As part of their curriculum, the second year M.Sc. Clinical Psychology students from the Post Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology, St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru visited the SDM Naturopathy Centre in Ujjire on 27 March 2024. The primary objective of the visit was to gain insights into various holistic approaches to disease and lifestyle management, understand the principles underlying naturopathy, explore the treatments offered, and observe the benefits experienced by patients from these practices. Upon arrival, Dr Kavya from the Department of Hydrotherapy provided an overview of various treatments including mud therapy, hydrotherapy, fasting therapy, yoga therapy, diet therapy, acupuncture, and foot reflexology. She elaborated on the indications and contraindications of each treatment. Some students also participated in acupuncture sessions under the guidance of Dr Kavya and her team. Later, Dr Sujatha, Head of Department and Principal of the Naturopathy Department, conducted an orientation session on the ‘Integrated Approach of Yoga and Naturopathy in Psychology.’ She explained how treatments provided at the center are rooted in the concept of the five elements – space, air, fire, water, and earth, and elucidated the benefits associated with each treatment.
The visit provided valuable insights into the principles and practices of naturopathic medicine. The students observed the center’s commitment to promoting holistic wellness through natural therapies. The integration of traditional healing modalities with contemporary healthcare practices was particularly inspiring. Overall, the field visit to SDM Naturopathy Centre was enriching and educational for the students. It deepened their understanding of holistic approaches to health and reinforced the importance of considering alternative therapies in clinical psychology practice.
