body, mind, spirit, and emotions. The goal is to achieve maximum well-being, where everything is functioning the very best that is possible.
Q: How do holistic health and conventional medicine differ?
A holistic practitioner does not prescribe medicine or treat acute illnesses. Holistic health is not aimed at just a temporary relief for symptoms.
Instead a holistic practitioner will use various forms of health care, from conventional medication to alternative therapies, to uncover the origins of health issues. For example if a
patient is suffering from migraines, a holistic practitioner could recommend a medication or herbal remedy to alleviate the immediate pain. Then they'd take a deeper look into the sleeping
habits, nutrition, stress levels, etc. of the patient. The goal being to identify the root cause and make the necessary lifestyle changes to prevent re-occurring migraines.
Holistic health places great emphasis on the emotional health of an individual as well. Emotions are powerful and play an extremely important role in our well-being.
Q: What certifications are required to practice as an Holistic Health Coach?
Holistic Health Coaching is relatively new to the playing field. At present, there is no one organization reinforcing specific class requirements, training hours, nor is a license required to practice. Because of this it is important to do your research before beginning to work with an holistic health coach or before enrolling in a certification course yourself.
I received my certification from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) the world’s largest health coaching program. Their in-depth curriculum, course structure, and hands on approach is what attracted me to the program. IIN offers a 6 month and a 1 year training option. For me, the 1 year option was the best choice as it allowed me to fully digest the material and have time to begin working with clients after 6 months of education. Since completing the program in November of 2018, I am certified to practice as an Integrative Nutrition (Holistic) Health Coach. Like I mentioned above, an official certification is not required to practice health coaching but I can't imagine setting out to transform people's lives without the backing of an education. Especially one as rigorous as IIN's program.
This badge designates that its holder has graduated from Integrative Nutrition's Health Coach Training Program. They have demonstrated an ability to understand and utilize a wide range of dietary and nutrition theories, as well as develop business and coaching skills to practice in a variety of settings. They have been trained to educate and guide clients to make behavioral changes resulting in improved nutrition, dietary habits, and physical ability and overall greater health and wellness.
And after researching quite a few I chose the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Their 6 month and 1 year health coach training program offer a well-rounded approach to holistic health. In addition, their program provides intensive coaching & business development. Plus, the cost is one of the more reasonable options in comparison to other reputable institutions of similar caliber.
Working as an holistic health coach allows me to share my passion to benefit the well-being of others. I love learning and in the health field there are always new studies being published and discoveries being made. Which means my work is constantly changing to reflect the most accurate understandings. And last but certainly not least, I can coach from anywhere! Thanks to video conferencing and international cell plans, I can meet with my clients from most anywhere in the world. Thank goodness for that because I have a serious travel bug.
Email: shefeelzgoodinfo@gmail.com