Often the primary goals of therapy are considered response, remission and recovery. Response is known as “feeling better” and is usually the first step. When we talk about feeling better from a holistic perspective, it’s not a singular focus but rather improving mentally, physically and spiritually. These areas are all connected and together they play a big role in our overall well- being.

Holistic growth and wellness in the world of psychology focuses mental development such as cognitive skills that stimulate the brain and enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Within mental development is also the concept of emotional intelligence, a pillar of holistic growth us understanding and managing our emotions that can lead to better relationships with others and ourselves.

Another key concept to holistic wellness is that of physical development, incorporating movement, rest and nutrition can contribute substantially to our overall wellness. Within physical development is expanding our body awareness, understanding our body’s signals and needs through mindful meditation, stretching and posture work to enhance our physical development and overall wellness.

Finally, the spiritual development that speaks to finding meaning or purpose through exploring personal beliefs, values which contribute to our personal direction in addition to making a connection to the larger world through community engagement can support spiritual growth and wellness.

These aspects are also deeply interconnected and often growth in one area supports growth in another. For instance, movement can support improved mental health as exercise releases the feel-good endorphins that can boost one’s mood and brain functioning. Funny thing about a positive mental state, it can motivate us to engage in movement contributing further mental and physical wellness. And it isn’t strictly intense workouts that provide a positive effect, meditation, yoga and walking in nature all provide avenues to enhance spiritual awareness in turn reducing stress impacting our spiritual and mental growth. Lastly, the practice of mindfulness and meditation can provide mental clarity, reduce symptoms of anxiety and assist in emotional regulation. This spiritual practice can enhance mental wellness by providing a sense of dedication, contentment and fulfillment.

Holistic psychotherapy can address the various barriers to “feeling good.” Through meaningful therapeutic connection, we can uncover what challenges and what strengths are present for you to engage in holistic growth uncovering opportunities for development related to the mind, body and spirit. If you’re interested in this approach please reach out via email: Danielle.cocks@fancytherapy.ca or call the office at (226) 808-7291.

Thanks so much for being here.

Resources

Hannah Owens, L., & Kendra Cherry, Mse. (2024, December 12). Is holistic therapy right for you?. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/holistic- therapy-definition-types-techniques-and-efficacy-5196420

Phan, H. P., Ngu, B. H., & White, M. O. (2021). Introducing 'holistic psychology' for life qualities: A theoretical model for consideration. Heliyon, 7(1), e05843. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05843

Ribeiro, S., Pimentel, A. P., Fernandes, V. R., Deslandes, A. C., & Amarante, P. (2024). It is time for more holistic practices in Mental Health. PLOS Mental Health, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000028

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