Life, with its unpredictable ups and downs, can sometimes leave us feeling fragmented, as if we’re not quite ourselves. It can feel as if we’ve lost a part of our essence somewhere along the way. In these moments, it’s important to remember that it’s not about retrieving what’s lost, but about rediscovering what’s always been there. One way to do so is through holistic therapy.
A holistic therapist approaches healing from a unique perspective, emphasising the complete human being and not just the ailment. They don’t just treat your symptoms in isolation; instead, they examine the full spectrum of your existence – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual – and ascertain how these elements interact and influence your wellbeing.
They do this by employing a variety of therapeutic techniques such as breathwork, massage, sound therapy, mindfulness practices, equine therapy, or Reiki, all designed to stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities. But perhaps the most critical aspect of their role is to empower you and direct you toward self-healing. They educate and motivate you to take proactive steps towards your health, helping you cultivate a deeper understanding of how your body and mind can harmoniously coexist.
What is a holistic therapist and what do they do?
Holistic therapists understand the transformative power of energy balancing, hope and healing. They dedicate their lives to creating safe and open spaces because they believe in fostering an environment that allows individuals to openly express their vulnerabilities, fears, and aspirations without judgement.
This welcoming space is a sanctuary where individuals can confront their pain, explore their emotions, and commence the journey towards self-discovery and healing. Holistic therapists know that healing begins when individuals feel seen, heard, and understood. In this empathetic space, hope is reborn, resilience is nurtured, and individuals are gently guided back to their authentic selves.
The impact of holistic therapy extends far beyond the boundaries of traditional therapeutic methods. Holistic therapists view every struggle, every joy, every defeat and triumph as interconnected, each playing a critical role in shaping the individual’s overall sense of self.
They embrace the understanding that every person has within them the potential for growth, healing, and transformation – that beneath the surface, there is an innate wisdom that, when tapped, can guide one towards true health and happiness.
In their eyes, you are not a project to be fixed but a whole individual to be understood.
Who can benefit from holistic therapy?
Every single one of us.
From the entrepreneur, who is constantly grappling with the stress of running a business, to the college student wrestling with the anxieties of exams and future uncertainties. The single mother, carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders, trying to provide the best for her children, to the retiree, grappling with feelings of purposelessness that retirement often brings.
So whether you’re in the throes of a personal crisis, or just feeling a bit lost and disconnected, remember: It’s okay to seek help. Embracing holistic therapy might just be the step towards a more balanced, fulfilled life that you’ve been seeking.
Qualities to look for in a good holistic therapist
1. Observational
A great holistic therapist possesses a keen sense of observation. They are not just listening to the words you say, but they’re deciphering the unspoken narratives too. They pick up on subtle cues in your body language, the pauses between your words, and the emotions that flicker across your face. They observe and understand that your silence can be as telling as your speech, that your unconscious habits may hint at internal struggles.
These responses often speak volumes about the emotional state that the client may not directly express or even be aware of. Through this observational prowess, therapists can detect patterns, identify incongruences, and unearth root causes. This, in turn, gives them a broad yet intricate perspective, allowing them to approach the healing process from a position of deep insight and empathy.
2. Empathy
A truly empathetic therapist will dive deep into your personal history, values, beliefs, and unique circumstances that have shaped your experiences. They’ll strive to comprehend your perspective not just on an intellectual level but on a deeply emotional one as well.
They’re not there to feel sorry for you. In fact, they’ll stand with you. They’re feeling with you, acknowledging your struggles, and validating your feelings. The most exceptional holistic therapists are those who can step into your shoes, see the world through your eyes, and feel your pain and joy as if it were their own.
3. Active listener
Consider a scenario where a client is speaking about their stress levels. An active listener would carefully absorb every word, reflecting upon the emotion and meaning behind the spoken lines. They’d pick up on the hesitations, the changes in tone, and the unspoken undercurrents that speak volumes more than mere words.
In response to this, the holistic therapist might say, “It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed right now, is that correct?” This shows not just a passive receipt of information but an active engagement with the client’s narrative.
Similarly, if a client is struggling with decision-making, an active listener would not impose their opinions. Instead, they might say, “It seems you’re feeling stuck because you’re unsure of the decision to make. Do you want to put a pin on it?”
Here, the therapist empathises with the client’s situation, facilitates self-reflection, and respects the client’s autonomy to make their own decisions. This level of active listening fosters trust and encourages the client to open up more, improving the effectiveness of therapy sessions.
4. Non-judgmental
This doesn’t mean biting your tongue when you hear something you disagree with. It’s about stepping into a space where you move past your personal biases and preconceived notions.
Say, for example, a client might share that they find solace in rituals that might seem unconventional or even absurd to others – like talking to plants, finding peace in heavy metal music, or indulging in rich, sugary dessert. A non-judgmental therapist doesn’t brush this off as silly or unimportant.
Instead, they see it for what it truly is: a coping mechanism, a source of comfort, a unique part of that person’s journey. These examples may not fit within the traditional boundaries of “healthy” behaviour, but a non-judgemental therapist can see beyond the superficial. They would understand that sometimes, a piece of chocolate cake can do more for one’s emotional wellbeing than any amount of kale salads ever could.
Wellness isn’t strictly about following a rigid set of rules or about ticking boxes. It’s a deeply personal, multifaceted journey. The definition of “wellness” is as unique as the individual who is seeking it.
Reminder: Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s perfectly okay.
5. Effective communicator
You don’t want a therapist that spews out complex jargon or talks at a rapid pace.
You want to engage in genuine, meaningful conversations. If a client is having difficulty expressing what they’re feeling, a holistic therapist who has effective communication skills won’t rush you or fill the silence with their own assumptions.
They would use open-ended questions or reflective statements like, “It seems like you’re having a hard time putting your feelings into words. Would you like to explore that together?” This illustrates the therapist’s willingness to step into the client’s shoes, promoting a safe and supportive environment where the client feels comfortable sharing.
A good communicator also knows how to articulate complex information – like scientific evidence or healing techniques – in a way that’s understandable and relatable to the client.
6. Creates a healthy environment
A holistic therapist may create a healthy environment in several ways. They may utilise calming, warm lighting to soothe clients’ nerves, and ensure the room is free from distractions. The therapist might also offer herbal tea or water before and during each session.
At Highlands Centre for Healing, we focus on natural elements – like plants, animals, and nature – to create a serene ambience. You’ll be surrounded by majestic horses that actively participate in your healing process.
We don’t just listen. We hold space for you.
7. Believes in people
Believing in people isn’t a simplistic notion of accepting everything at face value.
This belief is rooted in the recognition of human potential, the capacity to evolve and adapt, to overcome and learn. It’s about seeing the sparks of possibility even when they’re hidden under the ashes of self-doubt or fear.
Your holistic therapist should hold a deep belief in the potential of people. They see beyond the surface, appreciating the inherent ability within each individual to grow, heal, and transform. This isn’t about naivety or blind optimism. Rather, it’s grounded in the understanding that with the right kind of support, people can surprise themselves in their capacity for change.
Having a holistic therapist who truly believes in you is crucial. Their belief acts as a mirror, reflecting back to you your inherent worth and potential, often at times when you may be struggling to see it yourself.
Forms of holistic therapy
1. Breathwork
This involves using specific breathing techniques to improve mental, physical, and spiritual health. Breathwork can range from simple exercises like deep breathing to more structured practices like yoga.
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2. Massage and other bodywork
This includes a wide range of techniques where the therapist manipulates the body’s muscles and soft tissues. Massage and bodywork are used to relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve circulation, leading to overall better health and relaxation.
3. Sound therapy
Instruments like singing bowls, gongs, or tuning forks are commonly used. It is known that certain frequencies positively affect our bodies and minds, helping to reduce stress, enhance wellbeing, and promote healing.
4. Mindfulness practices
These practices entail being aware of your thoughts and feelings without distraction or judgement. Techniques include meditation, mindful breathing, and body scans.
5. Equine therapy
Also known as horse therapy and equine psychotherapy, this involves interactions with horses to promote emotional growth and learning. It’s used for a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. At Eureka Horse Wisdom, we weave somatic therapy into our offering to help clients heal from traumas, childhood trauma, stress and emotional distress.
6. Reiki
This is a form of energy healing. Practitioners use a technique called palm healing or hands-on healing through which “universal energy” is transferred through the practitioner to the patient to encourage emotional, energetic and physical healing.
How holistic healing techniques can support you
Holistic therapies can support various aspects of your wellbeing in the following ways:
Physical health
- Improves bodily functions and alleviates physical symptoms.
- Enhances relaxation and reduces muscle tension.
- Promotes better sleep and boosts energy levels.
- May alleviate chronic pain and improve symptoms of certain physical conditions.
Emotional health
- Helps in processing and expressing emotions in a healthy way.
- Aids in stress reduction and managing emotional responses.
- Supports emotional healing from trauma or negative experiences.
- Enhances self-awareness and self-acceptance.
Mental health
- Offers coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
- Improves cognitive functions like focus and clarity.
- Reduces symptoms of stress and anxiety.
- Promotes a positive mindset and mental resilience.
Spiritual health
- Encourages a deeper connection with oneself.
- Helps in exploring and integrating spiritual beliefs and practices.
- Supports personal growth and existential understanding.
- May offer a sense of peace, purpose, and connectedness.
The mind-body-spirit connection lies at the heart of Highlands Centre for Healing
Holistic therapists matter because they acknowledge the inherent complexity of a human being’s existence. They recognise that every headache, every anxious thought, and every sleepless night is more than an isolated incident. It’s a piece of a much larger puzzle. They look at everything: your thought patterns, stress levels, relationships, and more – because they understand that these elements don’t exist in a vacuum.
At Highlands Centre for Healing, we don’t just slap a band-aid on your symptoms and call it a day. We’re committed to fostering your vital mind-body-spirit connection, a core philosophy in our holistic approach to wellness.
Our equine therapy offering provides a special opportunity to engage with horses in a way that supports emotional and psychological healing, helping you to develop deeper self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Meanwhile, our Reiki sessions offer a gentle yet profound energy healing experience. We also host wellness retreats which are designed to rejuvenate your spirit.
Whether you’re seeking to heal, grow, or find balance, Highlands Centre for Healing is your sanctuary for holistic wellness. Start your journey to holistic healing today.
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About the Highlands Centre for Healing
We offer holistic wellbeing for mind, body and soul bringing together a range of alternative, complementary wellbeing practices united by one single intention – to help you heal and find wellness. Join us for community or corporate group programs, workshops and retreats, or private equine therapy experiences.
