Unit 9 project

Integral health is flourishing health not only of the body; it includes the mind and the spirit of the human. It is a transformation of the way we see things, instead of looking at health as only being about the biological systems we must look at the entire being. By opening our minds and our hearts to the possibilities of loving kindness, peace and wholeness, we can obtain flourishing health. As health and wellness professionals it is important for us to develop psychologically, spiritually and physically to ensure that we are encompassing the full spectrum of health and life. Unlike the conventional approach of health that focuses on the body, integral health focuses on a holistic approach that includes the mind and spirit along with the body. The final goal of integral health is human flourishing – a profound, hardy, and sustained health, happiness, and wholeness (Dacher, 2006).  As practitioners to best serve our clients we need to live our lives in the integral approach. It is not an expansion of any current paradigm, it is a true transformation of being, a new level of consciousness requiring us to take the next step. To share the experience we must live the experience. Personally I need to build on all areas to achieve my goals. I am far from having integral health.

In assessing my personal needs physically I need to change my eating habits. I would like to return to a more organic vegetarian way of eating. I would also like to get back to my regular workout schedule, of going to the gym 3 days a week. Psychologically I need to reduce my stress levels, multitasking isn’t a technique I want to master. I want to master control over my mind, being able to achieve a subtle mind. My spiritual assessment, I need to get back to the peaceful closeness of communing with my creator on a more consistent basis.

The goals I have set for myself physically get back to organic vegetarian eating, psychologically to reduce stress regular meditation and yoga; the yoga will also work towards improving my physical well being, and spiritually meditation that connects my energy with that of the universe.

To achieve my goals I have created a plan that includes waking up early enough every morning to start the day with spiritual mediation, and yoga. I have begun shopping at the local market that sells organic vegetables and reducing the amount of meat in my diet. I have also joined a local gym to get back to working out. And throughout the day I have begun taking my lunch break as a mental health break. By leaving the office for lunch I am able to take the time to practice deep breathing, stretch and let go of the stress of the day. This allows me to have a fresh perspective when I return. A happier, healthier, less stressed me makes a better work environment for everyone.

To track my progress, I have included telling my family about my plans. In sharing my plans with others it holds me accountable not only to myself but to them. I have also set scheduled times for achieving my goals; these indicators will allow me to track progress. Holding myself accountable, if the goals I set are not meet then who suffers, no one but me. Obtaining long term success in my goals will be a life long journey. Life is a journey and obtaining flourishing health, happiness, and wholeness are the rewards.