“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”
~ Lao Tzu (604 - 531BC) ~ [In this quote, Lao Tzu is expressing that great things start from humble beginnings.]
With many of the challenges we face in todays modern, fast paced society, the focus on wellness has never been greater. The pursuit of health, personal growth and an improved quality of life relies on living a holistically balanced life.
What is Wellness?
Wellness is defined as a multidimensional state of being that encompasses our mind, body, emotional and spiritual states, social dynamics and the environments in which we live, work and play; after the basic needs of food, shelter and medical care have already been met.
The wellness journey is a conscious pursuit of a holistically balanced lifestyle - and - “a direction in progress toward an ever-higher potential of functioning” [Halbert L. Dunn, MD, PhD Canadian Journal of Public Health 1959]
We achieve the state of wellness through an active and evolving process of becoming aware of and making choices for a better quality of life.
What is the Holistic Approach?
Holism relates to how physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual elements are interconnected. The general principle of holism was summarised by Aristotle as "The whole is more than the sum of its parts". When one part of the body or mind is out of balance, it is believed to affect the person as a whole.
Psychosomatic conditions are physical disorders that have been notably influenced by emotional factors. In other words they are emotional issues that manifest in physical form. For example, chronic stress can result in stomach ulcers, hair loss, cardiovascular disorders, etc.
The holistic approach focuses on the whole person rather than just on the condition or part of the body that is not balanced; addressing the ‘cause’ of the issue rather than simply just the ‘symptoms’. Therefore creating a positive synergising effect in both mind and body, in order to promote optimal health and wellness.
Living a holistically balanced life.
Our wellbeing directly affects our actions and emotions and the way we face life and life's challenges. Living a holistically balanced life can not only eliminate health problems, it can also prevent them. When all dimensions of wellness are balanced, we are more resilient to life’s stressors, resulting in an overall feeling of wellbeing and we are likely to feel more happy, focused, motivated and satisfied.
When we mindfully focus on our wellbeing we cultivate the internal resources which enable us to thrive amidst life’s challenges, anchoring in the abilities for sustainable wellness and an improved quality of life.