Treating the WHOLE person (HOLISTIC)

Treating The Whole Person

According to many world health systems, such as neuropathy, homeopathy and traditional Chinese medicine, the body has natural tendency to strive toward equilibrium, or “homeostasis”, when equilibrium is disrupted, holistic practitioners work close with the patient, focusing on all aspects of the patient life to promote self healing. A common misconception is that holistic healing is the sole preserve of complimentary practitioners. In fact many conventional doctors have holistic approach. Considering patients in the contacts of their lifestyle, and emphasizing health education and self care. Psychiatrists and psychologist also give a distinct nod to holistic principles.

On the other hand, not all complimentary therapies are inherently “holistic” or “spiritual” nor are they necessarily anti specific or anti intellectual. Because of this, many practitioners interested in holistic principles often prefer to talk of “integrated” medicine.

An integrated approach can and often does combine the best mainstream medicine and complimentary therapy. Cognitive behavioral might be suggested to evolve strategies for coping with asthma attacks, hypnosis to relieve stress, or purchase of special bedding and vacuum cleaner to minimize housedust mites if they trigger attacks. A complementary meanwhile might describe a herbal remedy to relax bronchial muscles, a diet to eliminate food intolerances, acupuncture to restore the flow of “QI” or massage with essential oils to ease tension and to induce relaxation.