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Conventional medicine finds diseases that have developed and treats the symptoms that come from them. Alternatively, holistic health looks at the body as a whole system that is interdependent on its separate parts, all contributing to wellness. Wellness refers to each part of health being balanced and working together properly, and it encompasses physical, emotional, intellectual, social and spiritual wellness.

Physical: state of physical fitness that includes regular activity, good nutrition, proper hydration, adequate sleep

Emotional: identifying, processing, and expressing emotions in healthy ways, as well as having a strong ability to cope with stress and uncertainty

Intellectual: finding ways to expand knowledge and skills and recognizing one’s creative abilities and interests; having new experiences and growing in mindset

Social: having a sense of connection, belonging, and having a well-developed support system; the ability to create and maintain close friendships; the ability to love others well

Spiritual: possessing a sense of purpose and meaning, having an understanding of what you value

The body works as a whole, interconnected system. If one part of the system is struggling, the others will struggle as a result. Emotional wellness will falter if social wellness has been lacking, but emotional stress will increase risk of physical conditions like depression and heart disease. Of course, we all know how a good night’s sleep can improve our social, emotional, mental, and physical states! Laughing with a friend decreases stress, thereby supporting proper immune function and anti-inflammatory pathways. Reversely, social isolation causes increased inflammation, which is the bedrock for many chronic diseases if left untreated longterm. It’s well documented the relationship between gut dysbiosis and mental disorders like depression. The different aspects of health work together and help to maintain wellness.

What areas of your health do you feel need a boost?