The Benefits of Holistic Health and How to Boost Yours

Holistic health is an approach to life based on the idea that true health comes from a balance of the body and mind. It is a concept that considers multidimensional aspects of wellness and encourages individuals to recognize the whole person: physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual. It is an active process where the individual becomes more aware of daily health decisions and consciously makes choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life.

Guiding Principles of Holistic Health

*The healthy human body is a balanced system that is self-regulating and self-healing. 

*Holistic health is a dynamic process of change and growth.

*Good health is a combination of physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and social wellness.

*Daily health decisions are geared towards prevention of disease rather than treatment.

*Holistic health means living with greater intention.

*Holistic approaches to health are derived from ancient healing traditions and can include the use of food, herbs, supplements, teas, homeopathic remedies as well as the use of meditation, yoga, mindfulness, massage, and Ayurveda to achieve mind-body balance.

What can you achieve through holistic health practices?

When complimentary practices such as good nutrition, physical activity and mindfulness come together, a person is much more likely to experience wellness on a deeper level: Individuals return to their power, live with greater intention, and create a more aware, connected, joyful, and embodied life.

Why is holistic health important?

While the life span of people has increased, health span has actually decreased, as a result of experiencing chronically high levels of stress and fatigue, eating nutrient depleted foods, and being exposed to the hundreds of chemicals in our air, water, cooking utensils, cleaning products, and personal care items. We also have to consider the impact climate change is having on the environment and how these changes are accelerating at an alarming rate. Taking a holistic whole-body solution towards health, considers these many external factors which can be impacting our overall health and wellness.

How can you incorporate holistic living into your daily life?

Most people understand what living a holistic life means on an intuitive level, however our busy and often stressful lives can cause us to disconnect. You can start bringing balance back into your life today with some simple strategies for improving the health of your mind, body, and soul:

*Create a consistent sleep schedule and aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. This will allow your body to truly rest and repair from the day.

*Eat a nutrient dense diet high in plant foods and organic and pasture raised animals and minimize ultra-processed foods, fast food, and high sugar foods. What you eat has a profound effect on your body and your mind.

*Practice mindfulness and stress reduction strategies such as incorporating a daily yoga practice. Deep breathing is one easy and accessible practice that can help balance the body and mind and reduce the stress response. When you are feeling stressed, breath in deeply for a count of 4 seconds and slowly breathe out for 6 seconds. Do this three times and see how you feel.

*Move your body every day. Regular physical activity is a pillar of holistic health that provides benefits not just to your muscles but also has positive effects on your mood, sleep, and energy levels. Find an activity you enjoy rather than something you think you should do, something you will do regularly.

*Connect with at least one person each day in-person and find ways to get involved with your community. Research has shown that the happiest people have deep connections with friends, family, and their community.

*Take time for yourself. Self-care is not selfish. In fact, if you don’t take time for yourself, it will be difficult for you to care for others. Spend time in nature each day, watch the sunrise or set, wiggle your toes in the grass, doing self-care activities will help you connect with your inner soul and the world around you.

If you would like to learn more about health coaching and how an ally on your side can work with you towards improving your holistic health, get in touch with Koslo’s Nutrition Solutions today. Together is stronger than alone.