Saved by the Bell

My journey from hopeless student to acquiring great passion for healing practices began many years ago. I have always been proud of the profession of medicine but without knowledge of traditional symbols and variations we use globally. Their history and meaning have ancient and modern roots.

In the U.S. around the late 19th century the use of twin intersecting snakes, a staff and wings became commonly known as Caduceus, a traditional symbol of Hermes, a Greek god, son of Zeus and Maia. Well known by ancient Greeks for his power as a protector of sorts, his mischief, trickery, and inventor of the alphabet and lyre musical instrument. He was also known for commerce, travel and trade. His winged sandals, helmet and staff enabled him to travel swiftly as a messenger between mortal and divine worlds.

The single snake and staff is the biblical Gold Serpent of Moses, turning a staff into a serpent for the Israelites against the Pharoah, and symbol for all those who had faith in God would be protected and prevail against rivals. It's also called the Rod of Asclepius, son of Apollo and demi-god and powerful healer in Greek mythology.

My interest in healing and medical practices randomly began in high school. A bored student craving an exit out of dull classes and a long day, I slyly calculated a bus ride midday to the technical school shaved off about 30 minutes.10th grade offered quarterly "exploratory" fun courses like drawing in Commercial Art, playing with plants in the greenhouse in Horticulture and Floriculture, and prepping and cooking in a kitchen in Food Preparation. To convince my parents to approve my academic scheme I added on Medical and Dental Assistance. It worked! "Sounds like a good idea for you, Gina" my dad said with relief his lost teenager might be saved, by a different kind of bell.

I loved all my courses but really excelled in health care. It all clicked. I was fascinated by the human body and our ability to comfort, assess and heal people. Surprisingly, I was good at it and learned easily. Anatomy and basic hands-on skills interested me so my junior and senior years at tech school included certifications as a Medical and Nursing Assistant before graduation. I recall my proud parents’ smiles. Without hesitation I decided to become an RN.

Sadly, I quickly realized I was not good with blood, wounds, and death. Not lasting long in a hospital setting, but long enough to have my "aha" moment. Looking down the hallway seeing patients with mostly self induced cardiac issues, I decided preventative, proactive medicine was my career path. I also recognized I was an empath, more sensitive than just sympathetic to people’s needs.

Many years later my next learning sparks still relate to health practices. Mind Body Wellness including yoga philosophy, Reiki energy healing. deeper connections with our Luminescent energy body and spiritual wisdom led me into teaching. I am a Fusion Explorer, a blending of knowledge and wisdom, ancient and modern just like these symbols.

What proverbial bell saved you, alerting you to find your way to mind, body and soul wellness? Maybe reflect and send gratitude for how they influenced your life and perhaps others.

Grateful Fusion Explorer of holistic medicine,

Gina

Fusion Owner, Registered Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master Teacher, R.N.

P.S. Stay tuned for upcoming special events like Waterside Sound Healing. Private Yoga Gatherings and Reiki sessions available now.

BREATHE. MOVE. CONNECT.