Start improving your health, today, with these 5 steps to holistic health and happiness.
Health can be explained in many ways, and while modern-day western medicine has brought many life saving advancements, it has its downfalls. One of these downfalls is what is often called the Siloh approach to health, which looks at the body in sections of individual symptoms and pieces, rather than the whole system that it really is.
Holistic health or Holistic healing is often defined as a form of healing that looks at the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. This type of healing sometimes includes multiple complementary medicines and alternative healthcare practices, that can over-lap with modern-day western medicine. But, these practices will go beyond singular treatments of symptoms, to support more than just the body. There are several alternative healthcare practices that are often found in the realm of holistic health, here are a few of them:
*Chiropractic *Herbalism * Massage *Yoga/Meditation *Acupuncture/Acupressure *Nutrition *Personal Training
When all of these complimentary therapies come together, for holistic healing, a person is much more likely to experience wellness on a deeper level. This will allow for a more joyful and truly healthy way of living.
To say that holistic health is important would be an understatement. While people are living longer these days, they are also experiencing chronically high levels of stress and fatigue. They are also consuming nutrient depleted foods and are, on a daily basis, exposed to hundreds of potentially damaging chemicals through air and water, as well as through cleaning and personal care products.
There are billions of people living on this earth; too many of them are living with chronic disease and unexplained symptoms. The modern-day healthcare industry has failed these sufferers. Everyone of the billions of people would be better off if we all took a holistic “whole-body” solution, as the standard way that we support our health.
Supporting the 5 Aspects of holistic health
The 5 Aspects of Holistic Health are as follows:
Physical – Emotional – Social – Spiritual – Mental
All of these aspects are what gives a person the ability to live each day in a happy and health way. If even one area is compromised, it is most likely that the others will be as well. When a person considers “health” overall, most think about physical health. This is most likely because it is the physical body that shows us physical signs and symptoms of either optimal health or sub-optimal health. It is also easier to track and monitor the physical symptoms versus other non-physical ones that can feel more abstract.
What you can do to support these aspects
When it comes to supporting your physical health, there are a few key practices that everyone can benefit from. These things can make a huge difference in your over-all wellbeing:
- Sleep for 8 hours each (this will give your body time to rest and repair)
- Eat a nutrient-dense diet that is high in plant-based foods
- Move your body for at least 30 minutes each day
- Limit processed foods and hydrogenated oils
- Do not smoke and avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Our emotional health should be considered as important as our physical health. This is especially true because our emotional health can affect our physical health if not prioritized. Here are some ways you can support your emotional health:
- Seek out therapy, when needed (Therapy is sometimes essential and should be utilized whenever necessary)
- Practice stress reduction habits that can help better manage life’s daily stresses
- Keep a journal to record your thoughts and feelings.
Research has shown that the happiest people on earth have deep connections with their friends, family, and community. This is where the social aspect of your health comes into play. Here are some ways that you can support your social health:
- Get involved in your local community; whether it be through your church, local volunteer organizations, clubs, or programs at your kids school, getting involved in your local community is one of the best ways to support your social health.
- Set boundaries with people in your life that may increase stress or bring about negative energy. Also, do not be afraid to walk away from friendships or relationships that are negatively affecting your health,
Spiritual Wellness does not necessarily mean that you need to become religious, although the two often have overlapping practices and principles. Instead, your spiritual health should focus on how you are connecting with your inner soul and the greater world around you. Some of the ways that you can support your spiritual health:
- Spend time in nature
- Spend a few minutes, every day, meditating
- If you are religious, take time to practice your faith.
The last aspect of holistic health is your mental health, which often overlaps with both our emotional and physical health. The biggest difference between our mental and emotional health is that where our emotional health refers to mostly our daily moods and emotions, our mental health refers to our cognitive abilities that affect how our brain functions. What you can do to support your mental health:
- Always keep your mind active by seeking out learning opportunities and problem-solving practices that challenge your brain.
- Consume nutrient-dense foods, that are high in anti-oxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids
- Avoid excessive drinking, smoking, and consuming recreational drugs.
According to holistic medicine philosophy, one can achieve optimal health by gaining proper balance in life.
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