Many ask about holistic medicine and what it is, and the definition is as simple as comprehensive: it is a method of healing that seeks to take care of the body, mind and soul of the person through traditional and complementary therapies. Its objective is to reach an optimal state of health, in which diseases are prevented and treated.
In this medicine, the person is an individual who falls ill due to a physical, emotional, spiritual, social or an environmental imbalance. Therefore, healing comes naturally when these aspects are balanced, therefore the doctor is a guide and mentor of the patient.
Principles of holistic medicine
The main objective of holistic medicine is optimal health. This means that all parts of our body and mind function at their optimal level and in balance, thus being fully alive. In addition, holistic medicine focuses on love as a healing power, considering it the most powerful of all.
From this practice, the human being as a whole is considered, in order to try to prevent illnesses to the greatest extent possible, as well as to treat those already existing in an integral area, and not only treating the symptoms. Holistic practitioners try to make the patient heal on their own, since it is considered that all people have an innate healing power.
Holistic medicine does not reject traditional medicine, quite the contrary. Sometimes traditional treatments, medications and surgeries are used, but they are also accompanied by complementary activities and changes in lifestyle.
In addition, the relationship between doctor and patient, which is considered fundamental in medicine, understand and complement the points of view of both parties, is highly valued. They consider that everything that happens is a way of learning, and that holistic doctors have to teach by example.
Alternative therapies used in holistic medicine
The alternative therapies used in holistic medicine can range from changes in lifestyle – quitting smoking, changes in diet, more active life – to using particular methods such as homeopathy, acupuncture, hypnosis, meditation or yoga . Sometimes they advise their patients to be included in support groups and counseling for different causes.
Carey Wedler talks about one of the holistic medicines Yoga @ Anarchapulco
With the use of different treatments that deal with the body, mind and soul, the patient can reach a state of total well-being, and not only the health of a part of his body. This is because many holistic doctors consider that most diseases have an underlying cause that is often not treated by traditional medicine.
You can check out our article about meditation on Emancipated Human here.
The history of holistic medicine
Holistic medicine has its roots in ancient healing traditions. It was promoted by people like Plato or Socrates, as well as by Hippocrates. But it was only in 1926 when the term holism was coined by Jan Christiaan Smuts, although the high point of this methodology occurred in the 1970s.
Have you used holistic medicine? If so please let me know your thoughts and comments below.
