What is Holistic Health?

I am often asked about holistic health and how it differs from mainline medicine. Naturopathy  was the earliest known healing system. Before surgery and pharmaceuticals, foods, water and whole herbs were used by many cultures for a wide range of problems.  Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was likely the best known of the older naturopathic scientists.  His best contribution may be the principle of "first do no harm."  

Naturopaths and holistic health practitioners believe in prevention and also in the power of the body to heal itself, given the right tools.  We believe that by identifying the cause and supporting it's healing, everything else will improve.  The body can heal itself of just about anything if it is clear of toxins and given the proper nutrition, rest, mental outlook and natural stimulation.  The naturopath trusts that the natural processes within the body want it to heal.  The goal is to identify the cause of problems, eliminate toxins, recommend substances to deal with deficiencies, and stimulate the body's own natural healing abilities.  It is always taken into account that everyone is different and that not everyone with the same problem will benefit with the same solution.

Natural healing is not quackery or a cult.  "It is the science of nature, the biological way of living right." (Dr. Benedict Lust)  It is a mixture of modalities intended to encourage the body to heal itself as it was created to do, with attention also being given to the mind and spirit.

To take this path means a person must take responsibility for their own health.  This is empowering to some, yet daunting to others.  It takes time, work, and determination to change habits, including food, water consumption, sleeping, exercise, and reducing toxins along with adding in supplements and/or herbs if necessary.  However, getting to the root of health issues will mean an overall healthier body, mind and spirit, which will be better equipped to fight off disease, infections, and anything else that comes on life's journey.    If you would like to know more about how to address your health through natural means, contact me here or on my Facebook page.   I would be honored to help you in any way that I can.

Sources:  Naturopathy for the 21st Century, Robert J. Thiel,, PhD

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