A new group is forming in Peterborough, and you may want to take notice. Under the umbrella of The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, holistic practitioners and businesses will be coming together to use their powers for good. The group aims to offer peer support as well as to let the community in Peterborough become more aware of the richness an diversity that is available here in the healing arts.

Some of the practitioners and businesses have been offering services in Peterborough for 30 years or more, and there are many modalities offered that are safe and effective to use alongside medical health care—everything from naturopathy and massage to acupuncture, herbalism, nutrition, cranial sacral or reiki. If there is a healing modality, chances are that Peterborough has it, and the Holistic Group wants you to know about it. We are virtually Sedona North!

Holistic practitioners have been like a silent partner in Peterborough, diligently working in their practices. If you start to dig deeper, you will discover how much influence that these practitioners have on the physical, emotional and mental health of Peterborough citizens. The Peterborough Chamber Holistic Group hopes to showcase the dedication and professionalism available in this region and perhaps introduce the idea of holistic healing to those who have not yet considered it. Holistic businesses contribute to our local economy and could become a draw to outside communities as well. Adding a relaxing treatment to dinner and a show would make a perfect weekend getaway for someone who lives in a bustling city.

There is an African proverb that says "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." That is exactly what this partnership is about. Innovation is alive and well in Peterborough. This is a group of inspired individuals who not only work for the wellness of their clients, but are committed to coming together for the wellness of this community. Some of the sparkly ideas brewing already include:

- Professional Development Workshops
- Dedicated Webpage
- Dedicated Search Function which flags your business as
“Holistic”
- Dedicated Facebook page and Twitter handle
- Promotion of the Holistic Group to the Community and the rest of
the Chamber members

Those interested in being part of a group like this can contact the Chamber of Commerce and attend the first information night on May 28th in the Chamber board room at 7 p.m. Chamber membership is not required to attend, but you should RSVP to reception@peterboroughchamber.ca. For more details on what the group has to offer, visit the link here.

—by Marianne Beacon, RH

Marianne is a Registered Clinical Herbalist, Bowen Therapist, Reiki Master and Transpersonal Psychotherapist. She has offered her services in Peterborough since 2002. Her business, Elderberry Herbals, offers a Community Supported Herbalism program. You can contact her at
info@elderberryherbals.ca, or visit her website at Elderberryherbals.ca.

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