Balancing Acts: A Holistic View of Staying HealthyIt can be hard growing up gay. Not only are you faced with all the pressures of school, work, and maintaining friendships, but also you are learning to define your sexuality or gender identity as well. No matter who you are, what your age, or where you live, this can be stressful. Digesting and processing all these feelings can be overwhelming, too; but fortunately, many methods are available to help you achieve balance in your life, while readying yourself – mentally, physically, and spiritually – for the future. Over the last thirty years, America has been caught up in a holistic revolution. Theories about connections between the mind, body, and spirit are making their way into the mainstream. Alternatives to conventional, western medicine are more common. And, doctors sometimes recommend herbal remedies, acupuncture, and yoga in addition to prescriptions, surgery, and physical or other therapy. For many, holistic methods offer practices that will be useful throughout life and that offer lifelong benefits. Turning towards practices such as meditation and yoga can have a huge impact on your life, such as offering a sense of calm, opportunities to reflect on life, a means of escaping stress, and even improved physical and mental well-being. Although not every practice mentioned here will be a good match for your lifestyle, you may find some (or all) of these helpful: |