In the United States, the current life expectancy is 78.6 years, on average. That’s pretty good, considering that in the 1950s, it hovered around 68.2 years. However, living longer doesn’t necessarily mean Americans are living better. In fact, the World Economic Forum reports that Americans are now spending more years in poor health than at any other historical time! What’s the point of living longer if you spend the final years of your life feeling miserable?
Fortunately, things don’t have to look so gloomy. You have more control over your longevity and quality of life than you may realize. The key is to focus on obtaining optimal holistic health. The term “holistic health” refers to a person’s mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual health. Here’s what you should know about holistic wellness and why taking care of your mind is just as important as caring for your body.
The Connection Between Mental and Physical Health
From a holistic perspective, you can’t really separate physical health from mental health. The two are intrinsically connected. That’s why you’re more likely to develop mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety if you’re in poor physical health. Similarly, if your mental health is suffering, you’re less likely to have the energy or motivation to care for your physical health.
Some people avoid seeking mental health help because they don’t want to add the extra expense to their weekly or monthly budget. However, you can shop around for the cheapest therapy available if you’re worried about spending extra money. It helps if you keep in mind that improving your mental health could lower your risk of cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, and other diseases. If you remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health, therapy becomes more of a necessity than a luxury.
Four Pillars of Holistic Health
Now that you know how mental and physical health relate to each other, it’s time to give each equal importance in your holistic health strategy. Here are four pillars of holistic health that will get you started on the path to optimal mental and physical well-being.
1. Physical Activity
Regular exercise is crucial for physical health, but did you know it also boosts mental health? While you’re building cardiovascular and muscular strength, you’re also releasing chemicals called endorphins into the brain. These chemicals create a rapid biochemical response that promotes feelings of happiness and euphoria. Exercising outdoors can give you an even greater release of endorphins.
To optimize the holistic benefits of regular physical activity, it’s important to challenge yourself without over-exerting your body. Injuring yourself could set you back by forcing you to temporarily take a break from physical activity while you recover. It’s best to ease into a new workout routine slowly and patiently. Give your body sufficient time to acclimate to any new physical activity.
2. Optimal Nutrition
Did your parents ever tell you, “You are what you eat”? You might have thought the saying was silly or confusing back then, but there’s actually a lot of truth to it! In today’s fast-paced world, society relies too much on fast foods, frozen dinners, and other heavily processed dietary options to stay satiated. Unfortunately, these types of foods are often excessively rich in calories but alarmingly poor in nutrients.
To make sure your mind and body receive the nutrients they need to thrive, it’s crucial to focus on the quality of the foods you put into your mouth. Whenever possible, make meals at home using fresh, whole ingredients. Gradually reduce the amount of sugars and processed foods you consume by slowly replacing them with healthier options. With time, your taste buds should change and start preferring real food over nutritionally devoid counterfeits.
3. Mindfulness and Stress Management
Learning how to manage stress is a non-negotiable skill if you want to maintain good holistic health in today’s demanding society. If you get easily overwhelmed and feel like you can’t cope with the challenges of life, consider practicing mindfulness. It may sound simplistic, but mindfulness can cultivate a sense of calm and make it easier to get through life’s hardships with resilience.
To practice mindfulness, set aside chunks of time throughout the day to check in with yourself. Ask yourself questions like, “What emotions am I feeling right now?” and “What parts of my body are feeling the effects of excess stress?” Give yourself permission to deeply feel whatever you’re processing in the moment. If you need help practicing mindfulness, look for online tutorials that guide you through the process so you can enjoy the holistic health benefits.
4. Quality Sleep
Sleep isn’t just a time to escape from the pressures of the day for a few hours. It’s a crucial healing opportunity for your mind and body. Quality sleep is imperative for holistic health because it allows the body to repair itself and prepare for the demands of the next day. Quality sleep gives the immune system time to recharge so it can adequately protect the body. It also gives the mind and soul time to rest and rejuvenate.
If you’re struggling to get adequate sleep, try immersing yourself in a relaxing pre-bedtime activity each night. You might take a bath, read a book, or practice meditation. Avoid caffeine, blue light exposure, or any other stimulant at least a few hours before bed. If necessary, use natural sleep aids such as valerian root or chamomile to calm your body and mind so you can drift off to sleep.
Conclusion
If you want to live your healthiest, most fulfilling life, start working on your holistic wellness. Keep the above tips in mind when developing a routine that’s equally focused on your mental and physical health.
