5 Holistic Health
alternative modalities to support well-being
BY CELESTIA FRENCH Both conventional modern medicine and alternative or supportive modalities can be effective tools to achieve wellness goals. Since personal health needs are unique to every person, it is wonderful to have a panacea of therapeutic modalities to choose from to take a customized approach to health.
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ACUPUNCTURE is shown
to improve the body’s functions and promote the natural self-healing process by stimulating specific anatomic sites commonly referred to as “acupuncture points.” The most common method used to stimulate these points is by inserting fine, sterile needles into the skin. However, other stimulation techniques such as manual massage and heat therapy are often used to enhance the treatment. Modern research documents acupuncture as an effective tool to relieve pain, improve digestive function and sleep.
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CHIROPRACTIC CARE
handles the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular
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F O U R
C O R N E R S
H E A L T H Y
L I V I N G
disorders by focusing on the intimate relationship between the nervous system and spine. Chiropractors offer treatment through manual adjustments or manipulation of the spine to reduce pain and improve a patient’s overall functionality. It can help restore the structural integrity of the spine, which is then thought to reduce pressure on the sensitive neurological tissues, consequently improving health and function. Chiropractors treat certain types of neck and back pain, sports and car accident injuries, headaches, repetitive strains and arthritic pain.
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OSTEOPATHY
is a noninvasive, drug-free form of “manual medicine” which aims to treat the entire person, not just the symptom or affected part. An osteopathic physician focuses on the joints, muscles and spine, and carries out both the assessment and the treatment with their hands. Treatment aims to positively affect the body’s nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems, and is commonly used as a supplementary therapy to improve arthritis, back pain, postural problems, neuralgia, headaches and digestive issues.
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MASSAGE THERAPY is
becoming widely accepted as a complementary or integrative form of medicine that is frequently offered alongside more traditional treatments for a wide range of medical conditions. Massage therapists are trained medical professionals who specialize in the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body such as
the skin, muscle, connective tissue, tendons and ligaments, using varying movements and degrees of pressure. Studies show it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain and muscle tension, but can be used to support a variety of health-related purposes, including rehabilitation of various injuries and decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
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WELLNESS COACHING
is a field wherein a coach helps clients assess current physical and emotional states and wellness goals, then co-creates a plan of action. They help clients make positive and lasting changes by guiding them through the process of creating a vision for their health, developing healthy habits and encouraging them every step of the way. They can be a trusted accountability partner that helps adjust a wellness plan as a client’s goals evolve or need recalibration over time. Working with a wellness coach can be helpful when setting goals around improving nutrition and exercise goals, mental and emotional health, as well as lifestyle and behavioral changes. Exploring alternative modalities can be an empowering way to embrace a healthier lifestyle. While each of us must take responsibility for our health, there are practitioners who can help us make the lasting changes necessary to live our most vibrant and healthful lives. l Celestia French is a holistic wellness and beauty consultant specializing in vitality optimization. She is a certified yoga therapist and wellness coach, lifestyle model and stylist. For more, visit her online www.labellauna.com.
