Jun/Jul 2022 Aspire Magazine FULL Issue | Page 17

17

As a certified wellness coach and lecturer , I ’ ve identified seven wellness concepts or areas that are the most popular or impactful in the modern wellness industry . Curiously , these seven concepts all have one thing in common : They were originally created , developed , used , taught , and shared by a deeply diverse group of people from around the world . In my experience , these seven are also the easiest to implement regardless of someone ’ s socioeconomic background or access to resources . Yes , people can spend thousands of dollars and lots of time pursuing each one , but none require expensive investments of time or money . Most are free , and all can be incorporated into anyone ’ s existing daily routine .

Here are the seven practices :

1 PLANTS THAT HELP US HEAL

The use of plants as traditional medicine is widespread in history , though cultural traditions vary and have different names . They include Ayurveda ( India ), traditional Chinese medicine ( China ), Kampo ( Japan ), shamanism ( South America ), and Western herbalism ( Europe and North America ). Every group of people around the world has benefited from the use of plants to address ailments and help the body heal . In today ’ s world , the use of botanicals and other plants as supplements has become a multibilliondollar industry , but I promise you , you don ’ t need a ton of money to use them .

2 GOING WITHIN

Meditation , mindfulness , visualization , and contemplative practices help us connect our physical and emotional sides . These practices don ’ t require any spiritual beliefs , and they aren ’ t meant to replace someone ’ s religion . They are like “ mental workouts ” that calm our bodies and our minds and instill peace . We can use them effectively to enrich our understanding of what is sacred and miraculous within .

3

YOGA AND OTHER FORMS OF MOVEMENT

Movement is an integral part of wellness . While there are a number of movementrelated practices , and all are helpful , I focus mostly on learning , using , and reclaiming yoga , as its popularity and benefits deserve special attention . In addition , yoga is the quintessential example of a popular wellness practice developed by people of color in ancient times that is now embraced by all regardless of age , health , or circumstance . 4

A PLANT-BASED DIET
Some wellness experts like to say , and with good reason , that improving our health is “ 80 percent about nutrition , 20 percent about everything else .” Just like how putting
WISDOM & SELF-GROWTH

17