Burman University is excited to announce the first Lifestyle Medicine and Flourishing Symposium happening from May 1 to 4 in beautiful Banff, Alberta. This event promises to be an enriching experience, featuring impressive speakers and engaging sessions on lifestyle medicine.
Dr. Pekka Maattanen, chair of biology at Burman, emphasizes the significance of this event. "We’re raising awareness in Canada about Lifestyle Medicine," he says. This concept is about more than just eating well or exercising. It’s about adopting habits that promote overall well-being.
Recent research highlights the importance of lifestyle in health. According to a 2023 study by the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, individuals who embrace lifestyle changes can reduce their risk of chronic diseases by 50%. Dr. Maattanen notes that it’s a shift from merely preventing illness to also treating and even reversing health issues through lifestyle changes. This makes it not just effective but cost-efficient as well.
However, implementing these changes isn’t always easy. "Patients need to actively participate in their care," Maattanen explains. Education for healthcare professionals is key to guiding patients through these lifestyle transformations.
The symposium will delve into six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine: restorative sleep, a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, stress management, avoiding risky substances, and fostering positive social connections. Research shows that these pillars contribute immensely to our health and well-being. They can work together to create a powerful healing effect.
The keynote speaker for the event, John Kelly, is the founding president of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He will kick things off on May 1 with a talk titled "Lifestyle Medicine, Epigenetics, and the Future of Medicine." Attendees can look forward to morning exercise sessions followed by talks on the mind-body connection and gut health, featuring respected professionals like Mylène Juneau, MD, and Lisa Lindquist, RD.
A special feature of the event is its move to Banff for one night. Attendees will enjoy sessions and a scenic walk along the Bow River, showcasing the natural beauty of the area.
This symposium is a golden opportunity for local physicians and community members to learn from experts and network with like-minded individuals. Burman University has also established a LIFEstyle Medicine and Flourishing Centre to further promote research and education in this vital area.
If you’re interested in empowering your health through lifestyle changes, this symposium is a great place to start. For more details and registration, you can visit Burman University’s event page.
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Community|Health