In this article, we answer:
- What is holistic health?
- What is holistic medicine?
- Where do I find natural therapies?
What is holistic health?
Holistic health is the ancient idea that the mind, body, soul and environment are connected to our physical health and wellbeing.
The key difference between Western medicine and the holistic approach, is that Western medicine focuses on intervention, while the latter looks at support by balancing physical health with emotional and environmental impacts.
“Wellbeing is made up of physical health, emotional nurture, mental stimulation, focus, clarity and spiritual nourishment. Therefore, in order to feel at our very best, we need a complete approach that meets our needs in each of these areas.” Nicole Schaerer (Ivy College, November 2015).
Holistic health can be traced back through history in India, Rome, Greece and China with records dating from as early as the 6th century B.C. Today, you may hear holistic health care professionals (like holistic dentists) be referred to as integrated health practitioners or by one of a number of natural therapy titles.
What are natural therapies?
There are numerous types of natural therapies, including acupuncture, which may be used in holistic treatment.
Naturopathy is the general term used to describe natural therapies. Holistic health practitioners will often use natural therapies as part of a treatment plan to balance all elements of the mind, body and soul.
On 1 April 2019, the Australian Government removed 16 natural therapies from the list of complying health insurance extras/combined policies. These therapies are:
- Alexander Technique.
- Aromatherapy.
- Bowen Therapy.
- Western Herbalism.
- Homeopathy.
- Kinesiology.
- Naturopathy.
- Pilates.
- Reflexology.
- Buteyko.
- Felenkrais.
- Iridology.
- Yoga.
- Rolfing.
- Shiatsu.
- Tai Chi.
Therapies such as remedial massage, Chinese Medicine and acupuncture were not removed.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and should not replace advice from a medical professional. Localsearch, nor the author, are responsible for any misuse of this information.
Where can you find natural therapy providers? On Localsearch, of course!
Sources:
Feature photo by Simon Rae on Unsplash.
A History of Holistic Health, naturalhealers.com.au.
Removal of 16 Natural Therapies from Private Health Insurance, Australian Unity Limited, 2019.
More from Sarah 
