Holistic Health Vocabulary

A natural substance, usually from a plant, that is believed to help the body manage stress and maintain balance

She added ashwagandha, a popular adaptogen, to her morning smoothie to help her body cope with daily stress.

A way of eating that includes the right amounts of different types of food, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, to keep the body healthy

The doctor told him that following a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and lean protein would help him feel more energetic.

A set of breathing exercises and techniques used to improve mental, physical, or emotional health

My therapist recommended breathwork to help me manage anxiety during stressful situations.

A process of removing harmful or unwanted substances from your body, often through a special diet or medical treatment

After the holidays, she decided to do a short detox by drinking more water and avoiding processed foods.

A relaxation technique in which a person is led by a voice or recording to imagine peaceful scenes or positive experiences to reduce stress or pain

The nurse used guided imagery to help the patient relax before surgery by asking her to picture a calm beach.

The overall condition and proper functioning of the digestive system, including the stomach and intestines, which affects general health and immunity

Eating fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi can support gut health by increasing the good bacteria in your digestive system.

A natural treatment for illness or health problems that uses plants or plant extracts

My grandmother always used a ginger and honey herbal remedy to soothe a sore throat.

In traditional Chinese medicine, an invisible channel or pathway in the body through which energy is believed to flow

The acupuncturist placed needles along the meridian in my arm to help reduce pain.

The relationship between a person's thoughts, emotions, and mental state and their physical health and wellbeing

Yoga is a great way to strengthen the mind-body connection because it requires you to focus on both movement and breathing.

The practice of paying full attention to the present moment, including your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, without judgment

She practices mindfulness every morning by sitting quietly and focusing on her breathing for ten minutes.

A traditional Chinese therapy in which dried plant material called moxa is burned near or on the skin to warm the area and stimulate healing

The traditional medicine practitioner used moxibustion on my knee to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.

A system of healthcare that uses natural methods such as diet, exercise, and herbal medicine to prevent and treat illness without drugs or surgery

She visited a naturopathy clinic where the doctor suggested dietary changes and herbal supplements instead of medication.

Describing food that contains a large amount of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial substances relative to its number of calories

Spinach and blueberries are nutrient-dense foods that provide many health benefits without a lot of calories.

In Chinese medicine and philosophy, the natural energy or life force that is believed to flow through the body and keep a person healthy

The tai chi instructor explained that practicing slowly helps improve the flow of qi through your body.

A type of therapy in which pressure is applied to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, which are believed to be connected to other parts of the body

The therapist used reflexology on my feet, and it helped relieve the tension I had been feeling in my shoulders.

The practice of taking actions to maintain or improve your own physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing

She made self-care a priority by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and spending time with friends who make her happy.

A type of therapy that focuses on the connection between the mind and body, using physical awareness and movement to help heal emotional or psychological problems

After experiencing trauma, he found that somatic therapy helped him release tension he had been holding in his body for years.

A form of Chinese therapeutic massage that uses pressing, rubbing, and kneading techniques to improve health and relieve pain

After my back injury, my doctor suggested trying tui na as part of my recovery plan.

The state of being strong, active, and full of energy and enthusiasm for life

Regular exercise, good nutrition, and enough rest are all important for maintaining vitality as you get older.

Foods that are natural and have not been heavily processed or had artificial ingredients added to them

The nutritionist advised her patients to eat more whole foods like vegetables, fruits, and legumes instead of packaged snacks.