Quinnipiac’s School of Health Sciences and the Connecticut Holistic Health Association sponsored a holistic health fair this past Saturday in Alumni Hall.

The event showcased the many holistic health applications available in the Connecticut area. Representatives from various alternative health care fields were available to discuss their respective practices and to distribute literature, pamphlets, books and other informational material to the Quinnipiac community.

Holistic health typically refers to alternative methods of healthcare that do not involve traditional medicine. According to definition, holistic healthcare seeks optimal integration of body, mind, emotions and spirit.

Holistic medicine is a system of interaction and growth, which focuses on root causes rather than treating symptoms with emphasis placed on natural approaches to healing.

Some of the 40 exhibits included Reiki, energy healing, meditation, nutrition, yoga, massage, sports medicine, reflexology, Feng Shui, day spa services, acupuncture, aromatherapy and breathing techniques.

An exhibit on stress management was a popular area, particularly among students. Barbara Eler, Ph.D., R.D.T. of Danbury was on hand with a sheet entitled “Suggestions for Easing Stress: Mind-Body Approaches.”

Representatives from the group Champions International offered their unique “listening network” to young adults seeking coaching and guidance in their lives.

Similar to this was a “Life Purpose Coaching” exhibit. Ellen Kratka, a life purpose coach, explained how her services would “create an inspired life and the guidance to discover the full potential of your mind, body and spirit.”

Some practitioners gave free opportunities for the public to experience such practices as sound and vibrational healing, light therapy and reflexology. Attendees were also able to participate in interactive workshops.

According to the Connecticut Holistic Health Association brochure, the association is dedicated to the support of a broad scope of holistic practitioners while promoting partnerships with conventional medicine, academia, industry, and government agencies throughout Connecticut.

Membership is open to practitioners, students and individual supporters of holistic healthcare.

Additional information on the Connecticut Holistic Health Association can be obtained either on the web at cthha.org or by calling 860-258-6010.

Interested students can receive information regarding meetings, seminars and workshops involving the art, science and philosophy of holistic healthcare. They can also find out more about the practices listed above, as well as where they can receive these treatments.