The vision for the Pacific Naturopathic Retreat Center...

has evolved through the work and study of Connie and Marcel Hernandez, Hawaii-licensed naturopathic physicians. The vision has matured over the past twenty -five years, reflecting an integration of the teachings of a number of inspired teachers and groups. The resulting synthesis has focused on physical, emotional, mental and spiritual wellness and on human relationships with each other, with other living entities, and with our planet.

Pacific Naturopathic Retreat Center is a multi-purpose facility providing a variety of services. It houses a working naturopathic medical clinic where local residents and visitors receive naturopathic medical care. It is a residential health retreat center, assisting people in achieving wellness and balance in their lives. It offers seclusion to small groups and teachers for residential seminars in the healing arts. It is also a simple guest facility where visitors can rest, relax, bask in the beauty of Hawaii, receive holistic evaluation and treatments and explore options for a healthier life.

The setting is within a young orchard and farm, specializing in edible landscaping and exotic tropical fruits, vegetables and flowers. The heart of the land is an international peace garden, a stone wall circle surrounded by a mock orange hedge and centered on a peace pole dedicated on January 1, 2000. All facilities are ecologically designed with environmentally sensitive guests in mind.

Pacific Naturopathic Retreat Center is based on the principles of traditional naturopathic medicine. Naturopathic medicine addresses disharmony on all levels of being: physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social. In addition to promoting natural healing on the physical level, Pacific Naturopathic Retreat Center reflects the perspectives that healing occurs through attunement with spirit and nature, and that spiritual healing can precipitate healing on all other levels.

The retreat center moves away from standardized and depersonalized care, to individualized care in an atmosphere of health promotion and wellness. Our work is focused on many levels, as the individual's awareness, needs and desires dictate. Naturopathic medical philosophy and practice stresses trust in and co-operation with Vix Medicatrix Naturae, or the healing power of nature. Stimulation of this vital force within each person is the beginning of our work.

The therapeutic approach reflects the founders' training and clinical experience in aspects of naturopathy and their immersion over time in a variety of spiritual paths and disciplines. Therapies include botanical and nutritional medicine, hydrotherapy, homeopathy and other energy medicine, as well as counseling and breathing and meditation techniques. Associated local health practitioners provide massage, yoga therapy, movement therapies, and other types of healing.