Physical and mental health are inextricably intertwined in ways researchers are still only beginning to understand. However, one thing we know for certain is that taking steps to improve your physical health can make you more mentally resilient, and vice versa. For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control, people living with chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease are more vulnerable to developing mental illnesses like depression or anxiety, while mental health disorders are also a significant risk factor for long-lasting physical conditions.
What Is Holistic Health?
While many Western health practitioners have been slow to embrace the idea of holistic wellness, traditional Eastern philosophies such as Taoism and Buddhism view the body, mind and spirit as interconnected. Though there are many ways to measure your overall well-being, Western medicine tends to be siloed, treating physical and mental health as separate entities instead of addressing their interconnected nature.
A holistic approach to healthy living includes a blend of multiple complementary approaches for a more inclusive way of life. For example, at Vista Taos Renewal Center, we combine evidence-based addiction and mental health treatment with nutrition, massage, yoga, meditation and spirituality. By blending these therapies, we help our clients experience wellness on a profound level that naturally lends itself to joy and contentment.
All-Natural Ways to Become Healthier and Happier
How can you holistically improve your mental and physical health? Consider incorporating a plan that combines physical, emotional and spiritual benefits for all-around fitness.
- Exercise: Working out is excellent for every aspect of your health. It gives you more energy, promotes a better sleep schedule, improves your circulation and boosts your mood and memory. You don’t need to spend hours in the gym to see the mental health benefits of exercise. Try 30 minutes of moderate activity five times a week. If you are starting a workout regimen after being inactive, start slowly and work your way up to longer exercise sessions. The more you work out, the better you will feel.
- Nutrition: The typical American diet is not conducive to wellness. Try switching to unprocessed foods such as fresh produce and whole grains and notice how much better you feel.
- Volunteer: Getting involved in making a positive change for your community can create a sense of euphoria nicknamed the “helper’s high.” Volunteering has outstanding psychological benefits that connect you to something larger than yourself.
- Self-care: Any healthy activity that bolsters your mental health can constitute self-care. Set aside breaks in your schedule to read a book, take a relaxing walk, listen to music, write in a journal or reflect on things you are grateful for.
- Mindfulness: If you lead a busy lifestyle, you may find yourself rushing through your days without taking time to stop and smell the roses. Mindfulness is a practice that cultivates patience and enhances your ability to take each moment as it comes, without dwelling in the past or worrying about the future. There are many ways to incorporate more mindfulness into your daily activities, so you can try them all and learn which one resonates with you.
Experience Improved Mental and Physical Health at Vista Taos
At Vista Taos, we are here for clients who need to reclaim their lives by establishing independence from drugs and alcohol. As a nationally accredited substance abuse treatment center, we provide a comprehensive medical, emotional and spiritual approach to improving all facets of your well-being. Contact us today to learn more.
