In a world that often feels fragmented and rushed, embracing a holistic lifestyle can provide a sense of balance and fulfillment. This was the driving reason for me to begin looking into holistic living. I felt tired. My mind, my body, and my soul were all starting to feel defeated, and I had no idea why. I had a career that I loved, but stressful. I have a wonderful support system of family and friends, yet I felt alone. I kept feeling as though I let everyone else down, so I let myself down. I had reached a point where I felt as though I was going to break, and then I did. So, rather than continuing down a devastating cycle of depression and anxiety, I decided to look within myself.
I have been in therapy for years, have been on mood altering medications, and while it brought comfort in the moment, I never found anything that: 1. I continued following through and 2. something that relieved all this mess within myself for more than a few hours. Ultimately, I realized that I am the solution, I just need to find something that works for me. As a result, I found spiritual coaching, reiki energy healing, and mindset coaching. These opened the door for me to transform my lifestyle to one that fits my needs, and that lifestyle is a holistic one.
Holistic living is about integrating different aspects of life—physical, mental, and spiritual—into a cohesive whole. If you’re curious about starting this journey, here are three impactful ways to begin living holistically:
1. Cultivate Mindful Eating
Food is more than just fuel; it’s a cornerstone of holistic well-being. Cultivating mindful eating habits can transform the way you approach nourishment and overall health.
What to Do:
- Prioritize Whole Foods: Opt for fresh, minimally processed foods. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your diet.
- Practice Awareness: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly and savor each bite, focusing on the flavors and textures of your food.
- Balance Your Plate: Ensure your meals are balanced with a mix of macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This helps maintain steady energy levels and supports overall health.
Why It Matters: Mindful eating encourages a deeper connection with your food, promotes better digestion, and helps you develop a more intuitive relationship with eating.
I know personally I do not have a positive relationship with food. When you are practicing mindfulness with what you are putting in to your body, you are more aware of your eating habits. Plus, you can enjoy your food more!
2. Integrate Regular Physical Activity
Movement is a fundamental aspect of holistic health. Regular physical activity not only improves physical fitness but also boosts mental and emotional well-being.
What to Do:
- Find Activities You Enjoy: Whether it’s yoga, hiking, dancing, or swimming, choose activities that you look forward to and that align with your interests.
- Set Realistic Goals: Start with achievable goals and gradually increase intensity and duration. Consistency is key, so find a routine that fits your lifestyle.
- Incorporate Variety: Mix different types of exercise—cardiovascular, strength training, and flexibility exercises—to keep your routine engaging and well-rounded.
Why It Matters: Physical activity releases endorphins, which can reduce stress and anxiety. It also enhances physical health, supports a healthy weight, and improves sleep quality.
When I began, my sole purpose was just to move my energy around. Typically, I would blast music in my room then dance and sing around until I could feel those endorphins. I also incorporate stretching each day, even if I am not exercising, I am still being aware of my physical body and any aches or pains that I need to address.
3. Nurture Your Mental and Emotional Health
Holistic living encompasses emotional and mental well-being just as much as physical health. Taking care of your mental and emotional state is crucial for achieving a balanced life.
What to Do:
- Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness practices or meditation into your daily routine. These practices can help you stay grounded and reduce stress.
- Seek Support: Build a support system of friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others can provide relief and valuable perspectives.
- Engage in Self-Care: Dedicate time to activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s reading, journaling, or simply taking a relaxing bath.
Why It Matters: Fostering emotional resilience and mental clarity can improve your overall quality of life. It helps you manage stress, build healthier relationships, and approach challenges with a positive mindset.
I will admit, as one who did not engage in nurturing my mental health, this is the most important key to me. I find it very difficult to silently meditate, so I just assumed that I could not do it. Rather than limiting my abilities, I looked for help. I began with short 5 minute guided meditations with music, then removed the music, and I am currently at a point where I can meditate silently for about 8 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Starting a holistic lifestyle doesn’t require drastic changes overnight. It’s about making incremental adjustments that align with your values and promote a sense of balance. By focusing on mindful eating, regular physical activity, and nurturing your mental and emotional health, you’re setting the foundation for a more harmonious and fulfilling life. Embrace these practices at your own pace, and remember that holistic living is a journey, not a destination. I am still embracing these practices myself. Some days I excel at incorporating all 3, some days I just really want a chicken Chalupa for a cheat meal. It is about balance, and your own pace, you will have set backs. Just remember that you are capable of achieving anything that any other one person can achieve, you just have to listen to your intuition to get there.