For thousands of years, humans have shown great adaptability. It has been proven that humans can live in harsh environments and extreme temperatures. Over time, we have developed different characteristics like skin color, hair growth, and diet depending on the conditions of where we are from. But one thing remains present in every culture and civilization, a holistic lifestyle approach to the human body’s health.
With the current global health crisis, we had to adapt to new rules… social distancing and limiting public spaces. But it also gave us the opportunity to look at our health in a different way. Doctors’ appointments are sometimes necessary but they’re also limited to treating the symptoms of a specific health concern. Here is where a holistic approach to your health could be a good weapon for your overall wellness.
What is holistic health?
Holistic health is an approach where the whole body is considered as one instead of a specific area that needs treatment. This includes your physical, mental, and spiritual being as it all works together. Doctors who practice holistic health are called naturopathic doctors.
The goal of holistic health is to find the perfect balance for you as a unique individual. It does not mean only the medications you’re taking, but also lifestyle changes.
How do I assess myself holistically?
The first thing that you need to do is look at your overall lifestyle. Get to know your body, how external factors make you feel physically, mentally, and spiritually. You may have to get yourself out of your comfort zone and face some aspects of your health that you don’t like but it’s all for a good cause, you. Here are some questions you can ask yourself:
Your current physical state. Are you experiencing pain or inflammation? If so, what do think is causing it? What are the things that I can do to improve it? Do I have the optimum weight or diet?
Assess your mental state. How often do I get anxious? What triggers my anxiety? Am I happy?
Spirituality. It’s not always about religion but also being one with nature, social connections, etc. How do I feel with my environment? What does home feel like for me?
Now that you’ve reflected on the good and bad things about you, it’s time to think of the positive changes you can make to achieve homeostasis (balance).
5 Things you can do to achieve a holistic lifestyle?
Following a holistic lifestyle is not difficult or something you can’t do on your own. However, if you can is always a good idea to consult a naturopath doctor about your initial health. the next step is usually setting your goals, what areas of your lifestyle you would like to improve. This might mean incorporating some natural supplements and adjusting your diet. But don’t feel discouraged, there are some things you can do on your own to achieve a more holistic lifestyle:
1 – Exercise. There is a myriad of different exercise routines that you can do. Being active doesn’t mean going to the gym. It can be dancing, hiking, playing volleyball, among others. Yoga is very popular and has been found in studies that can reduce the production of cortisol which is the stress-inducing chemical. All you need to do is to find something that you enjoy and create a habit.
2 – Make changes with your diet. Do your own research about inflammatory foods, types of diets, etc. Remember, changing or improving your diet doesn’t necessarily mean lowering your food intake or eating something you don’t like. It means incorporating different ingredients to improve your nutritional intake.
3 – Laugh. “Laughter is the best medicine” is not just a funny adage but laughter is really good for your health and improving your mood.
4 – Meditate. We live in a hectic world and it’s hard to find time for ourselves. Meditation can be a good option to disconnect and help you achieve a holistic lifestyle. In other words, it’s training your brain to avoid anxiety and take things differently. There are many apps and video tutorials that you can follow, it’s an art that requires practice and patience.
5 – CBD. Cannabidiol or other cannabinoids can help your body by engaging our Endocannabinoid System (ECS) to reach and maintain homeostasis (balance). There are many different ways to incorporate CBD in your daily routine. Do your own research and find what might work for you.
All information contained in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your health and well-being.