Columbus Naturopathic Blog
Reflections on health and our ultimate source of healing
Morning mist over Blue Mountain Lake, NY
Autumn brush at Thatcher Woods in River Forest, IL
Seasonal Health: Light & Life
Did You Know? The light patterns shift more quickly around the spring and autumn equinoxes. The pineal gland is highly sensitive to light, which controls our circadian rhythms, endocrine system, and energy levels.
Health Tip: Get sunshine when you can! Take a cue from cultures that endure long winters. In Nordic countries, people prioritize spending time outdoors at midday — 15 minutes of sunlight on the face can do wonders to reset your internal clock and lift your mood.
Scripture: Our ultimate source of light and life comes from above. (John 8:12)
Blog Posts
On Head & Heart
As naturopathic doctors, we emphasize behavioral changes to support healing. This reflects the modern belief that the mind is the center of a person. The mind is capable of reason, and therefore rules over...
On First Fruits
This is easy in theory and difficult in practice. The seasons of my life when I struggle in vain are a result of my disregard to this concept. It is rare when I...
On Beneficial Adversaries
Play indicates a person is developing at an ideal rate. The concept was esoteric at first. I associate play with children and toys. But play can correspond to any age or situation. Play is using...
On Redemption
In light of Holy Week, it is fitting to reflect on redemption. In a Christian context, redemption is the process of making all things new. It is the story arch of the Bible from...
On Fellowship
Today I reflect on fellowship. My family and I will be moving in May. As we approach the transition, I am appreciative for community. Aside from my husband, my church family has been my...
Autumn tree in Glen Ellyn, IL
On Writing
I have enjoyed the practice of writing since I first learned as a child. These posts were written for the NUHS Blog, and I intend to resume the habit soon.
I came to enjoy Monday mornings — withdrawing to the library or clinic sauna to cocoon into a world of my own and contemplate health and healing.
A lot of help comes from my husband, Matthew. He walks with me daily to challenge and clarify the topics I wrestle with — things like meaning, truth, identity, mortality, marriage, friendship, work, beauty, forgiveness, and suffering — all within the context of our Christian faith.
Most of these walks occurred at Panfish Park in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. This is a picture of the entrance to the path off Pershing Avenue. It served as an echo of Eden for me — a walled garden where I could commune and replenish at a time I needed it most.
Thank you for reading! If you would like to write a post, please reach out. I would be delighted to share the work of a fellow writer.
—Leah G.