Holistic [hoh-lis-tik]
Adjective:
-
Incorporating the concept of holism, or the idea that the whole is more than merely the sum of its parts, in theory or in practice.
Medicine/Medical. Identifying with principles of holism in a system of therapeutics, especially one considered outside the mainstream of scientific medicine, such as naturopathy or chiropractic, and often involving nutritional measures: holistic medicine.
The word holistic is derived from the Greek word ‘holos’ meaning ‘whole’ and true to form, in holistic therapy the body is treated as a whole rather than a sum of its parts. Instead of only addressing a symptom, a therapist will try to identify the underlying cause by considering all aspects of wellbeing; physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual.
Socrates said in the 4th century BC,
“the part can never be well unless the whole is well”.
A holistic therapist works to restore the natural balance and harmony of the body. Modern lifestyles can easily throw us off balance; stressful jobs, fast-paced lives, pollutants, chemicals and poor diets can all affect our wellbeing. Many people experience anxiety, stress and fatigue because daily life does not always support our emotional and mental health.
Rather than relying only on medication, many people turn to holistic therapies to support overall wellbeing. Holistic healing dates back thousands of years in India and China and is based on the idea that we should live in balance with nature and the energy around us. Alternative therapies can help reduce stress, improve relaxation and support general health.
Below are some of the holistic therapies offered at Total Health Clinics.
Acupuncture
Dating back over 2,000 years, acupuncture is a Chinese therapy designed to balance the flow of energy through the body. Fine needles are inserted to remove blockages that disrupt the body’s natural balance.
In Western medicine, acupuncture is often used to relieve musculoskeletal pain by stimulating the nervous system and encouraging the body’s natural healing response.
Reiki Massage
Despite the name, Reiki does not involve physical massage. Originating from Tibetan practices over 2,000 years ago, Reiki is a healing technique where the practitioner channels energy to help restore balance in the body.
Reiki focuses on realigning the body’s energy centres, often called chakras, which can lead to feelings of relaxation, calm and wellbeing. You do not need to follow any spiritual beliefs to benefit from Reiki.
Sometimes a therapist may spend longer working on a particular chakra. For example, the throat chakra relates to communication, and tension in this area may be linked to emotional stress or unresolved situations. Many people feel that Reiki helps them feel clearer, calmer and more balanced.
Reflexology
Reflexology involves massage of the feet, and sometimes the hands. Similar therapies date back to ancient Egypt and China, but reflexology became popular in the West in the 1960s.
The theory behind reflexology is that specific points on the feet correspond to different parts of the body. By applying pressure to these areas, the therapist can help restore balance and improve wellbeing.
Tender areas in the feet may indicate tension or imbalance elsewhere in the body. Reflexology may also stimulate the lymphatic system, and some people feel tired afterwards as the body naturally removes toxins.
Holistic treatments allow the body to show where attention is needed, whether physically, mentally or emotionally. You do not need a GP referral for holistic therapy, but practitioners cannot provide medical diagnoses. If symptoms persist, you should always consult your GP.
