At Alliance Homecare, we know that wellness is more than just the absence of disease and we are committed to helping our clients define and achieve physical, mental and spiritual health. Sometimes that commitment requires a referral, which is why we have built a community of like-minded professionals. Today, we’re discussing self-care with our vetted referral partner, Julie Wald, founder of Namaste New York.
Mia Ross, RN: Thanks for taking time out to speak with us, Julie. Can you tell us a little bit about your business, Namaste New York?
Julie Wald: Namaste New York creates and delivers Personalized Wellness Programs for people with a wide range of needs. All of our Wellness Services are delivered to our clients in their homes, on their schedule. Whether clients are trying to navigate a stressful time in life, get in shape, (re)learn how to relax, heal an injury or find greater flexibility and balance – we match their needs with our world class “Wellness Professionals”. Namaste’s “Wellness Professionals” deliver the following modalities: Massage Therapy, Yoga, Personal Training, Meditation, and Pilates Instruction which can be intertwined to create a multi-modality experience.
Mia Ross, RN: How does self-care change as we age? What services would benefit our home health population?
Julie Wald: Self-care is a moving target and our needs shift as our circumstances change and evolve. Changes in balance, mobility, pain, levels and flexibility make routines more complicated and individual attention and customization truly necessary. Chair yoga, meditation, moderate movement/personal training, and massage therapy can all used safely and effectively within the home health population. Our multi-modality approach weaves together breath, movement, mindfulness and therapeutic touch, which are beneficial for any human being, at any age.
Mia Ross, RN: The idea of self-care is a relatively recent phenomenon in our culture. Many older adults seems skeptical of this practice and defer to a “no pain, no gain” attitude. How can we change this perception and assure older adults that wellness is worth their attention?
Julie Wald: For those who like data, more and more randomized, controlled research studies are proving the benefits of a wellness regime, particularly in contrast to the digital age we live in. These practices infuse us with life. Once older adults experience the results of having moved in a way that’s right for their body, and once they have linked movement with breath, they will see the benefits of self-care and believe in its worth. Meditation is a healthy way to deal with anxiety and stress, and can help with chronic pain management. We must meet older adults where they are and find a way to make daily wellness practices part of their world.
If you or someone you love is interested in a consultation with a wellness professional from Namaste New York, please contact Namaste New York at
