Holistic medicine isn’t an up-and-coming trend like many believe it is; it is one of the oldest forms of healthcare and is thought to have originated more than 3,000 years ago. Not only does holistic healthcare rely on natural remedies, it also takes into account the whole being of a person to determine the best route to take for healing.
Two of the most well-documented and ancient practices of holistic health are Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda. “Chinese medicine, also referred to as eastern or oriental medicine, is a broad term for a spectrum of alternative medicinal techniques and studies. Some common forms include: acupuncture, cupping, herbal medicine, Tai Chai, Qi Gong, meditation, and moxibustion. TCM holds the belief of yin and yang, the balance of opposing energies. When yin and yang are balanced, you feel calm and energized. But when yin and yang are unbalanced, your health is negatively affected.
Ayurveda, or “the science of life” in Sanskrit, is “a holistic system of medicine that originated in India thousands of years ago. Its basic approach is to balance the mind, body and spirit through traditional techniques and treatments that promote health and prevent illness.” Ayurveda is also known for the practice of massage therapy, meditation, and yoga.
Around the 4th century BC, physicians discovered the cause of disease to be germs. Care was no longer seen as a cooperative action, it was seen as a reactive measure. Medicines were created to target certain issues, unlike holistic approaches that address the whole being. Instead of focusing on the whole being, the focus shifted to symptoms and conditions of the body.
In 1960, the western holistic movement began in the US, addressing fears on the reliability of drugs for healing. In 1975, the first National Conference on Holistic Health was hosted in California. In 1978, Holistic Medical Association was founded, and in 1981 the American Holistic Nurses Association was established.
As modern medicine advances and changes, many are looking for an effective and healthy alternative to the harsh options now available. Whatever care option you decide moving forward with, take into account all the factors that affect with and your health. If you need guidance with your health, reach out to me for a Discovery Call for the help you need.
