Holistic living is the ultimate state of wholeness that can be achieved by a human being. It is physically and mentally healthy due to deliberate efforts, such as good food, exercise, and healthy behaviors and habits. It is not the absence of disease or infirmity. The path to holistic wellness is a life-long journey that requires personal responsibility and commitment.

Psychologists emphasize that what affects one part of the system affects the whole body. They continue to share that the basic concept of holistic health is not only treating the sick but also how to stay healthy and fit.

Why does self-holistic wellness matter?

 According to the World Health Organization, most illnesses are a result of lifestyle choices throughout the course of one’s life. The most common are eating habits which affect us at all seven levels of holistic wellness; physical, mental, social, spiritual, occupational, and environmental. As our bodies continue to soak them in, they may lead to harmful effects that lead to abnormal cell functions. Biologists tell us that the cells in our bodies require constant replacement. As a result, the body cells can only be rebuilt from material available in the body. However, if we eat unhealthily and live a sedentary life with other unhealthy behaviors, it will change our cell structure, which leads to diseases and a low quality of life. Besides, when the institutions in our communities, like business and schools, are not grounded in healthy lifestyle practices, then we are more at risk of developing unhealthy habits.

 Why Do We Often Fail at Self-Care?

 According to the American Psychologist Association, practicing self-care is not always easy. Most of us are absorbed, have stressful jobs, or are too consumed with technology to make time for ourselves. Me-time is usually last on our to-do list.  Worse, we can sometimes feel guilty about taking the time required to take care of ourselves. So getting started with self-care can be challenging. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to engage in self-care. For example, you can read about self-care online, join self-care programmes, or ask friends what they do. You can also work with a coach or therapist who can walk with you in your self-care journey. No matter which approaches you choose, the goal is to figure out which self-care strategies work best for you, learn how to use these strategies, and implement them in your routine so you can boost your well-being not only today but for the rest of your life.

Take time to tend to yourself as a whole being.  Tuning in and responding to your body, mind, and spirit is the true meaning of living a holistic lifestyle. Overall, holistic wellness is a product of the interplay between the various factors described above. Holistic well-being plays a pivotal role in your overall well-being and life satisfaction. Always take a holistic approach, and remember that balance is critical!

 

This article was written by Annete Karanja.

 

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