Have you come across the concept of “wellness”? Interestingly, this term holds distinct meanings in both the realm of alternative medicine and that of Western medicine.
In the alternative medicine sphere, wellness signifies proactive self-care aimed at averting illnesses. It involves embracing strategies that diminish the risks of conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and mental health disorders. Achieving wellness here entails altering dietary habits, increasing physical activity, and even focusing on the balance of our energy fields.
Conversely, Western medicine often defers action until diseases manifest, at which point it undertakes heroic efforts to “fight the disease.” In the Western medical context, wellness translates to the “early detection” of diseases. This perspective is reflected in facilities labeled as “Wellness Centers,” where spaces are devoted to mammogram screenings, MRI scans, and other diagnostic tools to identify existing ailments.
Is this concept of wellness truly holistic? To me, it seems lacking. Authentic wellness encompasses the practice of maintaining good health, steering clear of diseases in the first place. Receiving a diagnosis like “You have cancer” deals a profound emotional blow, significantly impacting one’s psyche and life. The question arises: why endure such an ordeal if it can be prevented? Why not channel all efforts into evading that dreadful juncture?
Western medicine appears to treat the pre-diagnosis phase of life as a random assortment of uncertainties. The prevailing sentiment suggests that diseases are beyond our control – either you contract them or you don’t. It is as if these afflictions are capricious forces that strike without rhyme or reason, leaving individuals to grapple with the consequences.
Within the Western medical paradigm, genetics plays a pivotal role. Should one develop cancer, it’s often attributed to their genetic makeup. This implies that if a forebear experienced cancer, it’s inevitable for subsequent generations to encounter it as well.
However, Western medicine struggles to account for the instances where siblings inherit or evade diseases ostensibly traced through family lines. Consider the scenario where one sister succumbs to cancer at a young age due to genetic predisposition, while another sister defies the odds and lives to celebrate her centenary without encountering the same ailment.
From my standpoint, I’m committed to nurturing my well-being to the best of my ability, eschewing the imprudent waiting game for disease. True wellness goes beyond mere detection and response; it encompasses a proactive lifestyle that empowers individuals to foster their health. In the face of uncertainty, I choose to prioritize prevention, seeking a balanced and vibrant life.