WHAT IS HOLISM AND HOW DO YOU ADOPT A HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE?

Holism is a very broad term. Holism as a worldview or belief means that you believe everything is connected. A thought we see in many spiritual circles. This holistic approach is also very important in alternative medicine. In mainstream healthcare, such an overarching view and treatment is becoming increasingly normal. But on an individual level too, a holistic lifestyle is recommended. After all, you too are more than a piece of skin with some organs in it. Attention to an ideal balance between all your separate parts; that would be the source of ultimate happiness. Just have to figure out what those essential parts are for you... Read all about holism and how a holistic lifestyle can help you here.

Holism: the theory

The word 'holism' comes from the Greek word holos. This means 'whole', or 'altogether'. Holism, in short, looks at the whole. The idea is that everything is interconnected and that you only reach solutions when you look at the whole, big picture. Central is the idea that 'the whole is more than the sum of its parts'. Put another way, people, phenomena and other things are all made up of separate elements. But those elements not only each have their own role and value, they also interact with other elements. Sounds vague, so generally put. The practical examples below make it a lot clearer.

Holism in practice

This view becomes a little clearer when we look at the specific applications. For instance, holism has a place in traditional, modern and alternative medicine, among others. In these therapies, a holistic approach means that you don't look at individual symptoms and bodily functions, but at how they behave together.

Consider the strong connection between physical and psychological symptoms. Burnout and depression very often come with physical symptoms, such as itching, fatigue or just insomnia. Of course, a doctor may then prescribe creams and pills. Then you might get rid of one of those symptoms. With a holistic approach, you could gain more. As a result, your practitioners look at all the factors that might be influencing your symptoms. Treatment is then tailored to that. That treatment again takes into account the big picture. Think of your environment, social contacts, mental state and history.

Holistic living: how to do it

Would you like to apply the holistic vision to yourself, and thus feel more balanced and happy? We will help you on your way. A holistic lifestyle looks at all the elements that affect your well-being and health. These are the most important:

• body
• mental state, thoughts, feelings
• soul, spirituality
• (social) environment

According to the holistic lifestyle, you cannot separate these parts. Are things not right on one or more of these parts? Then you will not feel optimal. Top physical performance, for instance, is almost never possible when you are mentally in knots. Or when you experience no support from those around you.

Whether you have a particular goal in mind, want to get healthier or stress less: holism can contribute to wellbeing and balance.

1: Determine where you stand and what shapes you

You must have some idea of how you are put together if you want to shape a proper holistic lifestyle for yourself. Look at, among other things:

• your most important values: do they get enough space?
• everything that gives and takes energy from you
• all the ways you seem to sabotage yourself, in actions and thoughts
• what a beautiful life means to you: where do you want to see yourself in x number of years?
• what obstacles you experience now that keep you from that beautiful life.

2: Give body, brain and soul equal space

In holism, the idea is that you can only be in the best state, when your brain, body and soul are in balance. No matter what your main goal is, the cohesion of all those elements is most important. Want to run a marathon? Worry less? Feel yourself a better person? Then look beyond just those physical exercises, or just a therapy regimen.

Also keep a balance between exercise and relaxation, between yourself and others. Stand still regularly and ask yourself: do I feel okay with this?

3: Tactics within holism

Meditation and mindfulness are two practices that support you in your holistic lifestyle. For example, you get to know yourself better. You meditate with both body, mind and spirit. You notice what thoughts you have, relax more easily, and experience more control over your body and emotions. It doesn't get more holistic than this!

4: Holistic eating

Ultimate healthy eating also absolutely requires a personal holistic approach. Eat what makes your body, mind and soul feel happy. Chances are you will end up with lots of unprocessed and fresh food, veganism, superfoods, healthy teas and medicinal herbs.

Holism and the Limits of Alternative Health Care

While a holistic lifestyle can offer many benefits for mental and physical well-being, it is important to recognise that holism is not a substitute for regular medical care. Some conditions require professional medical treatment, and it is essential to know when holism can complement and when medical intervention is necessary.

When holism is not a substitute for medical care:

1. Chronic and Severe Diseases

   • Diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases should always be treated by a doctor. A holistic lifestyle can serve as additional support, but should never replace medical treatments.

2. Acute and Life-Threatening Situations

   • Chest pain, respiratory problems, stroke symptoms, severe allergic reactions or serious injuries require immediate medical intervention. Holistic methods such as meditation or herbs cannot replace first aid.

3. Mental Disorders and Mental Health

   • Conditions such as severe depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia require professional counselling by a psychologist or psychiatrist. Holistic practices such as mindfulness or meditation can be useful as supplements, but do not replace medication or therapy.

4. Pregnant Women and Children

   • Not all holistic methods, supplements and herbs are safe for pregnant women and children. Always consult a doctor or midwife before using alternative treatments.

5. Medicinal Herbs and Supplements

   • Some herbs and supplements may have interactions with regular medication or cause unwanted side effects. Always consult a doctor before combining holistic treatments with prescribed medication.

Holism as a Supplement, Not a Replacement

A holistic lifestyle can be a valuable complement to medical care, but should not be seen as a replacement. Together, mainstream medicine and holistic practices can offer a balanced approach while maintaining the safety and effectiveness of medical care.

Online source:

This article discusses how holistic health considers the body, mind and spirit as one and emphasises the importance of finding the underlying causes of health problems rather than just treating symptoms. The article further discusses the benefits of holistic approaches, such as improved physical health, mental and emotional well-being, and preventive care. It also highlights the scientific support for holistic methods, with references to research demonstrating the effectiveness of practices such as meditation and mindfulness in reducing stress and anxiety.