The holistic health philosophy is to view the body as a whole, instead of just its parts. Holistic health is an understanding that your wellbeing can be affected by what you eat, drink, read, and engage in (mind); how much rest or exercise you do (body); and your connection with a higher source (spirit). The different systems in our body need to be examined and tended to simultaneously, with care, to ensure a state of health.
Holistic health also focuses on prevention. First, detecting a disorder is important to prevent us from experiencing suffering. Second, as we focus our intentions on gratitude, rest, joy, and abundance for example; we infuse our whole system with the joys of holistic wellness. The more active you are about your own health and wellness, the more likely that you will live a life of happiness, in good heath, free of dis-ease.
How the Holistic Health Ecosystem Works
One good example of how holistic health integrates all facets of your health can be seen in the dynamics of having close friends. Having a good friend or good group of friends, reflects directly on your well-being.
Those who have a strong support system have been found to have an easier time dealing with trauma, increased self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. This in turn reduces physical ailments such as high blood pressure, increased body mass index, depression, and stress.
The Effects of Stress on the Whole
Another instance of how holistic health works is by observing the effects of stress on the whole body. When we're stressed, we tend to breathe shallow, tense our muscles, get emotionally frustrated and quickly irritated.
When we experience stress, our adrenal glands are forced to work in overdrive releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Overtime, this can lead to adrenal fatigue, thyroid issues or heart problems.
And although we tend to think of stress as just an annoying thing we experience when a deadline gets pushed up, it can actually cause a host of series health conditions, such as
● Fatigue
● Irritability
● Headaches
● Intestinal problems
● Anxiety and depression
● Increased blood pressure
● Low libido, and much more.
How to Manage Stress Holistically
When stress is managed in a healthy manner, your body is able to return to its preferred state of homeostasis more quickly which reduces the chance of lingering physical effects of chronic stress.
One way to manage your stress is to begin a spiritual practice: prayers, meditation, mindfulness, earthing, etc... Incorporating spirituality into our lives generally leads to a greater feeling of gratitude, confidence in oneself, and faith in the bigger picture. Having a strong spiritual foundation can also help prevent disharmony within our minds and spirits.
It's important to remember that while our physical health is important, we also need to take care of the rest of our bodies. Practicing holistic and alternative medicines can allow all organ systems to work together in a way which creates peace for ourselves and allows us to live with purpose.
Stop by the next Holistic Health Fair to explore the many goods and services designed to support your holistic lifestyle, reduce stress and help you achieve the best version of you!