The term ‘holistic living’ is not a new one, but many people don’t seem to know what it means. It is often used interchangeably with ‘holistic healing’ and ‘conscious living’. While these latter terms are related to holistic living, they are just a part of this all-encompassing concept.
Holistic healing consists of treatment modalities based on holism, which is the notion that healing must consist of the body, mind and spirit aspects of a person’s being. Examples of holistic healing methods include Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and a myriad of other treatments. Holistic health is certainly a big part of holistic living.
Conscious living usually refers to the everyday conscious choices made to protect the environment from further damage. This too is part of living holistically, because it implies making an effort to live in harmony with nature.
Holistic living then, takes the body, mind and spirit healing that takes place within and reflects it outwards to the rest of humankind and all living things, beyond the self. It also embraces mindful choices to bring healing and wellness to our beloved planet and its creatures.
Unfortunately, modern society doesn’t reinforce holistic living principles. On the contrary, the constant drive to evolve toward a more innovative and technologically advanced way of life removes us more and more from the ability to live a balanced lifestyle.
For seekers who wish to remove themselves from the hurried, unconscious construct of our ‘Western’ mentality, the path lies within.
Awareness of such egoic constructs is essential. This will begin to dissolve attachments to possessions, status and all the illusory beliefs we hold. So will care and compassion toward the body, the only vehicle granted to us during this lifetime. As within, this conscious effort will be required toward others and the planet.
When given the chance to manifest this awareness toward the self, others and nature, each of us can live more fully and holistically.
Tags: balanced lifestyle, body mind and spirit, chinese herbal medicine, conscious choices, conscious living, harmony with nature, holistic healing methods, mind and spirit, spirit healing, therapeutic massage