The Holistic Label

When we think of something in holistic terms, we often associate a feeling of well-roundedness or general well-being. Often, these associations are considered in relation to health matters and alternative therapies. These associations are clear, well defined, and generally understood by most. What may not be as clear however, for many people, are the holistic associations within other knowledge bases such as Educational theories/models, learning methods, and parental strategies. Once you consider what holistic means you can understand how it can extend outward into various directions to encompass a wide range of subject matters. 

The word “holistic” implies working with whole systems, rather than individual parts, to form greater understandings and a more complete consideration of each interdependent element of a larger whole. Therefore, anytime an area of study or subject matter is preceded in terminology by the word “holistic” it suggests a more rounded and fully encompassing approach to that subject. The holistic ideal stems from the philosophical concept of “holism” which says that the interconnected parts of any whole cannot be understood or even exist independently / separately of one another. 

So when we are presented with common matters in life that are accompanied by the holistic label, we are actually being invited to think about a common matter with new understandings and ideas that encompass a much wider spectrum of relatedness than perhaps had ever previously been taken into account. We are being asked to consider any connections to the matter that may have previously been ignored or brushed aside as not important to the overall function or solution of a matter. We are being encouraged to engage ourselves fully with a matter and not just with a portion of it. And, we are being asked to challenge old ways of thinking which have produced wrong/ineffective actions and poor results.

{This is the ongoing focus of Holistic Think! Blog and Facebook page. This is where I share links of interest, papers and books of interest, and any other relevant materials that I may find of significant value to the holistic perspective. As I am so inclined, I share my own thoughts about various topics of interest or things which I consider holistically relevant. The topics that I focus on here are so interwoven into the major concentrations of my life that I find myself often in need of some relaxed atmosphere or outlet through which to express my thoughts about them. If I make some worthwhile connections in the process or in some way inspire someone else to seek out the holistic approach in their own life, then I will be all the more grateful for that which has sought expression through me.}