Exercise as part of a holistic approach to health

Holistic health care is a phrase that seems to be forever bandied around in alternative medicine articles and in the media.  But what does it actually mean?  A good online definition from wordnetweb is "holistic medicine treats the mind as well as the body". 

With that in mind, we can confidently say that exercise is an essential factor contributing to the process of an individual’s overall health.  Exercise benefits not only our physical bodies but our mental and emotional wellbeing.  

After intense exercise such as running or a Thai boxing class it’s typical to feel a sense of euphoria afterwards and often - if we’re not gasping for air - during the workout.  Our bodies are flooded with oxygen, and our muscles are being worked to their limits.  Exercise also improves mental clarity.  Many people say that with a regular exercise routine they feel focused and energized with increased levels of concentration.  Exercise also works on our emotions in that it provides a healthy outlet for stress and negative emotions such as anger and sadness.  A regular exercise routine can enhance our moods and increase our sense of achievement and confidence.  Evidence shows that exercise reduces the risk of depression and cognitive decline. 

There are certain types of exercises that help develop your body, mind and spirit to bring about a sense of balance and harmony. Activities such as Yoga, Pilates, qi-gong, tai-chi and other activities with Eastern origins are examples of holistic type exercises that bring about an awareness of the body and mind and provide balance to an individual.  Particular types of holistic exercises such as Pilates, Yoga or dynamic stretching can strengthen and buffer your body for various types of intense sporting activities like Rugby, Swimming or Tennis. 

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