Senior Project

The first thing that came to mind when asked about senior project was medicine. I wanted to do something that would enhance my understanding of the medical field. But my interest in medicine is not confined to the drugs one purchases at the pharmacy. I had always wanted to explore the world of naturopathic/homeopathic medicine and healing. I then realized it was an incredibly broad field to tackle. I decided that my paper would focus on the influences of eastern, traditional medicine on the western medicine and that for my project I would host a seminar in March aimed at students who are approaching AP testing. This seminar would include natural, safe, and easy ways to relieve stress and pain. For this I would be showing my fellow peers self acupressure/massage on certain points of the body, scents to calm anxiety, stretches, etc. I know firsthand how stressful the month of April is for AP students. It's the last stretch and students are likely to take more than one. When I had my first test my sophomore year, I made sure to relax my body, rub my temples, and to concentrate my breathing. Having trained in massage and reiki, I knew enough about the human body to know the areas where I could touch or press to relieve stress. In an environment like the testing rooms in the district building, it is very easy to roll your shoulders or give yourself a quick massage. I noticed my friends did not do similar things and they remained stressed and in pain. I want to help students at Napa High know how to avoid or decrease such discomfort.