Self-care is not selfish.
That message was the thread connecting presentations and interactive sessions at the Empowering Women’s Retreat, hosted by Community Healthcare System. The event, which took place April 20 at The Center for Visual and Performing Arts in Munster, drew women from across Northwest Indiana.
“This retreat is an opportunity for us to empower and encourage women,” said Debi Pillarella, executive director of integrative wellness and medical fitness services at Community Healthcare System. “It gives all of us the chance to take a moment and prioritize ourselves. We are no good to anybody unless we’re good to ourselves.”
The event featured a keynote presentation by Dr. Lamia Katbi, a pediatrician affiliated with Community Healthcare System. Katbi, who also is an author and speaker, talked about the importance of women prioritizing their health.
“I firmly believe that if you don't ‘fill your cup’ first, you can’t do anything for anyone else,” she said. “We at Community Healthcare System want to empower women to take care of their own health and fill their ‘cups.’ That way, they can have a ripple effect and help others. I want people to be curious about why they do things the way they do and I want them to take responsibility for their health and for their lives.”
In her presentation, Katbi discussed several of the topics covered in her book, “Just What the Doctor Ordered: The Five Pillars of Optimal Health.” She described the process she endured while seeking a more fulfilling life, and she detailed how to implement the five pillars of sleep, emotional health, mindful eating, intentional breath and physical activity to promote overall health.
The event featured several breakout sessions, including a self-defense seminar taught by Hammond Police and a financial management seminar with Lincoln Financial Group. Dr. LaChanda Dunlap-Wright, an obstetrician/gynecologist affiliated with Community Healthcare System, led a session called, “Intimate Inquiries: Ask A Doctor” in which participants asked questions about the changes women experience at different stages of life.
Attendees also received educational materials and information, and many participated in free health screenings.
To learn more information about Community Healthcare System, visit COMHS.org.
