Holistic health specialists are as guilty as any scientific community of using catch phrases or buzz words that alienate audiences who need the techniques and practices they offer for healing and wellness.
You’ve probably heard the term “Integrative Therapy”... but what does that actually mean?
Well, the effectiveness of holistic healing springs from the foundational idea that each human is a manifestation of a mind, a body, and spirit. When illness is present - whether it be an issue of mental health, bodily disease, or spiritual/existential angst - the body and mind are out of balance and spirit is obscured.
Holistic treatment focuses on bringing awareness to the body and mind, clearing them of blockages, enlivening their natural connection to each other, and then re-establishing the flow of life force. When this is done, the spirit that dwells within shines forth naturally. From here, focus shifts to maintaining a state of balance. This is accomplished through consistent observance of daily routines, appropriate diet, and intermittent seasonal cleansing and rejuvenation.
The act of connecting mind, body, and spirit is called “integration.” When that process begins, the deep awareness that is a result of functioning as an integrated whole can be developed and explored.
The idea is: life is meaningful and becomes harmonious when the mind/body/spirit are working together. That is - when there is integration. Achieving an integrated state of being is the journey of a lifetime - and one worth pursuing! The rewards are profound, subtle, blissful, and enduring.
Ayurveda offers time-tested tools for establishing and maintaining integration. The Ayurvedic approach balances the doshas (the three fundamental energies: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and promotes regulation and flow of life force (prana).
Ayurvedic practices, lifestyle, and body therapies offer an approach to treating the factors that get in the way of the mind/body/spirit connection, such as:
- Relieving Stress and Anxiety: Chronic stress and anxiety can create a disconnect between the mind and body. When the mind is constantly preoccupied with worries and tensions, it becomes challenging to be fully present in the body and its sensations.
- Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits: Poor eating habits, lack of exercise, insufficient sleep, and substance abuse can negatively impact both the mind and body, leading to physical and mental imbalances.
- Emotional Trauma: Past traumas and unresolved emotional issues can create blockages that hinder the free flow of energy and emotions between the mind and body.
- Unhealthy Thought Patterns: Negative thought patterns, self-criticism, and low self-esteem can create a rift between the mind and body and affect overall well-being.
- Overemphasis on Rational Thinking: In modern society, there is often an overemphasis on rational thinking and neglect of emotional and intuitive aspects. This can lead to a disconnection from the body's wisdom and signals.
- Lack of Mindfulness: Not being fully present in the current moment and constantly living in the past or future can impede the integration of mind and body.
- Environmental Factors: Living in a stressful or toxic environment can impact mental and physical health, hindering mind-body integration.
- Physical Health Conditions: Certain physical health conditions or chronic illnesses may affect mental well-being and disrupt the connection between the mind and body.
- Cultural and Societal Pressures: Societal norms, cultural expectations, and the pressure to conform to certain standards can create internal conflicts and affect the mind-body relationship.
- Disconnected Modern Lifestyles: In today's fast-paced world, people often feel disconnected from nature, their bodies, and their inner selves, leading to a lack of mind-body integration.
To promote the health and harmony that come from living in a state of mind and body integration, individuals can explore mindfulness meditation, yoga, Ayurvedic practices, adopt a balanced lifestyle, focus on self-care, seek emotional support, and cultivate self-awareness. Working with healthcare professionals, therapists, and counselors can help address underlying issues and promote overall well-being. There is a rich and dynamic experience of life awaiting those who choose to set themselves upon the path of holistic healing, self-discovery, and integration!