Those seeking holistic and alternative health treatments probably already know southwestern Montana has emerged as an area with many specialized offerings. Jefferson County resident Uschi Beck is working to expose and promote alternative medicines to everyone.
While maintaining an internet store, Beck is also a busy event organizer, putting together conferences and shows featuring alternative healing methods. Her current project is The Body Mind Spirit Health & Wellness Expo at the Helena Civic Center this Saturday, Oct. 19.
Beck says she is anticipating 80 vendors from Montana, South Dakota and Wyoming. Some other expositions in the region were canceled, she says, which made even more vendors available. “With recent cancellations of the holistic expos in Butte and Missoula, Helena has emerged as the largest and only holistic fall fair in Montana,” she said.
Uschi (a derivation of the name ‘Ursula’) Beck and her husband Barry first passed through Jefferson County in 1988 while traveling between Colorado and Alaska, exploring hot springs along the route. Beck says, “Two locations stood out: Liard River Hot Springs in British Columbia, and Boulder Hot Springs. We found ourselves repeatedly drawn back to Boulder, captivated by its charm. Eventually, we decided to make it our home.” The Becks have lived in the area for about six years now.
Beck worked for several years in alternative medicine, operating a small holistic store in Red Lodge that offered essential oils, flower essences, homeopathic remedies, and various European health products. “Over the past few decades, I’ve noticed a growing interest in natural and alternative lifestyles, as well as holistic healing approaches,” she said. “It’s an exciting time in the holistic health field.”
More recently, the expo has consumed much of her time, and that of her team of Angela Devani, Marcia Colver and Lorraina Szabo. “This expo actually began four years ago, just as we were emerging from the COVID-19 lockdowns,” Beck explains. She adds that interest in the expo has grown significantly since it was first conceived, and moved to a larger venue to make room for the exhibitors and speakers.
In its current form, the Expo offers “everything from cutting-edge vibrational technology and energy work to holistic animal care, natural products for healthy living, and various metaphysical services like psychic readings and shamanic practices,” she said. Beck is particularly excited about the keynote speakers, including morning speaker Dawna Campbell, who specializes in transforming lives through the power of mindset. In the afternoon, Lana Nelson is scheduled to talk about healthier eating ideas. The evening speaker is Kathleen Johns, best known for her work as a Psychic Medium and Energy Healer, according to Beck.
“I’ve always been passionate about connecting like-minded individuals,” Beck says, “I believe that by raising awareness about these alternative approaches, we can contribute to the overall health and well-being of our community.”
