The mythical cities of Shangri-La and Shambhala merged with the Mayo Clinic Saturday afternoon at the United Church of Gainesville.
About 30 representatives from health and New Age-related organizations displayed pamphlet-covered booths and tables inside the church’s atrium. They used the materials to promote their businesses at the Gainesville Holistic Health Fair, which is held every year.
Hundreds of locals braved the rain to learn about dozens of holistic well-being issues, such as geological healing, positive thinking and water birthing.
Vendors talked to visitors about the histories and scientific validations of their goods and services.
“There are different approaches for becoming whole,” said 49-year-old Jeanne Dickman-Vuille, who was visiting from Switzerland. “These are ways to enhance your life.”
And for those less eager than Dickman-Vuille, holistic health practitioners had to find more persuasive methods, such as free therapy sessions, to entice potential clients.
“The needles are small,” said Leona Harter of the Academy for Five Element Acupuncture. “And we bribe you with chocolate cookies.”
