Debra Lermitte, Know Thyself Nutritional Program

In the summer of 2008, the Holistic Health Junkie and I went through an early version of the Know Thyself Nutritional Program, run by the ever talented Debra Lermitte. The core of the program is a structured elimination diet aimed at helping participant target what’s standing in the way of optimal health.

Debra and her husband, Chris, are quite the holistic health dynamic duo. In addition to running Know Thyself, Debra also has an eco-friendly cleaning company, and Chris is a massage therapist who incorporates Reiki into his practice. Debra has also studied Reiki and gave me a brief treatment a few years ago. Although she’s not a formal Reiki practitioner, I wanted to hear her point of view on this modality. Here’s what she has to share:

1. What is the most rewarding aspect of this career?

While I do not have a private Reiki practice, I do practice Reiki on myself and on my grown children on occasion.  My husband, Chris, is a massage therapist and he incorporates it into his massage therapy practice regularly.  People often remark that he has healing hands.  I think Reiki helps heal the mind and the spirit along with the body, and because of this, reaches into so many aspects and levels of a person’s life.

2. What sort of training is required?

Chris and I went through a weekend Reiki level 1 training program together.  It was fun and amazing.

3. How did you know this career was right for you?

A friend first told me about Reiki and conducted a full body Reiki session on me.  It was wonderful.  I loved the concept of healing yourself and others through touch.

4. Would this career work well as a part time gig?

Definitely.

5. In your opinion, is this a good career for a working mother?

Yes, provided she is organized and, most of all, wants to help people be/become healthy.

6. Generally speaking, how is the earning potential?

I think, unfortunately, given the present economic times, that the earning potential is lower than other times.  It would require an educational component so that potential clients understand how the benefits outweigh the cost when the budget is tight.  If you can practice in a wealthier and/or more educated area, the earning power increases.

7. Any words of wisdom for someone interested in following this path?

Follow your heart.  And have a good business plan if starting your own practice.

Teaching clients how to shop for healthy eats at Whole Foods.

8. Anything else you’d like us to know?

The available alternative health options have never been better and the general public is becoming increasing aware of the benefits of looking outside the conventional medical ‘box.’

As co-owner business owner and facilitator of the Know Thyself Nutritional Program, it is rewarding and an honor to help people.   Know Thyself cultivates and promotes the personal experience of health and vitality through the elimination diet process, and our group sessions provide an opportunity for guided and supported self-discovery.  Participants have amazing results – they lose weight, gain energy, experience clearer thinking, heal ongoing issues, feel great and more.