What is Holistic Health?

Holistic health is a lifestyle approach where taking care of your health means you realize that it embodies the overall well-being of the whole person: mind, body, soul. These aspects of holistic health include physical, emotional, spiritual, social, intellectual, and environmental factors, in which they affect one another. You understand that all aspects of your life (directly and indirectly) is a part of your overall health. A person chooses to take care of themselves in a more natural way for natural healing. It doesn't mean that the person will completely reject modern conventional medical means, but also is aware of the consequences, such as taking an antibiotic. Knowing full well that it not only kills your bad bacteria, but the good bacteria in your gut, as well. It is a bomb for your gut and could take 6+ months to recover. Just know that your health and wellness journey is a rollercoaster and will continue to evolve as you implement the knowledge you gain.

Each aspect of Holistic Health can overlap with others and influence one another.

* Physical - includes your proper nutrition, movement and exercise, good quality sleep, hydration, experiencing and exploring life

* Emotional - includes relationships, can be affected by your physical/spiritual journey and diet, perspective and understanding on certain situations or topics, thoughts and feelings

* Spiritual - includes your core beliefs of God and this world, beliefs on the meaning of life and purpose, your spiritual practices, meditation, morality, aids in calming the body and mind, source of inner joy and peace

* Social - includes relating, engaging, and interacting with others, family, community groups and circles, career, vocations, social awareness and perspective when communicating with people

* Intellectual - includes the ability to think critically, problem solve, learning, being creative, cognitive abilities, memory, alertness, thoughts, can be influenced by diet, relationships, what you read or listen to, desire to expand your knowledge, curiosity about life and other specific topics

* Environmental Factors - includes the comfort level of your surroundings, your home, air /water quality, cleaning products you use, plastic use, technology, skincare, toxins you are exposed to daily, and what you do to better your surroundings and space

All of these influence a person's behavior and your behavior influences your overall health.

In my studies through the Nutritious Life Studio, I was taught to include the 8 pillars of healthy living, which includes:

*Eat Empowered

*Sleep Deep

*Drink Up

*Nurture Yourself

*Live Consciously

*Sweat Often

*Love More

*Stress Less

I infuse all of these aspects of holistic living and the pillars from The Nutritious Life Studio into my own life and with my clients. You have the ability to make positive healthy changes in your life by taking baby steps. Eventually, those small steps forward will and can eventually become part of your healthy lifestyle. I know it is easier said than done, but it can only be done by taking actionable steps, having accountability, and with consistent practice. Practice, Practice, Practice! You only get out, what you put in. There is no such thing as failing... just get right back up and get back on track! Any progress, is progress! It is all about the progress, the journey is important!

When a person decides to take a more holistic approach due to an injury or illness, one may try to avoid prescription or over the counter medication for more natural ways of healing such as movement, sunshine, sauna sessions, ice bath, taking herbs, extra doses of vitamins and minerals, adaptogens, eating and drinking specific foods, or even use other methods such as naturopathy, acupuncture, or chiropractic care. Even when deciding to take these medications, being aware of the side effects is important.

One thing to remember is that we are never going to be perfect! It is about awareness and making the best choices for ourselves! Be aware of what you eat and drink, your environment, the products you use, and knowing those things can help us make the best decision. I may try to eat as healthy as possible most days, but when I travel or celebrate a special day... I will enjoy a delicious (not as nutritious) treat or an amazing meal at a new restaurant as conscious indulgences. Once you make that decision, enjoy and there is no need to feel guilty. As you make those decisions for yourself, you will discover what works for you and what doesn't. Everyone is different, and you learn what you are capable of, what your triggers are, what your body likes or doesn't like, and the goal is to figure out how to balance all of the aspects of your life into a healthy lifestyle. What works for me, may not work for you and vice versa. We are each uniquely designed, but we also have our basic health needs that everyone benefits from: good sleep, proper hydration, nutrition by eating whole foods, movement, healthy relationships and community. Living a holistic life doesn't mean becoming a hermit either. We can still enjoy what our modern society provides, but again, be aware of what those things can do to us and for us (good or bad). We can use modern technology for our benefit.

I believe that we can use different tactics in order to live well and be healthy. We can start by eating nutritious whole foods. Eating good quality foods from nature is important. Your body needs to be nourished in order for it to function like it needs to. Living a healthy and nutritious life, means making those positive changes a lifestyle. Once it is embedded into your lifestyle, they become part of a routine. It makes an individual feel good from the inside out. Everyone is different, so tailoring your wellness habits and nutrition to your life, interests, knowledge, and situation are important.

We all have a different health and wellness journey, so I will meet you where you are. I am here to help you develop healthy habits, to eat well, to educate you, and work with you towards your personal health goals. So if you are looking to become a healthier version of you. Let me know and I would love to walk you through that journey! I will be your biggest fan and cheerleader!

In love and health,

Dalia