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What Is Holistic Health, and How Can It Make a Difference in the Life of Your Loved One?

July 27, 2022

Human beings are not one-dimensional. We are multifaceted creatures who respond physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually to the outside world. Holism speaks to these facets in each of us, the whole person as a sum of parts, and maintains we can’t live well unless the connections between those parts are recognized and honored. Our holistic health depends on it. But what is holistic health, and how is it achieved?

The principles of holism have been around since the time of Hippocrates and embody the idea that various physical, biological, and social systems should be seen and understood as wholes, not merely as a collection of parts. With respect to health, it can be viewed as an approach, one that focuses on the whole person and how we interact with the world. Holistic health recognizes the connections between mind, body, and spirit and understands that in order to achieve overall wellness, we need to be aware of and address how they are connected.

Better Holistic Wellness in Senior Living Care

All of us can benefit from a more holistic approach to health, and seniors should be encouraged to think about their wellness from the mind/body/spirit perspective. It will allow them to feel more control over their health and happiness and allow them the opportunity to explore the connection between their minds and bodies.

Research shows, for instance, that physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction all lower the risk of disease in seniors and reduce depression in those who are living with it. As a family member caring for their loved one's well-being, knowing this, you might want to talk to your senior about ways they can easily introduce these holistic practices into their life. Walking more, doing crossword puzzles, and volunteering are all simple ways your senior can integrate holistic approaches to overall wellness.

Holistic-Living Approach to Healing

Doctors who practice a holistic approach to medicine do so with the goal of treating the underlying cause of an illness or condition rather than just managing physical symptoms. Treatment plans can help and do very often include traditional remedies but are augmented by a deeper discussion of the patient’s lifestyle so that root causes, if any, can be addressed and treated in ways that may go beyond traditional medicine.

For instance, if a senior is suffering from headaches, a holistic practitioner would advise or prescribe pain medication. But they would also spend time trying to determine what is causing them — poor sleep, bad diet, depression, or stress. Once a possible underlying cause is identified, a holistic treatment plan can be devised and may include more movement and exercise, a better diet, meditation, and more. Some other common examples of holistic care include:

Massage

  • Acupuncture
  • Pet therapy
  • Chiropractic care
  • Aromatherapy
  • Music therapy
  • And much more

What is holistic health? In the end, it’s an understanding and honoring of the whole person and the relationship between the mind, the body, and the spirit. It’s about becoming more aware of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and their role in our overall wellness and happiness.

Reach out to Senior Care Authority today to find out more information about senior health and wellness for your loved one.

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