Holistic health is a modern approach to life that encourages people to recognize the whole person, including mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual health.
Achieving good health does not only mean staying healthy physically, you need to pay the same kind of attention to your emotional, mental, and even spiritual well-being as well. For any wellness enthusiast, staying healthy in this modern world means achieving optimal health, a state of complete mental, physical, and social well-being. Now, you can only achieve optimal health by focusing on improving your holistic health. This means taking an inclusive approach toward your wellness and health that considers the entire person. This transformative approach embraces the connection between body, mind, and spirit. Let’s explore the principles of holistic health in this ultimate guide, getting practical tips and insights that would help you cultivate a wellness lifestyle, nourishing every aspect of your life.
What is holistic health?
If you are on the wellness internet, you might have already seen or come across holistic health, which is in reality, much more than just a buzzword. This is a philosophy that recognizes the convoluted yet exigent connection between people’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. While in traditional healthcare, the complete focus is always on treating specific symptoms, this optimal health lifestyle addresses the real cause of the imbalance, getting a more sustainable approach to your wellness.
Body, mind, and spirit: three pillars of holistic health
The entire concept of holistic health is based on three pillars, your body, mind, and spirit.
- Body
Human bodies thrive on movement, care, and most importantly nourishment. When you take a holistic approach toward a healthier body, it includes –
- Doing regular exercise that suits your body’s requirements.
- Eating a balanced diet that is rich in necessary nutrients.
- Getting an ample amount of restorative sleep.
Taking a holistic approach toward your physical health means listening to your body’s signals, its needs, and requirements, and providing it the care it so rightfully deserves.
- Mind
Human minds are extremely complex and impact every aspect of our lives. Human minds have the ability to change realities. So taking a holistic approach toward your health and wellness includes taking good care of your mind as well. You can consider journaling, practicing mindful meditation, and even deep-breathing exercises to regulate and foster a good and stable mental state. If you cultivate positive thoughts on a regular basis and engage in activities that indicate that, it will bring you relaxation and joy that further contribute to a more balanced and resilient mind.
- Spirit
The spiritual dimension of human beings especially in this holistic health dimension is all about connecting with your inner self to find the purpose of life. You can achieve this by doing a couple of exercises, such as doing prayers, meditation, and even spending some time in nature. When you practice gratitude it aligns your actions with your values and morals. In return, it contributes to leading a more fulfilled and spiritually well-lived life.
Prevention: a holistic approach
Holistic health is extremely important if you are trying to lead a more nurturing and fulfilled life. It addresses the root cause of any problem, rather than focusing on fixing or treating specific symptoms. This is all about taking a comprehensive approach to wellness and health so that you can achieve optimal health and even prevent future problems.
Wellness lifestyle comes with various cornerstones and one of the highlighting ones is preventative care. In this lifestyle, you do not wait for any illness to strike you first, instead, you take a holistic approach that emphasizes proactive measures to maintain balance and prevent imbalances. This includes eating a well-balanced nutritious diet, getting regular check-ups, adept management of stress, and getting adequate amounts of restorative sleep every day. They all play a very serious role in not only leading a better life but also preventing serious health issues before they can arise and making visible impacts.
How nutrition is connected to holistic health?
As stated previously, taking care of your physical health is one of the three pillars of holistic health that talks about empowering not only your body, but mind, and spirit too. Now, a healthy body or good physical health comes from balanced nutrition in your everyday diet. So, let’s see what kinds of food that are good for your body, and become fuel in this sphere of holistic health.
1.Whole grains
Nutrition is one of the fundamentals of a wellness lifestyle. So, whenever you are having a meal, opt for whole, unprocessed foods. This will nourish your body with necessary nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. This includes whole grains such as brown rice, barley, and oats. Remember, whatever you eat, try to keep it as minimally processed as possible.
2.Fish
Fish is one of the major sources of protein that contains several minerals and vitamins that human bodies need. If you are planning a well-balanced diet for the whole week, try to aim for two days or two portions of fish every week. However, you must also include at least one portion of the oily fish. According to studies, oily fishes are rich in omega-3 which might prevent heart diseases in the future. Some of the oily fishes you can include in your diet are salmon, herring, sardines, trout, pilchards, mackerels, etc. If you are looking for some non-oily fish options, you may choose from haddock, plaice, coley, cod, tuna, skate, hake, etc. You can choose from various options such as frozen, canned, and fresh fish. However, remember that smoked or canned fish are usually very high in salt.
3. Fruits and vegetables
Doctors recommend that you eat at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables every day of your life. If you think that might be a little tough for you to maintain, in reality, it is easier than it sounds. You can chop a banana over your breakfast cereal, or even swap the usual mid-morning snack for a freshly cut fruit. At the same time, every plate of yours should contain fresh vegetables, preferably steamed or stir-fried.
4.Starchy carbohydrates
Healthy eating does not ask you to avoid crabs, instead, it feels that every plate that you eat should have starchy carbohydrates in at least one-third. These include potatoes, cereals, rice, or pasta. You can also go for wholegrains or higher fiber varieties, such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, or potatoes with their skins on. These types of foods contain more fiber than refined or white carbohydrates and at the same time can help you feel full for longer. So start by trying to include at least 1 starchy food with each big meal, preferably with your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You might think that starchy foods are fattening, however, gram for gram the carbohydrate they contain provides fewer than half the calories of fat. So, keep an eye on the fats you are adding while cooking or serving these kinds of foods. These are the things that increase the calorie content, for example – butter on bread, creamy sauces on pasta, or oil on chips.
5. Hydration
Getting proper hydration is often one of the most overlooked, yet most important aspects of a holistic health and wellness lifestyle. Water is the most essential thing for the body and its proper functioning, which includes nutrient absorption, digestion, and detoxification. So, get your hydration in check and aim for 8 glasses of water every day. At the same time, you can also consider incorporating herbal teas, or infused water for added benefits and flavors.
6. Herbal Remedies
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional medicine for different conditions that suits holistic health better, then herbal remedies are your cue. These remedies often include using supplements, herbs, and other natural substances that promote healing and health. Some of the most popular natural remedies include eating ginger for nausea and inflammation, valerian for anxiety and sleep disorders, and Echinacea for immune support. However, it is important to remember that while natural remedies can be extremely effective, you need to talk to your healthcare provider before using them, especially if you are using prescribed medication.
How are movement and exercise connected to holistic health?
1.Mindful movement
Most people take exercise in the wrong way, a way of punishing their bodies or eating habits. A holistic approach to a wellness lifestyle tells that exercise is a way to celebrate what your body is capable of doing. So, start by engaging in physical activities that you enjoy, it can brisk walking, doing yoga, weightlifting, or dancing. Doing regular physical activities benefits your body, and then profoundly impacts your mood and even mental well-being.
2.Balanced workouts
When it comes to holistic exercise, the most important thing is settling for variety. You can balance out cardiovascular activities with flexibility exercises, strength training, and mind-body practices. This is a comprehensive approach that ensures every aspect of your physical health is accurately and equally addressed. At the same time, it also promotes your overall well-being.
How is stress management connected to holistic health?
If you have chronic stress, it can have detrimental effects on both your physical and mental health. When you take an approach toward a wellness lifestyle, it emphasizes stress management by giving importance to mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and meditation. Using these techniques will help you find your inner self, along with the sense of calm resilience that will make you ready to combat the challenges that life throws at you.
Exploring alternative therapies for holistic health
There are a bunch of holistic therapies that you can consider instead of the traditional list of therapies. These holistic therapies include going for a massage, acupuncture, or aromatherapy that also complements the traditional techniques of stress management. Not only do these therapy techniques address physical tension, but also bring out a sense of relaxation, along with balance in spirit and mind.
How is sleep connected to holistic health?
1.Prioritizing sleep
When it comes to holistic health, negotiating with sleep is an unbearable concept. Getting a good amount of sleep every day improves a lot of aspects of the human brain, it improves your mood and health. When your body is asleep, it undergoes necessary repair and regeneration processes. At the same time, not getting enough sleep leads to high risks of developing heart diseases and even health disorders. This can range from obesity, and dementia, to heart stroke. So, start by creating a favorable sleep environment, and then establish a sleep routine that you can follow on a regular basis. Your priority should be getting at least 7–9 hours of sleep each night to support your overall well-being.
2.Building healthy habits
Practicing sleep hygiene is deeply connected to getting good sleep. What you can do is limit your screen time before bed, create a calming and relaxing bedtime routine, and maintain a comfortable sleep environment. These habits will then contribute to the amount and quality of sleep you get every day, allowing you to wake up refreshed and get motivated to ace the day.
Taking care of your mental wellbeing – a holistic approach
Your mental and emotional health is a big part of who you are and how you ace through life. Your emotional and mental health impacts your life, your thoughts, your emotions, and your behaviors toward other people. A holistic approach toward your overall well-being includes taking care of your mental health too, as it is one of the pillars of holistic health.
1.The superior connection between mind and body
There is an intense connection between your mind and body that is what the holistic health approach asks you to nurture. Holistic mental health includes taking care of this symbiotic relationship through various mindful practices such as yoga, biofeedback, tai chi, etc. Doing these activities on a regular basis provides your mind clarity, and a sense of control over your own life that further contributes and establishes a sense of balance and harmony.
2.The magic of positivity
You might have heard the phrase that good thought brings success to your life. The holistic health approach puts emphasis on manifestation and talks about the psychology of positivity. It gives importance to building personal strengths and establishing a positive mindset. To do this, you can practice gratitude, engage yourself in activities that you find happiness in, and surround yourself with positive people who uplift your spirit. When you cultivate a positive outlook on life, it will build your mental resilience, contributing so much toward overall holistic well-being.
Taking care of your spirits – a holistic approach
Spiritual care attends to a person’s religious or spiritual needs as they go through different stages of life. When someone is facing any kind of imbalance in their bodies or minds, taking care of their spiritual health can lead to a reduction of pain, physical healing, and in the end, personal growth. Holistic health focuses a lot on your spiritual well being which forces you to give the same importance to your spirit as you give your mental and physical well-being.
1.Using mindful practices to foster connection
When you talk about holistic health, spirituality is a completely personal journey. It is about seeking a meaningful relationship with something bigger than you, your soul. It means that our existence has significance beyond our everyday lives, it is the knowing that we are all part of a purposeful unfolding of life in the universe. So, to make sure that your spiritual health is also being taken care of, you can engage in mindful practices that resonate with your beliefs. It can be either meditation, a walk spending some time in nature, or prayer. These mindful practices provide a space for introspection, cultivating a deeper connection with not just yourself, but the world that surrounds you.
2.Incorporating spirituality into everyday life
You cannot restrict spirituality to particular practices as it is simply the way of living for most people. You can take care of your spirit by bringing spirituality into your everyday life as you start aligning your actions with your morals and values. This aspect also includes practicing kindness, and compassion towards others while fostering connections with society. Holistic spirituality is all about finding your purpose and meaning in the most ordinary moments of your daily life.
Turn holistic health into a lifestyle
To understand what holistic health is, you need to understand that it is a continuous journey, not a destination, you need to practice these every day, every waking moment in your life. It is a lifestyle that evolves as it grows and changes with time. So, to lead a better, and more fulfilled life, embrace the principles of holistic health as a commitment that you will carry lifelong, nurturing your body, mind, and spirit. You need to put the charge of your life into the hands of these practices as it is the only way to transform your well-being completely. This will encourage balance, and self-care while unwavering optimism for the future.
The importance of a holistic community
When we are a part of any community, we learn about shared beliefs and values. It helps us develop a sense of identity, making us feel like we have a place in this world like we are part of something, something important, something noteworthy. The same sentiment works for holistic communities as well. So, your focus should be on building a holistic community that supports you and your way of life.
1. Community and connection
Every aspect of your holistic health journey is deeply connected to the community and the connection it provides. Every journey toward holistic health and wellness is complete with the recognition of the importance of connection and community. So, surround yourself with people who share the same values as yours, and the same goals as you have in life. This can happen either by joining local wellness groups, establishing relationships with friends and family, participating in online forums, or building a supportive community that enhances your holistic journey.
2. Shared experiences and learnings
When you share insights and experiences with others on a similar path toward holistic health, it turns out to be extremely enriching. To make sure you are engaging in actual shared experiences and learnings you can join wellness retreats, attend workshops, or even engage in group activities that align with your own holistic goals. These communities offer a collective energy that further provides motivation, encouragement, and most importantly, a sense of identity and belonging.
Adapting to a changing world: a holistic lifestyle
In this moving world, the only constant is change. When you make yourself adapt to changes, it will allow you to learn new things, upskill yourself, and give you a better understanding of yourself and your abilities. As you step outside of your comfort zone, you start to embrace change, foster personal growth, and enrich your sense of confidence and self-worth.
1.Adaptability
The concept of holistic health is based on the idea of yourself being dynamic and subject to various changes. So, becoming flexible with the moving circumstances and adaptable to the evolving needs of your mind, body, and spirit is really the key to leading a holistic lifestyle. You can adjust your lifestyle practices as situational shifts. It is only then that you recognize that flexibility is your inner strength that helps you maintain a sustainable and balanced lifestyle.
2.Self-reflection
When it comes to holistic health, practicing regular self-reflection is a cornerstone. So every day, take your time to assess your overall well-being, including the well-being of your body, mind, and spirit. When you access and analyze that on a regular basis, you can identify the areas that particularly need more attention from you. With time and constant improvement, you can also celebrate the progress you have so far. Doing mindful self-reflection, you can use as a powerful tool for personal growth. At the same time, you need to remember that personal growth is an integral part of your journey towards holistic health.
How is the environment connected to holistic health?
For holistic health and achieving the ultimate wellness, people have to start caring about environmental wellness as well. The core concept of environmental wellness is connected to the principle of mutual respect. It is the respect for every aspect of nature and all species that live in it. When you become aware of the environment, you start to realize how much of your daily habits actually impact your surroundings, your home, and your work life. Environmental wellness includes not just human’s relationship with nature but also their personal relationship with their surroundings. Once your personal surroundings are taken care of, organized, and clean, you will experience less anxiety and a great sense of comfort and belonging.
1.Making eco-friendly choices
The concept of holistic health is so much more than just about personal well-being, it is also well connected to the wellbeing of the planet, nature, and the environment. So, to achieve this aspect of optimal wellness, start making eco-friendly choices and incorporate them into your lifestyle. These lifestyle choices include choosing sustainable products, reducing waste, etc. Moreover, it is about adopting habits that will minimize your impact on nature. When you align your personal well-being with the well-being of the Earth, it fosters a deeper, interconnected, and harmonious relationship with the environment.
2. Treating nature as a healer
Engaging with nature on a daily basis has several benefits for your holistic lifestyle and well-being. To do that, start with treating the environment as your healer. Practice outdoor meditation, take walks in green spaces regularly, etc. Make sure to engage in activities that bring you closer to the environment, and deeply connect you to the natural world. If you are wondering, nature has a magical capability of restoring balance in not just itself, but also in human lives. It can help reduce stress and anxiety as well, enhancing your overall optimal health.
What is the future of holistic health?
The awareness regarding holistic health continues to grow, and so does the integration of holistic principles into mainstream healthcare. Many healthcare providers from around the world are now recognizing the importance of the concept of optimal well-being, recognizing a person as a whole – addressing their bodies, minds, and spirits. Doing this in treatment plans has signaled towards a positive shift in the healthcare industry.
Another contributing factor towards holistic health being incorporated into mainstream healthcare is technology and its increasing advancements. You can now use wearable devices tracking your physical health, and log into an application, which itself is a community that supports the mental health and emotional well-being of a person. So, with time, technology is becoming a valuable ally, empowering people to take charge of their overall wellbeing, and taking it to the step of optimal health.
In conclusion, you have to remember that your journey toward achieving holistic health is a continuous process and an ever-evolving experience. It is not some destination you have to reach, but truly a way of life.
