Holistic health is a practice that recognises the intricate connection between the body, mind, and spirit and that health should be perceived in its entirety, with equal attention to physical, psychological, and emotional aspects.

The term “holistic” dates back over 2,500 years to Hippocrates, who advocated for holistic health by arguing that the human body functions as a cohesive system of interdependent components, each influencing the others.

The ethos of holistic health is to restore equilibrium across various facets of well-being by considering other factors that may exacerbate a condition (Ventegodt et al, 2007). For example, stress, a psychological response to life’s challenges, can lead to physical symptoms such as sleep disturbances, appetite changes, digestive issues, fatigue, and muscle pain.

By considering the whole person, holistic health practitioners can tailor their approaches to meet each individual's unique needs, leading to a more personalised and effective path to health and wellness. In the 1970s, healthcare practitioners began to recognise the benefits of this approach, realising that treating only one symptom at a time did not improve overall quality of life (Relman, 1979).

The principles of holistic health are rooted in the belief that our bodies possess an inherent ability to heal themselves. Thus, healing commences internally, using the power of the subconscious mind, which further empowers individuals to take an active role in their own health journey.

With a deeper understanding of how emotions, thoughts, physical experiences, and spiritual beliefs work together to support behaviour, an individual can find self-acceptance and healing (Latorre, 2000).

Holistic practices such as mindfulness, meditation, hypnosis, acupuncture, massage, reiki, expressive therapies, body movement, breathwork, and sound therapies can enhance specific health outcomes while also contributing to a greater sense of harmony and fulfilment.

By embracing holistic health, individuals can lead more balanced lifestyles, resulting in improved health outcomes and a deeper understanding of the factors affecting their overall well-being. This proactive approach encourages self-care, prevention, and a stronger connection with one’s own body and mind.