In thinking “holistically” as discussed in my previous blog post, giving consideration to the “whole” person is vital if we are to practice holistic living. Why though, is the term “holistic” at times scoffed at? Perhaps it denotes the term “holy” which is no longer of popularity for many today. So, let us continue with the term “whole-istic.” How may we make ourselves whole?
I first would like to share a quote by T. Collin Campbell from his book “WHOLE – Rethinking the Science of Nutrition,” where he says, “If we are truly to understand the meaning of nutrition, its effects on the body, and its potential to transform our collective health……and start seeing it as a tool, the results of which can only be properly evaluated within a wholistic framework. And we must be willing to embrace wholism beyond the realm of nutrition. The body is a complex system; bodies gathered together in societies are even more complex; and human life, interwoven with all of nature on this planet, is complex beyond our imagining.”
Wellness is defined as “the state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal.” So how do we actively pursue this? In our home, we incorporate a variety of things to support our wellness. By supporting our wellness, we in turn, support the wellness of others. Therapeutic grade essential oils, are one way we support our immunity, emotional balance, promote positive mindset, and overall wellness.
Daily movement, and time in nature is a simple, yet vital tool we incorporate, to support balanced mood, energy, and overall wellness. And, of course balanced meals, and time spent with friends and family. Spiritual wellness, while different for everyone, is something we also prioritize in our home as a family. Time spent listening, and sharing our day around the table means so much, in giving a feeling of belonging, getting feedback, and simply the feeling of being cared for.
Thus, in seeing nutrition as a tool for wellness, while an essential part, nutrition is only a part of the whole. Like Dr. Campbell stated, our bodies are complex systems. Likewise, when we gather together, even more complexities are brought about. Hence, the spread of illness, such as the virus we’ve all had to fight off this past year and a half, and continue to protect ourselves against. I am grateful for our family staying well through this past year and a half, and I had the privilege of caring for some of my family who did become ill during this time. Thankfully, through the use of therapeutic grade essential oils, and various natural remedies, my family members did become well.
Therapeutic grade essential oils have proven to be so beneficial time and again for our family, as they are antimicrobial, and offer so many benefits to both mind and body . To be whole, and well, is not simply a destination you reach, instead it is a daily effort, incorporating various tools, to support sustainable wellness. Eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, lemon, are a few of our favorite oils.
Thinking from a wholistic framework, allows you to self-reflect, and modify what is working for you and what isn’t. The food you’re eating, thoughts you’re thinking, and anything else that is influencing your mind, is in turn, influencing your mood, daily actions, and overall wellness. Taking time to journal, and self-reflect is a perfect way to better implement what works best for you individually.
Whole-istic living is preventive care. Daily care for yourself and yourself and your family, benefits you now and for years to come. This is not to say we never go to a doctor, or take a medication when necessary. However, vast scientific research shows the long-term benefits of incorporating whole foods, and other tools for wellness in preventing disease, and at times, even reversing life-threatening illness.
Here are a few simple ways our family incorporates whole-istic living:
- daily water intake (*tip: always keep a water bottle handy – feeling thirsty is a sign you’re already dehydrated)
- consistent meal times (our bodies better regulate when we maintain a regular rhythm)
- daily movement/walking (this doesn’t have to be an intense workout – simply walking or stretching is a good start!)
- reading/meditating on positive thoughts whether it may be a book to get inspired or listening to a podcast
- supplementation – (i take a few consistent supplements to support overall wellness – always consult with your doctor or healthcare professional when incorporating anything new )
- regular, restful sleep (try getting to bed the same time, and waking up at the same time – sleep is essential in renewing the cells, improving mood/cognition, thus promoting overall wellness)
Currently, our family is slowly getting to bed earlier, to support a more regular sleep rhythm, as we get a bit lenient during summer months. Restful sleep not only supports happier kids, but also a more energized mom, and dad, so we can give our best to our family, and those we work with.
I believe if we start thinking more whole-istically, we may better support sustainable wellness, preventing disease and illness, while living a better quality of life. To learn more ways to incorporate whole-istic living into your daily rhythm, through a personalized plan for you and your family, please schedule at wholerootedwellness.net or email me directly with any questions you may have.
I hope you are staying well, and enjoying sunshine, somewhere!
Best regards,
Laura
HOME ROOTED ESSENCE 