You are not just your body.  When considering being healthy we often focus just on the body, and we forget that there is so much more.  At SEE Alternatives, we have a holistic model; however,  today we are sharing a model that was created by Duke Integrative Medicine, called the Wheel of Health.  As you work toward health, begin to consider that there are many factors involved. So, let’s dive into the Wheel of Health a bit!

In the green, inner circle there is YOU and the components of SELF-CARE that create health.

In the innermost circle is mindful awareness of YOU.  Without awareness, we are not able to make changes in our lives for the better!  Awareness in the following areas will cause improved health and well-being:

• Mind-body connection – our mind has tremendous impact on our body. Study after study show this.  The thoughts you think, impact the biology of your body.  Begin noticing how this happens for you.

• Movement, Exercise & Rest – we are designed to move AND rest. Move often and regularly! This doesn’t have to be going to the gym or going for a run!  Find the movements that you love and that energize you. Find what is restful for you – you may find that what you think is restful, is not truly rejuvenating.

• Nutrition – eat a variety of whole foods!

• Personal & Professional Development – learning nourishes us!

• Physical Environment – what in your environment may be contributing to health or illness? Physical environment is a powerful trigger for habits that we are unaware of.  Substances in your environment may be toxic to the body.

• Relationships and communication – such a powerful one! We are at our healthiest when our relationships and communication are healthy.  We are designed to operate within a community.  How are your relationships and communication impacting your health?

• Spirituality – each of us is a spiritual being. Study after study shows that spiritual practices, including prayer, meditation, acceptance, and gratitude contribute to health and well-being.

The outermost circle is where professional care comes into play.  Do you notice that the larger portion of the wheel involves SELF care?  You have the power to create HEALTH.  Your healthcare providers support YOU in creating health, but YOU have the power.  Professional care may vary according to your choice of fully conventional prevention & intervention, or incorporation of complementary approaches such as:

• Massage

• Acupuncture

• Aromatherapy

• Music Therapy

• Hypnotherapy

• Mindfulness/Meditation

• Yoga

• And so much more.

How will your approach to health change when viewing it from a holistic perspective, from the Wheel of Health.  Like the wheel of your car, if one area is flat, it doesn’t function as well.  What area can you focus on to round out the wheel?

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