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What is Holistic Health?

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.

Holistic Health Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is holistic health suitable for individuals who are new to wellbeing practices?

    Yes. Holistic health is accessible to beginners because it focuses on gentle awareness, simple tools, and meeting you exactly where you are. You don’t need any prior experience to benefit.

  • Do I need to make big lifestyle changes to see results?

    Not at all. Holistic health often works best through small, sustainable shifts. Many individuals notice significant improvements by adjusting their daily habits, cultivating emotional awareness, or learning how to manage stress more effectively.

  • Can holistic health support mental and emotional well-being?

    Yes. Many holistic approaches help calm the nervous system, increase emotional resilience, and create space for clearer thinking. They can complement therapeutic support by helping you understand how your emotions show up in the body.

  • Is holistic health only for individuals with health concerns?

    No. Many individuals use holistic practices for personal growth, self-awareness, prevention, and maintaining balance. It’s just as valuable for someone seeking clarity or fulfilment as it is for someone navigating stress or discomfort.

  • How do I know if a holistic approach is right for me?

    If you’re curious about understanding yourself more deeply, want a more personalised approach to wellbeing, or feel drawn to exploring the connection between your emotions, thoughts, and physical experiences, holistic health can be a supportive fit.

  • Can holistic health be used in conjunction with other treatments?

    Yes. Holistic approaches often complement existing care by supporting emotional regulation, stress reduction, and self-awareness. Many individuals choose holistic support to enhance, not replace, their current treatment.

  • Is holistic health evidence-informed?

    Many holistic practices, such as mindfulness, breathwork, and expressive therapies, are supported by research showing benefits for stress, emotional balance, and overall well-being. Holistic health blends scientific understanding with whole-person awareness.

  • Do I need to be spiritual to benefit from holistic health?

    No. Holistic health simply recognises that thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence the body. You can engage with it from a scientific, psychological, or spiritual perspective, whatever feels most aligned with you.

  • Can holistic health help if I feel “stuck” or disconnected?

    Yes. Holistic approaches help individuals explore the deeper patterns behind their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Many find it supportive when navigating transitions, uncertainty, or a sense of being out of alignment.

  • Is holistic health suitable for individuals with busy lives?

    Absolutely. Many holistic tools are simple, practical, and easy to integrate into daily routines. Even small moments of awareness can create meaningful shifts.

“There are two

primary choices

in life... To accept

conditions as they

exist, or accept

the responsibility

for changing them”

Denis Waitley

What will your next choice be?

✦ ALIGN ★ TRANSFORM ∞ THRIVE