Holistic Living: Caring for Your Body, Mind and Soul

When I began researching this blog post, I had a very limited understanding of holistic living. I thought it included consideration of the whole person and incorporated some non-Western or alternative medical treatments. As I read further, I learned that it is much more and includes many elements—basically, all aspects of our lives.

Health care providers who take a holistic approach consider the connection between the mind and body—they do not solely focus on a problem, but rather the possible causes and any other effects or symptoms. They draw on an array of clinically proven therapies from Western medicine, evidence-based alternative therapies and may even suggest ways to improve intellectual, financial and social health.

What is holistic living?

While some people associate the term “holistic” with naturopathy and alternative medicine, it is more accurate to understand holistic living as being about the entire person—the body, mind and soul.

Another way to think about holistic living is to reframe what healthy means. Many people think of health as the absence of illness, but try reframing “healthy” to mean wellness.

The Keys to Holistic Living

The elements of holistic living can also be understood as an approach to fortify good health and prevent future illness. As you read through the factors below, consider how you can make shifts to strengthen your wellbeing.

Physical

This can include exercise, but it is much more than that. Another element of physical health is sleep—and most of us are not getting enough. We lead busy lives and sometimes it is difficult to find enough time, but when possible, turn off screens, establish a calming bedtime routine and block out excess noise and light to ensure you get adequate rest.

Nutrition is an important factor to physical health. Health guides now recommend that half our plate be filled with colorful fruits and vegetables. It can be difficult to incorporate this much produce everyday, but read our meal prep blog for tricks and tips to make a healthy diet an easier part of life.

Emotional and Social

An ability to identify, assess and share emotional responses is important to one’s physical health. When we gain a deeper understanding of our emotions through activities such as therapy or journaling, we are better able to manage challenges.

Emotional wellbeing is closely tied to social wellness. Relationships with friends and family create a support system that is vital to positive holistic health. Fostering these relationships takes time and energy, but is well worth the investment!

Spiritual

This aspect of holistic living can be fulfilled in various ways and will be very different in each person’s life. Some find fulfillment in traditional religious practices, but for others it may be helpful to think of this as an understanding of one’s purpose and values. It might be fostered through prayer, meditation or connecting with nature.

Intellectual

Staying mentally engaged keeps life more interesting and preserves cognitive health. To nourish your intellectual wellbeing, consider participating in a book club, taking a course or finding time to work on a jigsaw puzzle. Even engaging conversation or a good debate can support your intellectual health.

Financial

This aspect of wellness might be unexpected, but financial challenges are one of the top stressors for many people. Financial wellness means living within your means and having a plan for the future. This can be challenging to achieve and may feel beyond your control. However, developing a carefully planned budget and consulting with a financial advisor may lead to less stress and improve your health.

Environmental

It may seem like there is no connection between a messy desk or litter on your street and your health, but when we take a holistic approach we begin to see the link. Stressful environments can cause people to release more of the hormone cortisol, which in excess can weaken our immune systems. If part of your work or living space tends to get messy, try to find a sustainable way to keep it organized and tidy—this just might fend off the next cold you’re exposed to!

There are many aspects of life that you can care for, but don’t think of this as an all or nothing approach. Often, when improvements are made in one area of life that fuels better choices and habits in other aspects.

After researching this article, I have a better understanding of why I feel calmer and can be more productive when the kitchen is tidy. I now know that playing bridge is more than just a social activity for my mom. I am learning to see how interconnected seemingly distinct aspects of my life are. I will now prioritize coffee dates with friends, enjoying a good book, or hiking in the forest because these things aren’t just fun—they may improve my overall health.