A holistic approach to healthcare encompasses not only the physical component, but the spiritual, emotional, environmental and mental aspects as well.  It is a wellness approach to health.  Keeping the body in alignment with all its parts and the world around it,- rather than wait until a disease occurs and then treat it. There is no scientific evidence that holistic practice can cure cancer absent other standard medical interventions.  However, professionals recognize that the healthy lifestyle promoted by a holistic lifestyle goes far in the prevention of disease.

Proper nutrition is vital to the welfare of the body.  Peace is vital to the welfare of emotional wellbeing.  Connection is vital to the spirit.  A healthy environment is vital to existence.  It takes a well balanced combination of all these elements to support a totally healthy being.  The American Holistic Association states, "There is no published evidence that alternative practitioners are more effective than conventional physicians in persuading their patients to improve their lifestyle. Nor have any vitalistic approaches been proven effective or cost-effective against any disease." But they further concur that maintaining a healthy lifestyle will improve a person’s vitality and energy.

Yoga, Reiki, Buddhist Meditation, Intuitive Breathing, and Aromatherapy all are geared towards peace and connection with one’s inner self.   Detoxifying diets, supplements, organic foods, nutritional bio-stress analysis, hormonal testing, teas, herbs, vitamins, and juices are all holistic means to improve your nutrition, and give the physical body what it needs to functional optimally.  Massages, Acupuncture, Chelation Therapy, Rolphing and Trigger Point therapy make the body feel good. 

Healthy lifestyles are what holistic practitioners everywhere promote.  While their individual practices may differ, the intended outcome of their practices is the same – wellness.