Integrative health is a comprehensive, holistic approach to healthcare and wellbeing, which is becoming more mainstream as allopathic physicians embrace healing-oriented medicine that takes in account the whole person, including all aspects of their lifestyle. The Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine is “leading the transformation by training a new generation of health professionals and by empowering individuals and communities to optimize health and wellbeing through evidence-based, sustainable, integrative approaches.”
Nearly ten years ago, I had a life-changing experience where I witnessed – firsthand – the benefits of an integrative path.
“Yvette, your biopsy came back positive; you have a rare cancer. This type of cancer is aggressive, spreads quickly and the tumor is resting on top of a blood vessel. We need to get you into surgery as soon as possible.” As I sat there in the doctor's office, I went numb. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I was only forty-one years old. How could this be happening to me? I was scared, but something inside me told me I would beat this. With that, my journey of self-healing and integrative health began.
I was in surgery within a matter of days and on a regimen of chemotherapy, radiation and a medication. I became weak and lost all my hair but the care I got from my medical team was exceptional. All the doctors worked cohesively, keeping my best interest in focus. However, I wanted more than just what medicine could do for me and to heal the health of my spirit, mind and body, too.
I began practicing deep meditation daily, visualizing a white light surrounding me, healing every part of my being. I meditated on my body being well on a deep cellular level. Additionally, I began seeing an acupuncturist who alongside acupuncture treated me with massage, craniosacral therapy, energy work and guided meditations. Alongside healing supplements and a healthy diet, I chose to find a life coach who helped me work through emotions I had been storing. Over the next few years, I learned how to live my life at ease, no longer letting stress take over. I became thankful for the smallest things in life and became clear on my purpose.
My hope is you will never have to experience what I went through; however, you can start taking care of your health by facilitating an integrative approach centered on healing and balancing the mind, body and spirit.Had I not been diagnosed; I may have never learned how to elevate my health to this level. For this, I am forever grateful.
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