Opinion: Resurgence of holistic healing

By dismissing holistic healing entirely, we ignore the wisdom embedded in ancient practices

By Viiveck Verma

In an era dominated by pharmaceuticals and quick fixes, the resurgence of holistic healing may seem like a rebellion against modern medicine. Yet, this return to ancient practices is not a rejection of science but rather a recognition of its limits. Holistic healing, rooted in centuries-old traditions, offers something modern medicine may overlook — the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.

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Science Recognises
The renewed interest in holistic therapies is not surprising. As chronic illnesses and mental health disorders continue to rise, many people feel disillusioned with treatments that target symptoms rather than root causes. Conventional medicine excels at managing acute conditions, but it may fall short when addressing the complexities of chronic diseases, leaving patients searching for alternatives. Holistic practices like Ayurveda, acupuncture and herbal medicine have stepped in to fill this gap, emphasising prevention, balance and natural remedies. The scientific community has not ignored this shift.

Studies have validated the efficacy of several holistic methods. Acupuncture, once dismissed as pseudoscience, is now recognised by the World Health Organization for treating chronic pain and nausea. Meditation and mindfulness, practices rooted in Buddhist traditions, have been shown to reduce stress, improve focus and even alter brain structure. Herbal remedies, long sidelined as folk medicine, are now being rigorously studied for their therapeutic properties. Turmeric, for instance, is hailed for its anti-inflammatory effects, while ashwagandha is praised for reducing anxiety.

We must move beyond the false dichotomy of modern versus traditional medicine as healing, after all, is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour

Yet, scepticism persists, and not without reason. The holistic healing industry is rife with misinformation, dubious claims and unregulated products. The lack of standardisation poses risks, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between credible therapies and pseudoscientific gimmicks. Critics argue that the appeal of holistic healing lies more in marketing than in evidence. To some extent, this criticism is warranted. Holistic practices should not be exempt from scientific scrutiny. The challenge lies in separating legitimate therapies from the noise.

Making a Difference
What holistic healing does exceptionally well, however, is addressing lifestyle factors that contribute to illness. Practices like yoga and tai chi promote physical activity while reducing stress. Dietary recommendations rooted in traditional medicine emphasise whole foods and balance, principles echoed by modern nutritionists. These approaches encourage patients to take an active role in their health, fostering a sense of empowerment often absent in conventional medical settings.

Another aspect that sets holistic healing apart is its emphasis on emotional and spiritual well-being. While Western medicine tends to compartmentalise health, holistic practices view the body as an integrated system. Emotional distress, for instance, is not seen as separate from physical symptoms but as a contributing factor to illness. This perspective resonates with a growing body of research linking stress and inflammation to chronic diseases. It also explains why therapies like reiki and aromatherapy, which focus on relaxation and energy balance, continue to gain popularity despite limited empirical evidence.

The rise of holistic healing also reflects broader cultural shifts. As society grapples with burnout and information overload, many people are seeking ways to slow down and reconnect with themselves. The wellness industry, now worth billions, has capitalised on this trend, offering everything from crystal-infused water bottles to sound baths. While some of these practices may lack scientific backing, their popularity underscores a collective yearning for rituals and meaning — something modern medicine often neglects.

Real Potential
That said, the integration of holistic and conventional medicine is where the real potential lies. Terms like ‘integrative medicine’ and ‘functional medicine’ are gaining traction, emphasising a collaborative approach that combines the strengths of both systems. Hospitals and clinics are increasingly offering acupuncture, meditation programmes, and nutritional counselling alongside standard treatments. This shift represents a middle ground, where science and tradition coexist rather than compete. Holistic healing is not a panacea, nor should it be romanticised as such. It has its flaws, and rigorous testing must continue to ensure safety and efficacy. But dismissing it entirely ignores the wisdom embedded in ancient practices and the limitations of our current medical model.

We must move beyond the false dichotomy of modern versus traditional medicine. Healing, after all, is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. For some, relief may come from a prescription bottle. For others, it may be found on a yoga mat or in a bowl of turmeric-infused broth. The goal should not be to pit these approaches against each other but to weave them into a more comprehensive and compassionate framework for health.

Holistic healing is more than a trend, it is a reminder that wellness encompasses more than the absence of disease. It challenges us to look deeper, to treat not just the body but the whole person. In doing so, it redefines what it means to heal, not as a passive process but as an active, ongoing journey. And perhaps that is the greatest lesson these ancient practices can teach us in our modern lives.

(The author is founder and CEO, Upsurge Global, co-founder Global Carbon Warriors and Adjunct Professor – EThames College)