8 Simple Steps Toward Whole Body Health

It’s hard to believe that the concept of whole body health has taken so long to gain traction. The notion that the root cause of an ache/pain should be considered when you and I are experiencing discomfort seems like it should be the standard approach in all medicine. However, that is simply not the case.

Our medical practitioners are trained to focus on symptoms. In other words, treat one issue, and when the symptoms subside or are no longer a concern, their work is done.

But, what if a doctor took a closer look at a patient who visited their practice? Only to discover their complaints of fatigue, in reality meant they were pre-diabetic, experiencing anxiety or perhaps having heart trouble?

I know, I know, we just covered a wide array of ailments. But, that should make you favor the whole body approach even more. Because instead of putting a bandaid over a symptom, the whole body approach takes a look at all facets of your life to determine your health and wellness.

What is Whole Body Health?

Whole body health encompasses 8 pillars of wellness. The focus is on lifestyle, such as low tox living, restorative sleep, stress management, physical activity, and soul food (i.e. relationships, career, and spirituality). Not to mention, nutrition, mindset, and building good habits. When one element is out of sorts, therein lays the potential to wreak havoc on your efforts for better health.

So, what are some simple ways to take a holistic approach to your health?

8 Simple Steps to Whole Body Health

Now, keep in mind there is no one size fits all approach to health and wellness. But, I believe that if we all focused on theses 8 simple steps we would all be a lot happier and healthier…

Get More Sleep!
That’s right, if you aren’t getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night your health is likely suffering. Creating a solid bedtime routine is one sure fire way to make sure you always get the amount of sleep your body needs to function at its best.
Getting more sleep is a great place to start because it doesn’t cost anything and can have a significant positive impact on your health and well-being. If you need help improving your sleep, then you need to check out this free guide.
Daily movement, at least 30 minutes
Review your schedule for tomorrow right now. When can you fit in a 30 minute walk? If your day is looking a little hectic, maybe break down the 30 minutes into two 15 minute sessions… And, if that’s not a possibility either, maybe you should re-evaluate your schedule because you might be overbooked. Which means, it’s time to set up some personal boundaries.
Reduce (and eventually eliminate) processed foods from your diet, and incorporate more fresh, local and organic foods. Learn more about The Staples of Good Nutrition here.
Lean on breath work when you find it hard to focus or feel stressed. You can enhance this experience by hand diffusing your favorite essential oil. If you need to focus, take control of your emotions or anything in between, there are natural solutions to help you take your efforts to the next level.
Get outside!
Spending time in nature will uplift your mind + mood.
Ever since the start of the pandemic our family has started many days by heading out for a nature walk. Taking one hour to explore the nearby forest, slow down and view the slow and steady pace of nature has really worked wonders on our spirits!
Connect with your social circle.
Pick at least one friend/family member to connect with each day. As we get older, it can be a little bit more difficult to keep in touch with those we love. Try to set aside a specific time each day to reach out to one person – whether via text, email or phone call. According to Blue Zones, social connections provide intellectual stimulation and emotional support through hardships.
Find time to journal your thoughts for at least 10 minutes each day. This simple activity will help to declutter your mind, and elevate your mood as well.
Analyze your habits with this habit hacker worksheet. Break bad habits and replace them with healthy alternatives in order to gain more control over your daily routine.

GAIN CLARITY AND A RENEWED COMMITMENT TO YOUR HEALTH

If you need some guidance on your journey to better health, then you should definitely consider working with a health and wellness coach. As a wellness coach and mentor, I will work with you to co-create a wellness plan that addresses your top health concerns, and moves you toward your ideal vision of health within your unique body, and lifestyle.

If you are interested in learning more, definitely check out my 1:1 Wellness Mentorship and the Lifestyle Launch Strategy Session!

Until next time,