We are pleased to announce that Dr. David Hamilton has joined the Carolinas Natural Health team. We know you’ll love working with him, and to help all of us get to know Dr. Dave, we put him on the hot seat with a few questions.
What is your educational background?
I have a Biomedical Science Degree (BS) from Lynchburg College in Lynchburg, VA and a Naturopathic Doctorate from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine
What would you like to tell us about your life outside of work?
My wife and I are urban homesteaders, and prior to moving to NC, we raised pastured chickens, turkeys, ducks, and dairy goats, along with an organic garden and orchard. As a couple, we taught people how to make their own medicine, garden in the desert, and live sustainably.
My wife and I love hiking in the mountains with our dogs. Spending time in nature is very grounding. We also love identifying medicinal plants on our hikes and knowing what is available to us in those “emergency situations.”
What drew you to holistic healthcare?
I’ve always had an affinity for nature. As I kid, I was happiest helping my parents grow things in the garden. This has influenced me greatly in the choices I continue to make in my life. So much so, my wife and I have created a small urban homestead in Phoenix, which we plan to recreate here in North Carolina.
What is your personal philosophy on holistic healthcare?
It is a personal adventure that only you as a patient can begin. As a naturopathic doctor, my duty is to teach you—as well as learn from you—to best individualize your path to health.
What are the top three things someone can do to improve his or her health in a relatively short time?
1. Go outside and get dirty! Whether it is a pot on your patio or a backyard garden, put your hands in the dirt and reconnect with the earth. Take part in growing your own food because FOOD IS MEDICINE!
2. Make time for yourself! Doing the things you love helps reduce stress. Your mental well-being affects how your body responds to illness, attitude, and the energy you put off to the world.
3. Laugh every day even if you have to fake it…Laughter releases endorphins, which improves overall health. Come see me and we can practice some laughter exercises in the office!
What is your favorite part of your job?
Empowerment of an individual! Giving someone the tools to make better choices for their body, mind, and spirit.
What is your least favorite part?
Not having enough of me or other naturopathic doctors to go around.
What would you like to see your patients do differently in 2014?
Ask questions, so they can take charge and become educated on their own bodies and health. Support local! Learn where your food comes from, take part in the process, and meet your farmers who are the foundation of our health.
If you had to name your one overriding passion in holistic healthcare, what would it be?
Herbs and food hands down. We have evolved with plants and our food sources for thousands of years. A symbiotic relationship has been created over time, and it is good to be reminded that we are all connected.
Although my hands are a close second. There is something magical and energizing about human touch. Using my hands to correct musculoskeletal misalignments can improve overall health from mind and mood to pain and illness.
