Need of holistic health care_but first what is health!!

One of the unique experiences in human existence is the uniqueness of each individual being. Entropy exists in each species to help adapt and survive. We are less predictable and cannot be put into any kind of structure, not only societal but overall, even something as simple as being bound to a particular diet, healthcare regime, or a specific thought process. The more flexible we are, the more adaptable we become, and the stronger we are to bear the impact of a constantly evolving existence.

When it comes to health, as defined, it is not only physical but extends to emotional dimensions as well, along with aspects that we access in a more spiritual sense. To simplify, let us consider the dimensions also mentioned in the WHO definition of health, which encompasses physical, mental, and social health. As the definition goes: a state of complete physical, mental, and social well being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Let us understand the concept of social well being. The need for social well being lies in how we function in society, the work that we do, the relationships that we build, and the aims that we pursue. This aligns with the first limb of the eight limbed system of Yog, called Ashtang Yog. This first limb is the Yamas, or the social code, how we function in society. While this is a separate discussion in terms of health, it is important to understand that mere individual physical fitness may not be enough and thus needs to be nurtured along with other aspects of health, such as mental and spiritual dimensions.

Work on physical health is quite commonly understood and practiced. However, in current times, it becomes equally important to dive into other aspects that help us become more holistic beings, to work on the holistic dimensions of physical, mental, and spiritual well being. Having said that physical fitness is the doorway to a holistic healthcare, even the eight limbs of Ashthang Yog lead with Asanas which is a more physical practice and then dive into deeper mindfulness aspect.

In the holistic dimension of physical health, it is important to work on strength, flexibility, balance, etc. Mental well being largely includes a state of equanimity amidst major triggers. Further research suggests partial evidence for a causal association between physical activity and depression in young people, and evidence for a causal association between physical activity and cognitive functioning in young people.

What is holistic practice, one might ask? The answer is not simple. It is important to first assess what the current physical practice is that one does or has done in the past where one feels more energetic. It may be visiting a gym, jogging, Yog, or playing a sport.

The first assessment is this: does the current practice holistically align with the basic goals of maintaining a normal BMI and the functional capacity needed every day to walk or work without feeling drained? After assessing this, it is important to stay consistent with the practice for at least a week and then assess the following parameters: strength, balance, and flexibility. Another important parameter that can be assessed with continued practice is mindfulness and awareness of one’s own body and breath. 

We shall delve deeper into each attribute in the subsequent sections to understand the approach of individualized practice.

References:

1. S.J.H. Biddle et al. Physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents: An updated review of reviews and an analysis of causality Psychology of Sport and Exercise (2019)

2. Holistic movement practices – an emerging category of physical activity for exercise psychology Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 53 (2021), pp. 1-11, 10.1016/j.psychsport.2020.101870