How to Strengthen Your Well-Being: A Beginners Guide to Holistic Health
Pursuing wellness can often feel maddeningly elusive in our perpetually rushed world. We’re oversaturated with information, trends, remedies, and next-best things. We hop from fad diet to intense workout, into a cold plunge, trying green juice after green juice. We’re taking advice from social media influencers and celebrities, and sifting through dozens of Yelp reviews to figure out what’s good, and accurate, and reputable. We try to schedule time for pilates, to call our moms, walk the dog, have brunch with our friends, read that book that’s just been sitting on the counter for weeks… Shower, rinse, repeat. It’s a merry-go-round of: Do I need more? Do I need less? What do I actually need? Is this working? Is it helping? Is it possible to feel balanced?
The short answer is yes. And the exciting part is that it’s more attainable than you think.
Let’s start breaking it down.
First things first. The word “holistic” is derived from the Greek word "holos," meaning "whole," and can be defined as:
Holistic (/hōˈlistik/): adj.
Considering the whole system of something rather than just its individual parts.
Approaching health by considering the mind, body, and spirit as interconnected and treating them as a whole for optimal well-being.
You might be thinking, okay, but that doesn’t explain where to start, where to go, or how to get there.
Exactly.
Holistic health is not a one-size-fits-all, one-time magic solution. It’s actually an on-going process that requires you to learn, and evolve, and change, and experience. The best part? You’re the co-creator of your own wellness journey from beginning to end. You are empowered to find the things that make you feel whole, more balanced, and thus, live a holistic lifestyle—one that is unique to you and you alone.
Pretty cool, huh?
But if that feels intimidating, don’t worry. And keep reading. We’ll break down the who, what, when, where, why, and how of holistic health.
The 5 Pillars of Health: The “What”
In architecture, pillars are vertical structures that provide support for a building's weight and maintain its stability. Not one singular pillar is more important in holding up the building than another. In fact, if one pillar becomes unstable, the whole building collapses. In holistic health, there are five pillars—physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual—that are equally important for keeping you standing, so to speak. And just like a row of potted plants, each needs to be tended to and nourished.
Sounds like a lot, doesn’t it?
Actually, you’d be surprised at the things that you already do every day to strengthen your five pillars.
See for yourself:
Physical Health
This is the pillar that takes care of your body, your physical realm. Yes, we’re talking rainbow bowls and yoga classes but we’re also talking about prioritizing sleep and creating restful routines (see ya later, social scroll for hours). This can also mean swapping caffeinated beverages for more high-quality H20 (because the ice in that latte doesn’t count). It’s taking the stairs, parking further away from the store, and wearing SPF. It’s stretching, listening to music, dancing in your living room—all the things that emphasize wholesome nutrition, active living, adequate sleep, stress management, and preventative care.
Mental Health
This pillar is essentially squats for your brain. It can be as simple as doing the daily Wordle or as in-depth as learning a new language or taking up an instrument (we see you, french horn). This is the pillar that is satisfied by escape rooms, Soduko, and starting a blog. It’s the books you read, the podcasts you listen to, and the conversations sparked by those topics. It’s all-encompassing, and it consists of the things that make you flex your mental muscles while keeping your cognitive abilities sharp.
Emotional Health
You say “in my feels” like it’s a bad thing! This pillar promotes self-awareness and builds resilience through setting boundaries (because “no” is a complete sentence), self-reflection, and expressing emotions. It’s understanding the difference between being triggered and understanding where those triggers come from. It’s finding that golf, or gardening, or reading actually keeps you present in the moment, or helps you cope. It’s realizing that gratitude, self-compassion, and a positive outlook are habits you can build in simple moments every day. It is understanding that without this relationship to your emotions, your body can manifest and express them for you as symptoms.
Social Health
Cue up, “I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends”! This pillar is the only one that comes with an entourage. From everyone in your book club, to your work bestie, to the other regulars in your pilates class, the relationships that you form, and how you cultivate them, actually have a significant impact on your overall well-being. And why wouldn’t they? Humans are fundamentally wired for connection and studies show that people with large social networks actually live longer. Isn’t it wild that we find people throughout our lifetimes and we’re just like, You! I wanna do stuff with you!, and then we do forever and ever?! Keep doing that. The emotional support, sense of belonging, enhanced self-esteem, and reduced stress are all just beneficial byproducts of all the fun you’re having.
Spiritual Health
We all have a yearning for something greater than ourselves. It's that inner voice that's constantly asking, "What's the meaning of life? Why am I here? There’s gotta be a deeper meaning to all of this, right?” Right! This pillar is all about recognizing that we're more than just meatsuits walking around on this big, blue marble. It's about finding purpose, depth, and a little bit of magic in the everyday moments of life. So, how do we boost our spiritual health? Through meditation, spending time in nature, or having a heart-to-heart with the Universe. We start to feel more grounded, more in tune with ourselves and the world around us.
One fascinating fact about the Five Pillars of Holistic Health is that you are in control of your process. Did you notice that the way to strengthen your overall well-being through the pillars is an active, conscious choice? You have the power to choose what’s best for you and co-create your wellness journey.
That’s right!
You are in the driver seat and responsible for every twist and turn, every speed bump and detour, every pit stop, snack stop, and rest stop. Hey, you’re even the DJ along the way! And all that responsibility comes with some pretty great benefits.
The Benefits of Holistic Health: The “Why”
Holistic health goes beyond the ordinary, offering a comprehensive pathway to well-being that's as exciting as it is effective. Here's why embracing holistic health is the ultimate game-changer:
Root Cause Resolution: Forget scratching the surface. Holistic health digs deep to uncover the underlying causes of health issues, providing faster and more effective relief by treating the whole person.
Educational Empowerment: With holistic health, you'll gain invaluable insights into your body and how it functions, empowering you to make informed decisions and achieve optimal health goals.
Enhanced Emotional Resilience: Life's inevitable stressors become infinitely easier to navigate. The ability to experience our feelings with acceptance, process them with self-compassion, and allow them to flow naturally brings equilibrium and growth from challenges.
Mental Clarity: We gain the gifts of presence, focus, and creativity with techniques to tame the constant mental chatter. Practices like meditation and breathwork allow you to quiet the turmoil of the mind and just be. This yields deeper insights, innovative ideas, and a positive perspective in our personal and professional life.
Overall Health: While reactive treatments offer temporary relief, holistic self-care creates lasting foundations for wellness. By addressing the interplay of multiple elements—nutrition, exercise, stress management, and relationships—we can prevent chronic conditions before they surface. In navigating existing health concerns, holistic modalities can alleviate symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance quality of life.
If you’re thinking to yourself, Okay, I might be on the right track but I think something could be missing from my routine. I could definitely do more for this pillar or that pillar because I’m not quite experiencing all of that!
You’re on the right track already. Listening to your body and knowing when you need to make a change is more than half the battle.
Luckily, there are many ancient healing practices (some thousands of years old) that people have been turning to throughout the ages. You know the saying, something about not being broken…
Let’s dive into the “how” of it.
Holistic Health Modalities: The “How”
Well, folks, we’ve reached the informational portion of our programming. Buckle up as we take a deep dive into some time-honored holistic modalities that can help fortify each pillar.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), rooted in ancient wisdom and practice, is a holistic healing system that has evolved over thousands of years. Central to TCM is the theory of Qi (pronounced "chee"), the vital life force that flows through channels or meridians in the body. This Qi regulates the body's functions and maintains harmony between Yin and Yang. Any disruption in the flow of Qi can lead to disharmony and disease.
In TCM, the body is also viewed in terms of five elemental energies—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—which correspond to specific organs and bodily functions. Each individual possesses a unique constitution influenced by these elements, as well as by external factors such as diet, lifestyle, environment, and emotional state.
The goal of TCM is to restore balance and harmony within the body by regulating the flow of Qi and addressing imbalances in Yin and Yang. This is achieved through various modalities, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, massage (Tui Na), therapeutic exercise (Qi Gong), and mind-body practices (Tai Chi).
TCM practitioners diagnose patterns of disharmony through careful observation, palpation, questioning, and examination of the tongue and pulse. Treatment plans are tailored to address the root cause of the imbalance and may include a combination of therapies to promote healing and restore health.
By embracing the principles of TCM and aligning with the rhythms of nature, individuals can cultivate vitality, resilience, and overall well-being in body, mind, and spirit.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda, which translates to "the science of life" in Sanskrit, is a holistic healing system that originated in India over 3,000 years ago. Ayurveda views each individual as a unique combination of the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether—and three fundamental energies, or doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas govern various physiological and psychological functions in the body and are believed to influence an individual's physical and mental constitution.
The goal of Ayurveda is to maintain harmony within the body and prevent disease by balancing the doshas through lifestyle practices, dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, detoxification techniques, yoga, meditation, and other therapeutic modalities. It emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature and following daily routines (Dinacharya) and seasonal regimens (Ritucharya) to promote optimal health and longevity.
Ayurveda provides a personalized approach to health care, recognizing that each person has a unique constitution and requires individualized treatment plans. By addressing the root cause of imbalances rather than just treating symptoms, Ayurveda aims to restore health and vitality to the body, mind, and spirit.
Mind-Body Disciplines
Mind-body disciplines bridge the physical and intangible realms. Yogic practices, Qigong, breathwork, and meditation epitomize the art of holistic well-being. On the surface, they enhance flexibility, strength, respiration, and mental focus. They impart mastery over your inner landscape, instilling stability in the face of stress and bringing your spiritual essence into alignment.
Other examples include bodywork practices that delve a little deeper than the surface:
Craniosacral therapy (CST): This gentle, hands-on technique involves light touch to the cranial bones, spine, and sacrum to promote relaxation, alleviate tension, and enhance the functioning of the central nervous system. CST practitioners believe that by releasing restrictions in the soft tissues and promoting the healthy flow of cerebrospinal fluid, this therapy can support the body's innate healing processes and promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Rolfing (Structural Integration): Developed by Ida Rolf, this technique involves deep manipulation of the fascia (connective tissue) to release chronic tension patterns, improve posture, and promote overall structural alignment. Rolfing is based on the idea that physical and emotional stress can cause the fascia to become tight and restricted, leading to pain, limited mobility, and other health issues. By systematically releasing these restrictions and educating clients about healthy movement patterns, Rolfing aims to promote greater ease, flexibility, and mind-body integration.
Energy Healing
Energy healing is a fascinating and increasingly popular branch of holistic health that encompasses various practices designed to balance, harmonize, and promote the healthy flow of vital life force energy within and around the human body. These practices are based on the belief that disturbances or blockages in this subtle energy field can contribute to physical, mental, and emotional health issues, and that by addressing these imbalances, energy healing can support the body's innate healing processes and promote overall well-being.
Here's a more in-depth look at some of the main energy healing modalities mentioned:
Reiki: Originating in Japan, Reiki involves the practitioner channeling universal life force energy through their hands to the recipient, either through light touch or by hovering their hands slightly above the body. Reiki aims to promote deep relaxation, stress reduction, and emotional and physical healing by encouraging the balanced flow of energy throughout the body.
Chakra balancing: This practice is based on the ancient Indian belief in seven main energy centers (chakras) along the spine, each associated with specific physical, emotional, and spiritual qualities. Chakra balancing involves using various techniques, such as visualization, color therapy, sound healing, or hands-on healing to clear blockages and promote the harmonious flow of energy through these centers.
Pranic healing: Pranic healing involves working with the body's energy field (aura) to remove congested or depleted energy and infuse fresh, vital energy (prana). Practitioners use specific hand movements and visualizations to scan the aura, cleanse and energize the chakras, and promote overall energy balance and well-being.
Energy healing modalities are often described as subtle yet profound, as they work on the underlying energetic patterns that influence physical, mental, and emotional health. Many individuals report experiencing a deep sense of relaxation, emotional release, and enhanced well-being following energy healing sessions. Some may also notice improvements in specific physical symptoms or a greater sense of clarity, purpose, and spiritual connection.
At this point you’re probably wondering where modern medicine falls into the equation of a holistic lifestyle.
The beauty is that embracing a holistic approach to well-being emphasizes the whole and that lens doesn't cast aside the incredible value of modern medicine and conventional treatments. It’s not a matter of either/or but yes, and.
Holistic Health & Modern Medicine: the “When”
In conventional medicine, you go see a podiatrist when you have foot issues, a dermatologist when you have skin issues, and a surgeon when you need an operation.
Let’s be honest. We’ve all experienced pitfalls of our modern medical machine including:
Highly siloed and specialized care
Predominantly focuses on physical symptoms
Uses drugs or surgery to suppress/manage surface conditions
Typically centers on a one-size-fits-all treatment protocol
Less emphasis on preventative practices and psychosocial factors
Because of those pitfalls, patients turn to alternative health solutions when the conventional medicine path leads to no answers. In holistic medicine, practitioners take a more dynamic approach, addressing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit.
Holistic practitioners:
View physical, mental, and emotional states as interdependent
Seek to uncover and address the root underlying imbalances
Build wholly individualized treatment plans for bio-individual needs
Prioritize sustainable lifestyle changes and preventative care
Seamlessly blend cutting-edge and traditional natural modalities
Believe the patient is an active partner, and educate them on self-healing techniques
So when do you choose holistic health and when do you choose modern medicine?
You can eat a diet that is rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals, and still take medicine for an underlying condition. You can go to weekly bodywork appointments for a knee injury, and still have surgery to repair it. You can also use plant-based skin care and still get Botox. As with all things holistic wellness, integration based on the individual is key. It’s about balance and what works for you.
Now you may be thinking, Okay, that sounds great. I’m totally on board and ready to roll! But I don’t feel like I could possibly be in the driver seat at this point. I’m in the middle of nowhere with no cell service and can’t figure which way to go.
Don’t sweat it. That’s where the practitioners of these many modalities come in—your holistic guides, if you will. It’s kind of like they have the license to drive and you’re just pointing them in the right direction.
Holistic Guides: The “Who”
Holistic guides, or practitioners, are basically like a personal tour guide for your wellness. So, imagine you're wandering through the streets of a new city, feeling lost and overwhelmed. That's kind of like how it can feel when you're trying to navigate your health on your own. But then, along comes your trusty tour guide (a.k.a. your practitioner), ready to show you the ropes.
They've got the inside scoop on all the best practices with a panoramic view of your well-being. They'll point out the hidden gems of wellness, like the best yoga studios or the most delicious healthy restaurants. They'll help you avoid the tourist traps of fad diets and quick fixes, and instead, guide you towards sustainable lifestyle changes that will leave you feeling empowered.
And just like a good travel guide, a holistic practitioner is there to answer all your questions and provide personalized recommendations. They'll help you create a roadmap for your health journey, complete with pit stops for self-care and scenic routes for stress relief.
But don’t think that a practitioner is just a local with really great advice. Many holistic practitioners begin their journey by obtaining formal education, completing undergraduate studies followed by graduate or professional programs specific to their chosen field. Depending on the modality, holistic practitioners may need to obtain certifications or licenses to practice legally. This often involves completing specific training programs, passing examinations, and fulfilling continuing education requirements.
Holistic practitioners are often committed to lifelong learning and ongoing professional development. They may pursue additional certifications, attend workshops, seminars, conferences, or engage in mentorship programs to deepen their knowledge and skills in their chosen field. Some choose to specialize in specific areas within their field which may require additional training, certifications, or clinical experience.
Here are some examples:
Energy Workers: Whether an acupuncturist or master of other subtle energy practices like Reiki, these specialists restore balanced flow to your meridians and chakras. By stimulating specific points or clearing stagnant blockages, they facilitate a rejuvenating current of vital life force. Many find profound healing not just for physical ailments but also for spiritual renewal.
Structural Therapists: Craniosacral therapists, Rolfers, chiropractors and massage therapists hone in on the body's architectural blueprint through joint manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and other manual techniques. Bringing the musculoskeletal system into integrated alignment can alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and even improve organ function.
Movement Trainers: Personal trainers, pilates, and yoga instructors can help you build resilience in mind and body. Through purposeful movement, breathwork, and meditation, they guide you in. building flexibility, strength, and mind-body attunement while imparting emotional resilience and spiritual-centeredness tools.
Lifestyle Coaches: To integrate all these holistic elements, guides like functional nutritionists, health coaches, and holistic doctors weave a cohesive lifestyle protocol just for you. Diving deep into your bio-individual needs, they'll design a comprehensive roadmap covering everything from bespoke meal plans to stress management to meaningful community connections.
Naturopaths: Drawing from plant-based remedies, naturopathic physicians blend ancient botanical wisdom with current scientific findings. Their training in holistic and conventional medicine supports your body's innate ability to heal itself. Custom protocols carefully integrate herbal medicines, nutritional strategies, detox regimens, and lifestyle counseling.
What’s more, many holistic practitioners work collaboratively with other practitioners, therapists, nutritionists, and healthcare professionals, including conventional medical doctors, to provide comprehensive and integrated care.
Think of it this way. Having a variety of practitioners on your holistic health team is like experiencing a blockbuster film where each character contributes a unique skill to the grand narrative of your well-being. As you work with this all-star cast, your story will unfold in a series of hilarious and heartwarming montages. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll conquer your challenges like the strong protagonist you are. And when the credits roll, you'll realize that your journey to optimal health was the most entertaining, inspiring, and downright fun adventure of your life.
All of this sounds pretty fantastic, right?
But where do I find my dream team? How do I even start?
That’s where RITUALI comes in!
RITUALI's Platform: The “Where”
At RITUALI, we understand that finding the right holistic health practitioners can be a challenge. We realize the hours spent researching different modalities, and then searching for the right practitioner sifting through endless Yelp reviews and social media influencers (because we’ve done it too). We know that your main source of health information usually comes in the form of recommendations from friends, family, and co-workers (and let’s be honest, that limits you to only what worked for them). We know the anxiety of going from first appointment to first appointment hoping to connect (and that starting that process over again can cause you to stop).
And that’s why we’re here.
Our mission is to empower individuals like you to take charge of your wellness journey with confidence and ease. We’re dedicated to revolutionizing the way you connect with top independent holistic professionals. Through our matching process, you'll be paired with curated practitioners whose expertise align with your specific needs and goals. We're here to streamline the process, saving you valuable time and energy by offering a platform that prioritizes quality and convenience. Whether you're seeking stress reduction, preventive care, or root cause resolution, we will help you find your way.
Your wellness ritual awaits.