Alaia Harvie
UTS focuses on delivering a progressive, positive contribution to the world in which we live.
UTS focuses on delivering a progressive, positive contribution to the world in which we live.
Key research areas/interests: Chinese Medicine, Community Health, Cancer, Qigong
Principal Supervisor: Dr Amie Steel
Summary of research project
“Qigong as a Supportive Therapy in Cancer Survivorship”
Integral to health support and illness management in Classical Chinese Medicine are numerous lifestyle strategies, including exercises such as Tai Chi and Qigong which involve gentle breathing, stretching and walking techniques. Increasingly, studies are showing the benefits of such exercises for those suffering from chronic illness.
Guolin Walking Qigong is one such exercise technique which was developed for the specific support of those diagnosed with cancer. This project aims to examine the effects of Guolin Walking Qigong, as a supportive therapy, over a 100 day program, for those diagnosed with, or recovering from, cancer.
Why did you decide to embark on your research degree at the Faculty of Health at UTS?
Over the past six years I have been a lecturer at a Complementary Medicine college in Brisbane. In discussion with their research faculty, and due to their existing working relationship with UTS, I embarked on a research degree at the UTS Faculty of Health.
What contribution to knowledge are you planning to make with your research project?
It is the aim of the project to add to the literature on Classical Chinese Medicine techniques and the potential of these techniques in playing a supportive role in health management and health care. The results of this research will add to the literature on preventative and supportive health care for those with chronic illness.
Who will benefit from your research? How?
The results of the study have the potential to benefit individuals experiencing chronic health conditions and their family, friends and support networks, as well as the community as a whole, in improving health and well-being, and reducing the economic cost of illness. Globally and within Australia, the burden of chronic illness is increasing. Examination of low-cost, easily accessible methods of reducing this burden will provide a summary of best practice and potential methods of implementation for supportive and preventative care programs.
How did you go about selecting your supervisor?
Supervisor selection was integral to my research journey at UTS as it was through initial discussion with my principal supervisor that I decided to enroll in a research degree at UTS. Secondary supervisors were suggested through existing networks of my main supervisor. All have played an integral role in guiding me through my research degree.
What advice would you give to future research students thinking about starting a higher degree in research at the Faculty of Health?
The time and commitment element of undertaking a research degree is quite high and needs to be carefully considered in light of other commitments in relation to work, family and other ongoing aspects of one’s life.
How would you describe your research student experience at the Faculty of Health at UTS overall?
Becoming a part of the UTS community has been incredibly inspiring and motivating. The focus which UTS holds on delivering a progressive, positive, contribution to the world in which we live creates an atmosphere of encouragement and motivation for research students and instills a desire to contribute to the highest standard.
UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.