Redefining wellness: holistic approaches for a balanced life
Finding that balance of physical and mental exercise is the key to destressing
By 
IN OUR FAST-PACED world of constant notifications, breaking news, and high productivity expectations, it’s crucial for people to find healthy ways to destress. And while the state of the world looks vastly different compared to when phones used to be just that, stress is ever present, and some people aren’t so well equipt with healthy coping methods to ensure mental and physical health. Here, we break down the benefits of a holistic approach to wellness.
What are the benefits of holistic wellness?
Viewing wellness as a greater picture can help people discover the things that make them truly happy. Just as it’s important to take care of your physical health, it’s also important to nurture relationships in your life. Whether it’s friends, family, coworkers, neighbours, or even strangers, having a better understanding of yourself can help guide your interactions in the world.
And in a time where loneliness is now considered an epidemic, feeling like you’re part of a community is a key component to destressing. There’s a reason why community is a big part of recovery while in rehab; it’s crucial to have people you can rely on and talk to. For example, Highlands Recovery, a luxury rehab centre in Sydney, emphasises personal attention, comfort, care, and feelings of safety to help their clients recover. Beyond any physical and mental changes clients experience, strong interpersonal connections can help people move forward.
What are some mental health practices?
It’s important to be mindful of our daily activities, especially when most people who own a smartphone aimlessly scroll for hours or may pick up their phones over 200 times a day. On the internet, people may see upsetting news that makes them feel sad, anxious, or angry.
Mindfulness takes everyday tasks and turns them into slow, intentional actions. Instead of accidentally finding yourself scrolling, you begin to reconsider why you need to be on your phone at all.
Additionally, meditation and journaling practices are tools that help individuals understand the fundamentals of mindfulness. Reflecting on your day or week may help you discover the things that are secretly weighing you down and the things that you really enjoy.
Why physical health matters too
Much like sharks that need to constantly be in motion to breathe, exercises like running help bring oxygen to the brain. But aside from its numerous cardiovascular and longevity benefits, exercise in general also releases endorphins into the body, those ‘feel good’ chemicals that help you unwind and sleep better.
Equally as important, having a well-rounded diet contributes to better athletic performance, energy during the day, and immunity. No one likes getting sick or that mid-afternoon crash that can turn work into a less-than-fun activity. Eating balanced meals can help support your mood throughout the day. So consider a 3 p.m. sweet treat?
Achieving balance: holistic wellness is a self-guided journey
Realising that wellness is both a physical and mental journey presents a unique journey for everyone – no two methods are ever the same. While achieving balance isn’t always easy, it’s a step in the right direction to destress from the chaos of life and to find one’s own purpose.
Whatever exercise works for your lifestyle can be the best way to unwind, be it running, swimming, or something especially adventurous like rock climbing. Making stronger relationships and being mindful are all steps to reduce one’s stress.
Consider mental and physical health as two broader circles that encompass a host of other daily activities within them. It can feel overwhelming at times, but feeling happy, healthy, and comfortable is well worth the effort.
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