Definitions of Commonly Used Terms in Holistic Health and Wellness

 A

Affirmations

Positive, present-tense statements used to challenge and replace negative thought patterns. Commonly used in mindfulness, meditation, and energy healing to promote self-belief and emotional well-being.

Aromatherapy

A therapeutic practice using essential oils extracted from plants to enhance physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Oils may be diffused, applied topically, or added to baths.

B

Balance

A central holistic principle referring to the alignment and harmony of body, mind, and spirit. It also encompasses balancing energy systems such as the chakras.

Breathwork

Controlled breathing techniques used to calm the nervous system, release emotional blockages, and promote mental clarity and relaxation.

C

Chakras

Energy centres in the body, traditionally described in Eastern healing systems. Each chakra is associated with specific physical, emotional, and spiritual functions. Balancing chakras is a key aspect of many holistic practices.

Crystal Healing

The use of crystals and gemstones to influence energy fields, support emotional balance, and promote healing. Different crystals are believed to have specific properties.

E

Energy Healing

A broad term for therapies that aim to balance and clear the body’s subtle energy fields. Common forms include Reiki, crystal healing, and aura cleansing.

Essential Oils

Concentrated plant extracts used in aromatherapy for their therapeutic properties. Each oil has specific benefits, such as lavender for relaxation or peppermint for energy.

G

Grounding

A practice that helps individuals connect to the present moment and the earth’s energy. It can involve physical activities, visualisations, or working directly with nature.

H

Holistic Health

An approach to wellness that considers the whole person - body, mind, spirit, and emotions - rather than focusing solely on symptoms or isolated conditions.

Homeopathy

A complementary therapy based on the principle of "like cures like," using highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

M

Meditation

A mindfulness practice involving focused attention, awareness, or visualisation to promote relaxation, mental clarity, and spiritual connection.

Mindfulness

The practice of being fully present in the moment with non-judgmental awareness. Commonly used to reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being.

N

Naturopathy

A system of healing that emphasizes natural remedies, nutrition, and the body’s ability to heal itself. It often integrates diet, exercise, herbal medicine, and lifestyle advice.

R

Reiki

A Japanese energy healing technique where the practitioner channels universal life force energy to support the client’s physical and emotional healing.

S

Sound Healing

The use of sound frequencies, such as singing bowls, gongs, or vocal toning, to balance energy and promote relaxation and healing.

Somatic Practices

Body-based approaches that integrate movement, breath, and awareness to release tension and support emotional healing.

T

Therapeutic Touch

A healing practice where practitioners use their hands to detect and balance a client’s energy fields without necessarily touching the body.

V

Visualisation

A technique involving the creation of mental images to promote healing, relaxation, or the achievement of specific goals. Commonly used in meditation and guided imagery.

Closing Note:

This glossary is intended as an introduction to key holistic terms. Each practice may vary based on tradition, practitioner training, and individual belief systems. Holistic therapies are often used to complement, not replace, conventional medical care.