It was significant that the city of New York, where the Natural Hygiene Movement was established and where Rev. Dr. Sylvester Graham delivered his initial lectures, served as the location for the re-establishment of a national society on June 28, 1948. Dr. Shelton played a key role in this initiative. Dr. Herbert Shelton, Dr. William […]

The following individuals were the Founders of the ANHS in 1948: Dr. Herbert M. Shelton, Dr. William Esser, Christopher Gian-Cursio, Dr. Gerald Benesh, Dr. Jesse Mercer Gehman, Symon Gould, Jack Dunn Trop, and Irving Davidson.

The organization’s first convention took place in April 1949, during which the name American Natural Hygiene Society was officially adopted. Dr. Herbert Shelton, a key figure in the movement, played a pivotal role in securing the necessary funds for the event’s preparations. He also became the society’s first president, authored the organization’s constitution, and assumed […]

The President of the National Health Association (NHA) serves as the primary leader and representative of the organization, steering its vision, mission, and strategic direction. As a passionate advocate for public health, wellness, and sustainable living, the President is pivotal in shaping the NHA’s policies, initiatives, and outreach efforts to promote evidence-based health education. In […]

The Executive Director of the Association of Natural Hygiene/National Health Association serves as the organization’s chief operating leader under the President and is responsible for advancing its mission to promote health through education and the principles of Natural Hygiene. This role oversees daily operations, strategic planning, program development, and organizational growth. The Executive Director also […]

The National Health Association proudly honors the legacy and vision of its past leaders—extraordinary individuals whose dedication laid the groundwork for our enduring mission: to promote whole-food, plant-based nutrition and healthy lifestyle practices. These trailblazers led the Association through critical periods of growth and transformation, inspiring generations to pursue better health through education, advocacy, and […]

Beginning in the 1940s, visionary leaders of the Natural Hygiene Movement founded Hygienic Institutes—pioneering centers for health and wellness that welcomed thousands seeking to restore or enhance their well-being. These institutes became sanctuaries for those drawn to a holistic, natural approach to healing, with water fasting serving as a foundational element of the Natural Hygiene […]

Shortly after the founding of the ANHS in 1948, individual chapters were established in cities across the United States and Canada. These local chapters served as important centers for education, outreach, and community building, helping to spread the principles of Natural Hygiene to a wider audience. Members gathered for lectures, discussions, study groups, and public […]