There will be plenty to see and hear at the 17th annual Oceanside Family Health and Wellness Fair on Saturday, March 31 but if you get overwhelmed by all the information being presented, there will be help for that.
A labyrinth is being created on the stage of the Parksville Community and Conference Centre (PCCC) to provide a calming oasis amidst the hubbub of the busy event.
Holly Carnegie Letcher is an Occupational Therapist and Reiki Practitioner who offers emotional and spiritual health and wellness at her Oceanside Pathways 2 Wellness practice and she will be on hand to guide people through the peaceful pathway.
She said a labyrinth is an ancient all inclusive cross cultural symbol that is found throughout the world and walking through it promotes relaxation.
“There are so many health benefits to it. It is great for stress management because it illicits the relaxation response which decreases the heart rate and blood pressure,” she stated.
She said even though it will be loud and busy in the main hall, walking the labyrinth provides an opportunity for quiet contemplation and self-reflection.
“It is different every single time you walk it. There are many ways to walk it … it is as unique as each individual who walks it.
“It really is an all inclusive health and wellness tool.”
Accompanied by the soothing music of local guitarist Peter Jack Rainbird, the labyrinth offers an opportunity to connect with self, others, nature and/or higher power simply by putting one foot in front of the other.
Parksville Pharmasave Natural Health educator Lisa Leger who has been busy organizing the health and wellness fair is happy with the mix of exhibitors who will be on hand this Saturday.
“There is going to be a lot of information and people all under one roof. You shouldn’t have to decide if you are going … why would you not go … its free information,” she admitted.