Florence Nightingale is one of the towering figures of the nineteenth century. The fundamental principles of holistic nursing are based on her philosophies of caring for the whole person - mind, body and spirit. For this reason, holistic nurses join together each year during Nurses Week (May 6-12, 2007) to show their gratitude for Nightingale's great contributions to both modern health care and holistic nursing.

The American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) originated the Florence Nightingale Commemorative Moment in 2000 as a celebration of nursing's best-known contributor and ended up launching a worldwide movement. The rapidly spreading interest in Nightingale's influence has created events and connections throughout the world.

AHNA members around the country are taking time to celebrate and reflect on the life of Florence Nightingale. Nurses are honoring this day by meeting with other nurses, holding candlelight vigils, participating in "Blessing of the Hands" ceremonies and much more. For a calendar of nationwide Nightingale events, visit http://www.ahna.org/events/nightingale.html. More information about the eighth annual Nightingale Moment and tips on how to celebrate can also be found at the AHNA Web site.

Founded in 1981, AHNA is a non-profit membership association for nurses and other holistic healthcare professionals with headquarters in Flagstaff, Arizona. AHNA is the definitive voice for holistic nursing, and promotes the education of nurses, other healthcare professionals, and the public in all aspects of holistic caring and healing, serving as a bridge between conventional medicine and complementary and alternative healing practices. Holistic nursing is recognized by the American Nurses Association as an official nursing specialty with defined scope and standards of practice. For more information, visit www.ahna.org.