Natural health focuses on building, maintaining and restoring health and wellness through prevention and a healthy lifestyle. Natural therapies are most often categorized as complementary or alternative medicine, and are under the control of the individual, focusing on the whole person—body, mind and spirit.
Natural health focuses on building, maintaining and restoring health and wellness through prevention and a healthy lifestyle. Natural therapies are most often categorized as complementary or alternative medicine, and are under the control of the individual, focusing on the whole person—body, mind and spirit.
Natural health is becoming more mainstream and encompasses acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic care, nutritional counseling, air and water purification, organic foods and farming, herbs, massage therapy, meditation, reflexology, reiki, feng shui, tai chi and yoga.
A natural health practitioner may ask questions that delve into aspects of a patient’s life beyond mere physical symptoms. They often look at patients’ lifestyles, diets, exercise habits, energy levels, emotional states and other categories to get the complete picture of overall health. In addition, some natural therapies contain a spiritual component which can be beneficial for health and healing.
Whereas conventional western medicine focuses on the body and treatment of symptoms (usually through the use of pharmaceutical drugs), natural health practices take into account the whole person—body, mind and spirit—and focus on balancing these elements in treating patients. Natural health practitioners prefer to eliminate symptoms by helping the body heal itself, thus restoring a holistic balance.
Collaboration and integration of natural health with conventional medicine continues to grow. More and more, practitioners trained in the natural healing arts are working with physicians, clinics and wellness centers. Natural health is an area to watch as more healing modalities emerge and become an integral part of patients’ lives.
Is it Really “Natural?”
The interesting thing about the use of the word ‘natural,’ is that it has a broad definition and is not regulated. You have to be a detective when it comes to the use of this word,” explains Kandy Bernal of Ulew Natural Products. “Anyone can claim to have a product or service that is natural, so you need to look closely at what is being promoted. Does the product contain chemical or synthetic ingredients, artificial colors, fragrances or preservatives? If so, you might consider choosing a natural alternative.” TPW
