What the heck is Holistic Health and Holistic Health Counseling?

We get asked this question often and it tickles us that the word "holistic" in our title seems to bring up some pretty funny notions in some people. So to set the record straight, here's the real skinny (pun intended) on Holistic Health and Holistic Health Counseling.  :)

We've all heard it said many times by the so-called health experts... "Eat right and exercise"... but is that really all there is to it? And what does "eat right" really mean anyway? "Eat right" in this day and age seems to have taken on a nutritionism overtone. Nutritionism is a word coined by Michael Pollan in his brilliant book, In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto. Nutritionism is an emphasis on the individual nutrient parts of food ... Eat this because it's low-fat or that because it's high in fiber, and get your Vitamin C in this other product.

Our question to you is, has this approach served us best in regards to being healthy? When we look at where we are today with the rates of obesity, diabetes and heart disease escalating every year, the answer should be obvious.

It is understandable, though, that many people today consider the food we eat as the only aspect of nutrition and health. However, there are other elements in life that nourish us on a much deeper level. This nourishment is your foremost energy source; the physical food you eat -while it's incredibly important- actually comes second.  This deeper nourishment includes happy relationships, a fulfilling career, physical activity, a spiritual practice, or connection to nature and self-care.

As Holistic Health Counselors, instead of prescribing a particular diet, we get back to the basics of food and empower people through education, support and accountability.

Creating a true healthy lifestyle that becomes a part of you is our goal.  This approach is NOT based on willpower or deprivation. That approach never works. We offer a natural and individualized approach that provides the answers you've been seeking about what truly nourishes your body as a whole.  That's where the "holistic" part comes in. We support YOU, the WHOLE person, at all levels of nourishment. You could call it, whole-body nourishment. It's a level of support that you've never had before.

 Don't worry; you'll definitely get the nutritional dietary information as well.

We have been trained in close to 100 different dietary theories, both eastern and western.  We also continue to study and stay up-to-date on the latest information on nutrition.  Alicia's own personal battles with health and weight loss have given her first hand knowledge of many of these theories.  Jennifer's own health struggles have given her a unique insight that allows her to meet you where you are at, and guide you on your road to wellness. 

Our philosophy is that we are all bio-individuals and NO single diet or way of eating is right for everyone.

Your age, your lifestyle, your gender, your ancestry, and daily activity (to name a few) all will have an impact on which way of eating will best support you. Furthermore, the eating plan that works for you today may not serve you well next season, next year or five years from now, as things in your life change. For example, a woman that is pregnant or nursing will need to eat differently than she did before.

So, what is Holistic Health and Holistic Health Counseling?

It might be better defined by what its not. It's not about counting calories, fat grams, carb grams, fad diets or even bland diets. It's not about exasperating fitness programs that feel like an added burden. It's not about willpower, deprivation or guilt.

Yes, it's about much more than simply "eating right and exercising". Holistic Health takes the WHOLE person into consideration. In as much, Holistic Health Counseling supports a person in transitioning into a true, healthy, joyful lifestyle that is fun and one that best suites the person individually.

Feel free to check out our individual program pages (Alicia's Health Program, Jennifer's Health Program) to learn more about what we have to offer you, on your journey to optimal health.  Although both of us have been trained at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition we have had different life experiences and backgrounds that have helped shape our approach and the programs we offer.  As you interact with us, through our posts, you will get to see more of our viewpoints and areas of expertise.  We are here to answer any questions you might have, and welcome any email inquiries.