integrate holistic practices into traditional patient care.

- Private Practice: Offer specialized services like Reiki, massage therapy, or nutritional coaching.

- Outpatient Clinics: Focus on preventive and integrative care.

- Long-Term Care Facilities: Support elderly patients with stress management and holistic approaches.

- Community Health Programs: Educate underserved populations on wellness practices.

- Wellness Centers and Spas: Lead stress reduction programs or yoga therapy.

- Education and Research: Teach or conduct research on holistic practices to expand the field.

The demand for holistic nursing continues to grow as more people recognize the value of integrative care in achieving long-term health and well-being.

How Can I Become Board Certified in Holistic Nursing?

Becoming a board-certified holistic nurse through the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation (AHNCC) is a powerful way to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to this specialty. Here’s how you can achieve certification:

1. Meet Educational Requirements:

Complete a nationally accredited nursing program.

2. Maintain Active Licensure:

Hold a current, unrestricted RN license in the U.S.

3. Gain Holistic Nursing Experience:

Accumulate 2,000 hours or one year of full-time practice in holistic nursing within the past five years.

4. Complete Continuing Education:

Finish 48 hours of continuing education in holistic nursing theory, research, or related areas within two years of application.

5. Pass the Certification Exam:

Submit an application and pass the AHNCC’s rigorous exam to earn your credentials.

For more details, review the Holistic Nursing Core Essentials here.

Why Pursue Holistic Nursing Certification?

Certification isn’t just a professional milestone—it’s a personal transformation. Here’s what you gain:

- Credibility: Certification validates your skills, setting you apart as a leader in holistic care.

- Career Growth: It opens doors to roles in wellness centers, private practices, and educational institutions.

- Personal Fulfillment: Holistic nursing allows you to care for patients in ways that align with your values, bringing healing to the forefront of healthcare.

If you’ve ever felt that conventional nursing falls short of your desire to truly connect with your patients, holistic nursing offers a way to bridge that gap. By integrating evidence-based practices with the art of healing, you can create meaningful change in your patients’ lives—and your own.

Take the leap into holistic nursing and discover a career that nourishes your passion for compassionate, whole-person care. Let this be the moment you align your professional journey with your values of health, healing, and humanity.

From Bedside to Business: Starting Your Holistic Nursing Private Practice

As a nurse, you’ve dedicated yourself to the well-being of others. But what if it’s time to turn that commitment inward and create a career that nourishes both your professional goals and personal values? Many holistic nurses are shifting from conventional bedside roles to impactful businesses where they can work as holistic nurse coaches, educators, and health consultants. This journey isn’t just about escaping burnout—it’s about building a meaningful practice that honors your unique strengths, philosophies, and desire to serve in a way that resonates deeply.

In this blog, we’ll walk through the five essential steps of this transition, helping you understand each phase from a place of clarity and purpose. And if you're ready to move from contemplation to action, our Bedside to Business Mastermind program is here to provide you with the tools, confidence, and community you need to launch your dream practice.

Step 1: Precontemplation – Recognizing the Need for Change

Many nurses in traditional settings begin to feel an itch for something more, sensing misalignment with their current roles but unsure of what the next step could look like. This phase can be marked by feelings of burnout, discontent, and the desire for a career that resonates with your holistic health beliefs.

The Bedside to Business Mastermind is designed for nurses in this phase, offering insights into where to focus your strengths and what possibilities lie beyond bedside care. Whether you dream of becoming a holistic nurse coach, pursuing a nurse health coach certification, or simply exploring options, this program helps you find clarity.

Step 2: Clarity – Discovering Your Zone of Genius

Once you’ve acknowledged the need for change, the next step is to gain clarity. This involves understanding your unique strengths—your “zone of genius”—and aligning them with the needs of your ideal clients. Many nurses discover that they’re drawn to holistic and integrative practices, like mind-body coaching or functional medicine consulting, where they can provide deeper care beyond the conventional limits.

In our Mastermind program, you’ll dive into this phase, exploring the opportunities that certification in holistic nurse coaching or nurse specialty courses can open up. This clarity is what transforms an idea into a tangible vision, setting the foundation for your future practice.

Step 3: Preparation and Education – Building Knowledge and Expertise

As you clarify your goals, you may find that additional education or certification is necessary to create a specialized, impactful practice. Many holistic nurses in our program pursue certifications in nurse health coaching, holistic nutrition, or even advanced integrative care courses to build credibility and deepen their expertise.

The Bedside to Business Mastermind supports you in this educational journey, guiding you toward resources, certifications, and CEUs for nurses that align with your practice goals. This phase is about empowerment—preparing yourself with the knowledge and tools to serve clients effectively and confidently.

Step 4: Action – Building and Launching Your Business

With your education and vision in place, it’s time to put things into action. This step is all about creating the structures and systems to bring your holistic nursing business to life. Our program covers the fundamentals of setting up your business, from branding and website creation to marketing and lead generation.

If you're moving into a holistic coaching role, for example, we provide you with strategies tailored to attracting clients who value integrative, compassionate care. You’ll learn how to position yourself as an expert and connect with those seeking nurse specialty courses or holistic wellness coaching.

Step 5: Maintenance – Growing and Expanding Your Practice

The final phase is about sustainability and growth. As your business takes off, we focus on maintaining momentum and ensuring that your practice grows in alignment with your values. This includes strategies for continuous professional development, client care, and expanding your impact.

In the Bedside to Business Mastermind, you’ll join a community of holistic nurses dedicated to ongoing personal and professional growth. We support each other in staying inspired, sharing insights, and refining our skills so that your journey as a holistic nurse coach, health educator, or consultant can continue to thrive.

Why Certification Matters for Holistic Nurses

Transitioning from bedside to business often requires additional credentials, like nurse health coach certification or CEUs in holistic health. Certifications not only provide you with the knowledge you need to serve clients effectively but also boost your credibility, helping clients see the value of your expertise.

Nurse specialty courses and CEUs for nurses focused on integrative and functional medicine, mind-body practices, and holistic coaching are invaluable in building a practice that’s both impactful and sustainable.

Join the Bedside to Business Mastermind

If you’re ready to move from a traditional nursing role to a business that embodies your values, the Bedside to Business Mastermind is your guide. You’ll receive tailored support, structured guidance, and a network of like-minded holistic nurses to help you bring your vision to life. Together, we’ll navigate every phase, from initial clarity to launching a thriving business.

Are you ready to take the first step? Join the Bedside to Business Mastermind and transform your calling into a career that honors your holistic approach to nursing. Embrace a future where you can practice on your terms, serve with passion, and thrive as a holistic nurse coach or wellness consultant.

Let’s build your dream practice—one step at a time.

Is Acupressure in My Scope of Practice? A Guide for Holistic Nurses

Is acupressure within my scope of practice as a nurse?

As an expert in holistic nursing education, I get this question so often that I decided to do a blog on it.

In this guide, I’ll explore the guidelines, benefits, and practical steps holistic nurses can take to begin using acupressure effectively.

Understanding Acupressure in Holistic Nursing

Acupressure is a traditional practice that involves applying focused pressure to specific points on the body, called acupoints, to relieve tension, manage pain, and restore the body’s natural balance. For nurses pursuing holistic nursing certification, this non-invasive technique aligns perfectly with patient-centered care by supporting the body’s own healing processes without medications or invasive procedures.

Some benefits of acupressure in nursing include:

• Pain Management: Helpful for chronic pain, such as lower back or joint pain, acupressure is a natural and effective alternative for patients.

• Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Acupressure can relieve anxiety and help patients feel more relaxed in clinical settings.

• Support for Recovery: Particularly effective for alleviating post-operative or chemotherapy-related nausea, acupressure provides comfort to patients during challenging treatments.

Is Acupressure Within My Scope of Practice?

It depends.

For holistic nurses wanting to offer evidence-based holistic nursing programs and provide complementary care, understanding the scope of practice is essential. According to an OJIN report on complementary therapies, some state boards permit the use of techniques like acupressure within nursing practice, provided the nurse has adequate training. States often support the inclusion of these therapies in mind-body nursing courses, as long as they meet certain guidelines, so therefore reviewing state-specific regulations is crucial.

The Nursing CE Connection article further supports this by highlighting that holistic nursing certification programs, which often cover acupressure, can help ensure nurses meet their state’s requirements. Certification helps you incorporate acupressure into patient care confidently, knowing you’re practicing safely and ethically within your nursing scope.

How to Integrate Acupressure into Your Nursing Practice

If you’re ready to bring acupressure into your practice, follow these steps:

1. Review Your State’s Guidelines: Check your state board of nursing’s policies on complementary therapies to determine whether acupressure is within your nursing scope and not regulated by other boards. Some boards provide specific guidance on the techniques allowed, documentation required, and formal training. While there is no national licensing for Acupressure, certain states have specific guidelines on acupressure. States such as California may require a certification from the Acupuncture board.

2. Gain Certification in Holistic Nursing: Holistic nursing certifications and functional medicine for nurses programs provide a foundation for practicing integrative techniques responsibly. Certification not only enhances your skills but ensures you’re prepared to meet the highest standards of care in evidence-based holistic nursing.

3. Start with Simple Acupressure Techniques: Begin by introducing simple techniques for common issues, such as headaches or stress. For example, applying light pressure to LI4 (Hegu) on the hand can help manage pain and tension, providing immediate relief for patients. This gradual introduction allows you to build confidence and observe how patients respond to this gentle practice.

4. Document and Communicate: As with any intervention, keep detailed records of complementary therapies used and consent. Document patients’ responses and any changes in their well-being. Open communication with patients and care teams ensures acupressure is smoothly integrated into holistic patient care.

Why Acupressure is Valuable for Holistic Nursing

Acupressure’s non-invasive, science-backed approach to care fits seamlessly within their holistic nursing clinical practice, enabling nurses to offer relief that goes beyond symptom management. Here’s how acupressure can enhance your practice:

• Non-Pharmacological Pain Relief: Patients seeking natural options for pain management benefit from acupressure’s effectiveness, reducing the need for medications.

• Enhanced Nurse-Patient Connection: By incorporating integrative tools for nurse-patient care, acupressure fosters trust and builds stronger relationships with patients.

• Comprehensive, Holistic Care: The mind-body medicine approach aligns with holistic nursing by focusing on patient-centered, compassionate care, addressing physical, mental, and emotional health.

The Path Forward for Holistic Nurses

Acupressure provides a meaningful way to support patients’ overall wellness while staying aligned with your professional scope. With more states recognizing the benefits of complementary therapies, the future of holistic nursing is bright and empowering.

By incorporating these simple, accessible techniques into your nursing practice, you can bring a new level of healing to your patients while fulfilling your mission as a holistic nurse.

Whether you’re interested in mindfulness-based stress relief for nurses, holistic tools for healthcare professionals, or self-care and resilience in nursing,Nurses for Natural Health offers holistic programs that are integrative, patient-centered approach to nursing care. Check out our other holistic programs.

How to Make Your Holistic Nursing Education Affordable: Payment Plans, Employer Reimbursement & Tax Benefits

Introduction

Choosing to advance your nursing career with a holistic nursing certification is a meaningful investment in yourself and your patients. But for many nurses, budget constraints can make it difficult to prioritize education and training. Here at Nurses for Natural Health, we understand that financial factors often shape these decisions. With that in mind, we’re here to offer three ways to make your holistic nursing education more affordable, while still receiving evidence-based, compassionate training.

1. Flexible Payment Plans for Your Budget

Budget flexibility is key when making an investment in your education, which is why we offer adaptable payment plans for nearly all of our courses. Payment plans allow you to spread the cost of your holistic nursing program over time, making it more manageable to invest in your skills without overextending your budget. On each course page, you’ll find options that allow you to preview a payment plan that suits your financial situation. If you need a customized payment plan, please reach out to us here.

Our holistic nursing certification programs — covering areas such as integrative health training, mind-body nursing courses, and functional nutrition for nurses — all have flexible payment plans to make your journey accessible and sustainable.

2. Employer Reimbursement & Group Rate Discounts

Many of our students receive tuition reimbursement from their employers. We know that communicating with your employer about reimbursement can be daunting, so we’ve created a simple, customizable letter template that you can use to request support for your education. Access that form here.

Additionally, we offer group rate discounts for organizations interested in training multiple healthcare providers. If you think your employer might be open to this, feel free to reach out to us here to request a training! We’re more than happy to discuss opportunities that can support your growth and your team’s mission of delivering integrative care.

3. Tax Benefits for Work-Related Education Expenses

Investing in holistic nursing education doesn’t just grow your skills; it can also provide tax benefits! According to the IRSguidelines on work-related education expenses, certain educational costs may be tax-deductible if they improve the skills needed in your current job or meet employer requirements to maintain your role. This deduction could include tuition, travel expenses, books, and supplies, offering additional savings on your investment. Tax-deductible continuing education classes can help offset the financial commitment of a program, allowing you to focus on growing your skills rather than financial strain.

4. Look for Special Discounts and Early Bird Pricing

We always offer early bird pricing in all of our programs and other discounts on our programs. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your skills in holistic nursing while saving on tuition. Our current discount is 20% off on our November Acupressure program with ACUNURSE112024.

5. Investing in Yourself for Lasting Rewards

Expanding your skill set with holistic, evidence-based practices in nursing is more than just career development; it’s a long-term investment in your future and your well-being. By equipping yourself with integrative tools for patient-centered care, you’re opening the door to new professional opportunities and the chance to make a deeper impact in healthcare.

If you have any questions or need more guidance on payment options, reimbursement, or tax deductions, our admissions team is here to help. Every day, we assist nurses in making informed decisions about their education, and we’d love to support you on this journey.

Ready to Begin?

Explore our holistic nursing certification options today, and take a step closer to a more fulfilling, integrative career in nursing. If you’d like to discuss your options with our admissions team, feel free to request a call by clicking here.

Conclusion

Making the decision to further your education is a powerful commitment to yourself and your patients. With payment plans, employer support, and potential tax benefits, you can access affordable pathways to the skills you need to thrive in holistic, compassionate care. We’re here to support your journey every step of the way.

Keywords: Holistic nursing certification, integrative health training for nurses, mind-body nursing courses, patient-centered care certification, nurse burnout prevention course, mindfulness training for nurses, compassionate care nursing training, functional nutrition training for nurses, holistic wellness programs for healthcare workers, evidence-based holistic nursing programs.

The Root Cause That Isn’t Being Addressed

Functional medicine has been a significant movement in healthcare, focusing on the root cause of illness by treating the patient holistically rather than just addressing symptoms. It operates under the principle that by identifying and addressing these root causes, practitioners can support the body in restoring health. However, while functional medicine is a big step in the right direction, it often lacks a critical component: an understanding of our energetic and spiritual nature. This missing piece may indeed be the root cause that isn’t yet being addressed.

This holistic perspective is one reason why I chose to become a Naturopathic Doctor rather than a Nurse Practitioner or Medical Doctor. Naturopathic medicine not only emphasizes identifying root causes and using natural therapies but also honors the Vis Medicatrix Naturae – the body’s innate healing force. This concept, often overlooked in functional medicine and certainly in conventional medicine, is like the tuning of an instrument; when our vital force is in balance, the entire system functions harmoniously. However, when it falls out of tune, similar to a guitar out of tune, it can create ripple effects throughout our organ systems, affecting health and vitality.

Quantum medicine, which recognizes that our consciousness and energy fields are deeply interconnected with our physical bodies, builds on this principle. Ancient medical systems like Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Unani, along with more contemporary approaches such as German New Medicine and Homeopathy, have long understood this. Louise Hay’s book, "You Can Heal Your Life," also speaks to this concept: our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions can either support or hinder our health.

When the root cause of imbalance is an untuned vital force, therapies that address both the physical and energetic bodies—such as reiki, homeopathy, Bach flower essences, and acupressure—can be highly effective. When combined with supportive physical therapies like nutrition, yoga, and breathwork, these practices create a truly integrative healing experience. By supporting the balance of this vital force, we can promote deep shifts in health that go beyond symptom relief to support body, mind, and spirit alignment.

At Nurses for Natural Health, we are committed to this truly integrative approach. By empowering nurses to work with both the body and energy fields, we help bring harmony to our clients’ lives. This vision goes beyond the limitations of functional medicine to embrace a paradigm where holistic healing is fully possible, helping clients find balance in the most profound ways.

Acupressure: The Power of Touch in Emotional Healing

When we think of acupressure, we usually focus on its most well-known uses, such as easing nausea or relieving migraines. Yet, one of the most powerful applications of acupressure lies in emotional healing—a vital tool for holistic nurses and healthcare professionals aiming to elevate their careers. This ancient practice can be transformative, helping individuals navigate strong emotions like grief, panic, and anxiety. For trauma-informed holistic nurses and nurse coaches, acupressure offers a unique, gentle approach to supporting emotional healing, creating space for transformation and deep well-being.

A key reason acupressure is effective in emotional healing is its foundation in Traditional Chinese Medicine’s (TCM) 5 Element Theory. In this framework, each organ system and its corresponding meridian pathway carry distinct emotional tendencies, meaning that by supporting an organ system, we can help clear emotional blockages and improve energy flow. This technique allows nurses to enhance emotional well-being through natural touch.

For instance, the lung and large intestine meridians are associated with processing grief and letting go. If a patient is working through grief, stimulating points like *LU9* (Lung 9) and *LI4* (Large Intestine 4) can help soothe sorrow and nurture feelings of joy and presence. The heart meridian is also beneficial, as it helps calm emotional overwhelm by “calming the shen,” or spirit. Points along the heart meridian can be used to foster emotional resilience and internal peace, making acupressure a powerful tool for trauma-informed care.

When addressing anxiety, working with the kidney meridian is especially effective. In TCM, the kidney system governs our sense of safety, stability, and inner calm. Kidney points, such as K3(Kidney 3), are deeply grounding and help release the fear and tension that can accompany anxiety, providing a natural alternative to calm the nervous system.

Integrating acupressure techniques into nursing practice can offer holistic nurses a unique way to support emotional healing, build patient trust, and elevate their careers in holistic health. Whether in acute care, mental health support, or wellness coaching, these acupressure techniques enable nurses to address the emotional needs of their patients—setting the foundation for a truly compassionate, patient-centered practice.

Glow from the Inside Out: How Holistic Nurses Can Help Transform Your Beauty Routine

Foods rich in Vitamin C can help support healthy skin.

Stress can do more than drain your energy—it can also affect your physical appearance. Puffy eyes, dark circles, breakouts, and dull skin are common signs of what’s sometimes called "cortisol face." As the body's main stress hormone, cortisol can lead to water retention and metabolic changes that result in a bloated, uneven complexion. While some influencers attribute facial changes to weight loss, holistic nurses understand that the underlying issue is often deeper: chronic stress.

As a holistic nurse, you are uniquely positioned to help others not only manage stress but also improve their natural beauty through holistic approaches. Incorporating natural therapies like lymphatic facial massage and facial acupressure can reduce puffiness, improve circulation, and promote skin elasticity. These techniques help drain excess fluids and stimulate collagen production, leaving skin more toned and radiant.

Lymphatic Massage Exercise:

1. Start with clean hands and apply a gentle facial oil (I recommend jojoba). Please note that Lymphatic massage involves VERY light touch.

2. Using the pads of your fingers, begin at the center of your forehead and gently sweep outwards towards the temples.

3. Move down to your cheeks, sweeping from the sides of the nose toward the ears in light, upward motions.

4. Under your jawline, gently press and move from the chin outward toward the base of your ears.

5. Finish by lightly pressing down the sides of your neck toward your collarbone, encouraging lymphatic drainage.

Repeat each motion 5–10 times.

Nutrition is another powerful tool for supporting healthy skin. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which keeps the skin firm and youthful. Holistic nurses can guide their clients in incorporating foods rich in vitamin C—such as oranges, bell peppers, and kiwi—into their diets to boost collagen synthesis. Foods like bone broth, high in collagen, can further strengthen the skin’s structure from within.

Holistic nurses can also recommend phytonutrient-rich foods like blueberries and green tea (containing EGCG), which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that nourish the skin. Herbs like calendula and cleavers support lymphatic drainage and detoxification, which also contribute to a healthy, glowing complexion.

By integrating beauty tips into their practice, holistic nurses help clients manage stress, rejuvenate their skin, and build confidence in a way that aligns with natural health principles. With the right blend of nutrition, therapy, and mindfulness, it’s possible to look and feel radiant despite life’s stressors.

Want to learn how nutrition can improve your skin and overall health? Join our 'Certificate in Integrative and Functional Nutrition for Nurses' program and discover the beauty-boosting power of food. Sign up today to achieve a glowing complexion and vibrant health!

Functional Approach to Fertility by Jessica Joseph, Fertility RN

Functional Approach to Fertility can include nutrition and lifestyle management

One in four women of reproductive age in the United States will have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term, according to the CDC.  As a fertility nurse, most of my career focused on clinical interventions to help patients get pregnant.  Interventions such as guiding patients on how to take the medication Clomid or assisting with IVF treatments to tackle infertility.  A common thread I found in many of my patients is the desire to take more control over their reproductive health.  To address their needs, I have transitioned my career by launching a fertility consulting business.  My methods now involve helping couples optimize fertility holistically, taking an organic approach before seeking fertility treatments. 

While I do not discount the conventional approach, as I have witnessed the profound impact of fertility treatments, I firmly believe that a functional approach to fertility will improve the odds for many couples.  It is worth noting that whether you are trying to conceive naturally or through treatment, your overall health should be the cornerstone of your fertility journey.  Even though the functional approach does not overly rely on medications or treatment, it still poses challenges for some as it requires accountability and self-reliance. 

Nutrition and reproductive health have an intricate connection. Strategic foods can help promote fertility, especially if you struggle with ovulation, have a thin uterine lining or unbalanced hormones, or might have a condition such as PCOS or endometriosis. Certain supplements will also help. However, my basic approach is foods first and supplements second since the bioavailability of nutrients differs vastly based on the source. 

Sleep is just as crucial as nutrition (if not more important) since it regulates hormones. In particular, the reproductive hormones FSH and LH and the adrenal hormone cortisol, which, although not a reproductive hormone, still impacts fertility. If cortisol is constantly elevated, it may affect a woman’s ability to ovulate. Melatonin also rises in sleep, which is critical for egg quality. 

Exercise is another aspect of fertility that is often dismissed.  Exercise increases blood flow to the uterus and manages glucose and insulin levels, which, if elevated, affect your ability to get pregnant.  Furthermore, if you are trying to achieve a healthy weight to get pregnant, you will benefit from aerobic exercise and strength training. 

Adopting a functional approach to fertility empowers you to take control of your reproductive health. Addressing the underlying factors that affect fertility will cultivate an increased chance of conception. Ultimately, this approach not only enhances the chances of pregnancy but also promotes overall health and well-being for those on their path to parenthood.

About Our Guest Blogger:

Jessica Joseph of Guided Fertility, LLC 

Jessica Joseph, RN, BSN, MHA, is passionate about reproductive health and wellness. She founded Guided Fertility™, LLC, a virtual service offering fertility consultations to empower individuals through evidence-based education. She has over a decade of experience as a fertility nurse.

Jessica regularly writes for Fertility Outloud, where she has several published articles on various fertility topics.  In addition, she is a hormone health coach for Mira Fertility, providing her clients with in-depth hormone evaluation based on their Mira hormone data.  

Her credentials include:

●      ASRM certification in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI)

●      AHNA certification in Functional Nutrition

●      Marquette Model certification for Natural Family Planning (NFP)

●      Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing (SUNY Delhi)

●      Masters Degree in Health Administration (Hofstra University)

●      Licensed RN in NY

To find out more about her services or for inquiries, please use the information below:

Website: www.guidedfertilityrn.com

Email: info@guidedfertilityrn.com

Instagram: @guidedfertility3

Facebook: Guided Fertility

No Really, How Are You?

Finding the balance between caregiving and self-giving can be challenging as holistic nurses, but it may be the key to preventing burnout. 

When someone asks, "How are you?" do you respond with a reflexive “Good!” accompanied by an upbeat tone, even if that’s not the whole truth? This social norm often masks deeper realities. As holistic nurses, you manage the emotional weight of your own well-being while tending to the needs of others. What if you’re seen starting to fall apart? Will it change how others perceive you or affect your role?

The Phenomenon of Restraint Collapse

In my work with clients, particularly those dealing with PTSD, I frequently observe a phenomenon called "Restraint Collapse." This occurs when the immense effort to maintain composure, regulate their internal emotions while navigating their daily stressors becomes so overwhelming that the nervous system eventually breaks down. It’s akin to winding a spring too tightly; it can only hold so much pressure before it unravels.

Our nervous systems are dynamic, capable of winding and unwinding like a spring. Under constant pressure, we’re winding ourselves up, and eventually, we might experience a collapse. As nurses in sometimes high-stress environments, we sometimes have to CONTAIN ourselves and keep it together for someone else’s sake. Recognizing this process helps us understand that it’s okay to let go and fall apart at times. These moments of vulnerability are not weaknesses but can be sources of profound strength and growth.

Embracing Our Humanity

Holding it together and falling apart don’t need to be rigid extremes we endure. Sometimes it starts with really asking ourselves and authentically answering: “How am I?” Embracing our humanity means accepting our vulnerabilities and acknowledging that it’s okay to not have everything together all the time. These moments can lead to deeper self-awareness and resilience.

Navigating Our Emotional Landscapes

Interception—the ability to sense and understand our internal states—is key to navigating our emotional landscapes. By tuning into our emotions, we can better manage our responses and find strength in our vulnerabilities. Authentic conversations about our true feelings allow us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. To gain more interception, I invite you to try this exercise in a quiet, safe and undisturbed space:

• What do I notice in my body? Notice what is happening in your body without any judgement

• Name any emotions that may come up: “I feel__________”

• Normalize your reaction. By normalizing, we make space for our tolerance of our experience. Avoid minimizing, shaming or catastrophizing, as this can amplify what is already a difficult experience for us. If this is difficult for you, imagine a good friend or loved one saying, “You’re struggling because this is hard.”

• Nurture yourself with self-care. Take a few deep breaths. Reach out to a trusted friend. Take a bath. Do the things that will help you emotionally support yourself.

Caregiving vs. Self-giving

Our caregiving roles often overshadows self-care and self-giving, leading to a critical imbalance. As holistic nurses, prioritizing self-care is essential because it affirms that we, too, are important. This deliberate focus on our own well-being creates the space necessary to recharge and maintain our resilience. By ensuring we nurture ourselves, we enhance our capacity to meet the demands of our profession effectively, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and fulfilling approach to both our personal and professional lives.

---

If you’re ready to explore these concepts further, join us at the Natural Nurse Summit on October 12. This event will offer a space for genuine connection, self-reflection, and practical strategies to navigate and embrace your vulnerabilities. Reserve your spot today and take a step towards a more balanced and authentic approach to your holistic practice.

The Top 10 Tips for Sustainable Weight Loss

Delicious chia seed pudding is packed with Omega 3s, which can help reduce inflammation and increase satiety.

As healthcare professionals, we know that food is powerful medicine, but even we can struggle with weight loss, especially under stress. Achieving sustainable weight loss isn’t just about cutting calories—it's about balancing hormones, reducing inflammation, and nourishing your body. By incorporating food as medicine, we can create lasting change.

Here’s Dr Vanessa’s 10-step checklist to use food and lifestyle as tools for weight loss:

1. 10,000 Steps per Day: Boost metabolism and improve circulation by walking 10,000 steps a day. Walking is a natural stress reliever and supports weight management.

2. Intermittent Fasting (12 Hours Overnight): Giving your digestive system a break with at least 12 hours of fasting overnight stabilizes insulin levels and supports fat burning, which can be especially helpful during stressful times. While 12 hours is recommended, it is based on how well you can tolerate fasting. For some, it could be 8 hours and working your way up to 12.

3. 7-8 Hours of Sleep: Stress often impacts sleep, and lack of sleep leads to weight gain. Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep to keep hormones like cortisol and ghrelin in check and to support metabolism.

4. Handful of Protein at Every Meal: Protein is your ally. It keeps blood sugar stable and curbs cravings. Incorporating a serving of protein at every meal will help you stay satisfied and nourish your muscles.

5. Probiotics or Fermented Foods (2 Servings Daily): A healthy gut is essential for weight loss. Include 2 servings of fermented foods like sauerkraut or yogurt, or take a quality probiotic to promote gut health and metabolism.

6. Time Your Carbs for the First Half of the Day: To stabilize energy levels, enjoy complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes in the morning and afternoon. End your day with a low-carb, low-fat dinner to promote fat burning overnight.

7. Lemon Water Before Coffee: Start your day with a glass of lemon water to support digestion, stimulate the liver and hydration before your coffee. This simple habit can reduce cravings and improve your body’s alkalinity.

8. 3 Grams of Omega-3s Daily: Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and promote weight loss. Get 3 grams daily through foods like chia seeds (1 tbsp), flaxseeds (1.5 tbsp), or hemp seeds (3 tbsp).

9. Limit Omega-6 Intake to Under 5g Daily: Omega-6 fatty acids, found in processed foods, vegetable and seed oils can increase inflammation. Reducing your intake to under 5 grams a day supports better metabolic health.

10. 5-10 Minutes of Grounding or Meditation Daily: Stress management is critical for weight loss. Take 5-10 minutes daily to practice grounding or meditation to lower cortisol and bring balance to your hormones.

Incorporating food as medicine into your daily life can help you regain control of your health, even in stressful times. How many of these are you engaging in? Share these steps with your patients and practice them yourself for lasting, meaningful results.

Ready to use nutrition in your clinical practice? Get your Certificate in Functional Nutrition today!