Living Holistically
What does it mean & Why does it matter?
7 Simple Ways to Start Living Healthier.
Simply put, the word ‘Holistic’ is defined as viewing a whole sum, rather than in systemic parts. We as humans are multi-dimensional beings, inclusive of body, mind, and spirit. Within us these elements ideally all live in a harmonious state, at which point is where balance is achieved, and a person can thrive rather than just survive. As Aristotle once said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts”.
Holistic living requires the individual to recognize and take responsibility for their health. It’s an awareness, a mindset of intentionally caring for ourselves with respect to each of element to achieve balance within. It also encompasses the idea of living as close to the earth as possible and in a natural manner. holistic living philosophically is about living in a wholesome way, being mindful of our health status, and taking measures to maintain and manage our healthcare to prevent the onset of disease or illnesses.
Now that we've gotten the gist of just what holistic living is about...you might be starting to see where I'm going with this. There are SO many benefits to striving to live holistically for yourself and your family.
But something too many of us probably is familiar with is living a fast-paced family lifestyle that seems to have become the norm these days. Self-care? What the hell is that…where do I find me some of that?
And what? …I need to take care of my spiritual and mental health? Yeah, ok, with what time exactly?
This is how I felt not that long ago… Like you're DROWNING in the chaos of life. Your career is draining the absolute life out of you and not exactly your dream job; family is busy with school and sports that take up all your extra energy, social life?… uhh that's extinct now- but I'd love to resurrect that life if I can ever just find enough energy.
Once I realized that my mental and spiritual health is equally important as my physical health- my picture of health started to shift. I needed to step back and reevaluate all that was going on within myself, to live better for myself and my family. And always remember, this is a journey, not a race. Be easy on yourself.
Simple ways to start living holistically and start bringing balance into your life:
1. Meditation: this can be easy as 10 uninterrupted quiet minutes first thing in the morning. Setting your intentions for your day and listening to what your body is telling you, help to identify any symptoms of imbalance.
2. Eating Wholly: Spending one additional hour on the weekend to plan a whole-food menu for the week not only saves you money but is an investment in your, and your family's health by feeding the body clean ingredients.
3. Water: The human body's makeup is approximately 50% fluids or more, depending on age, gender, and weight (Roland, 2019). Dehydration affects both the mind and body. Symptoms that might be felt are headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, to name a few. Chronic dehydration can result in impaired urinary/kidney function, imbalanced electrolytes, altered immune system, and even hypovolemic shock (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
4. Reduce Toxic Load: Becoming more conscientious of environmental toxins, such as air quality (eliminating using candles, switch for essential oil diffuser), pesticides on/in foods (avoid as much as possible), finding clean beauty products (know which ingredients to avoid), find natural cleaning products rather than chemical loaded cleaners. The internet is a glorious place to find DIY natural homemade products to substitute toxic goods.
5. MOVE YOUR BODY- Movement is amazing for circulation and detoxification. Circulation promotes oxygenation to all our vital organs, including our brain! In the brain, increased oxygen helps clear our thinking process, allowing for deeper mindfulness. Sweating helps release and detoxify from the existing toxic load in our bodies by draining lymphatic tissues. Continuous high toxic load levels promote an environment in the body where disease and illnesses occur.
6. Focus on spiritual and emotional connections: Unplug from all electronic. Write in a journal. Try reading a book that resonates with you— or practice mindful breathwork. Try not to become complacent with your thoughts- always question if what you're doing aligns with your true self.
7. Become a life-long learner: Continuously research and educate yourself on better ways to care for yourself and your family.
To achieve this level of optimal health, it first takes time to get to know oneself and what equates to this level of balance for that specific person. Then, a grounding process needs to take place. Even the most minor mindful step can make a significant impact and improve our quality of life.
The first step in living holistically is simply understanding that there is a better way of living. Try not to overcomplicate it and overthink it by implementing all these changes into your lifestyle. Start slow and go. Once one implemented change becomes a lifestyle, try implementing a new way to live holistically.
Click here to learn more about 1:1 Holistic Health Coaching for starting your rooted journey.
References
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, October 14). Dehydration. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 7, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086#:~:text=%20Dehydration%20can%20lead%20to%20serious%20complications%2C%20including%3A,potassium%20and%20sodium%20%E2%80%94%20help%20carry...%20More%20.
Roland, J. (2019, July 10). Body water percentage: Average, Ideal, how to maintain and determine. Healthline. Retrieved November 7, 2021, from https://www.healthline.com/health/body-water-percentage.