Embracing Holistic Wellness: Lessons from 2023, Goals for 2024

Looking Back on 2023

As we bid farewell to 2023, this gives each of us health care professionals, occupational therapists, and everyone alike a pivotal moment for reflection and renewal. The past year has brought opportunities to continue to shape the landscape of the occupational therapy (OT) profession and underscore the importance of a holistic and wellness approach to health care, currently referred to as integrative health. As we step into 2024, let us take a moment to look back and set meaningful goals and intentions for the coming year.

In the face of global health challenges, from the individual to the planet, it has become increasingly evident that holistic health is not just a buzzword but a necessary paradigm shift in our approach with client-centered care. The OT profession has a holistic approach in theory and the ability to emphasize a holistic model that focuses on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit within the profession’s guiding framework. Integrating various integrative health approaches allows us to address the root causes of barriers and promote overall well-being.

Looking back on 2023, with the growing Holistic OT Community, it’s clear that more occupational therapists are valuing a holistic and integrative health care approach. In 2024, let us continue to shine the light on how these approaches can enhance wellness, not only for the client, but also for the OT practitioner. By growing as a group together, we can create more awareness of the value of the holistic approach while simultaneously recognizing the uniqueness of each individual.

What are Your Intentions or Goals for 2024?

Setting intentions for the new year involves embracing what you have already accomplished in this area, such as professional development with continuing education, that you have taken or taught, and programs you have created. Consider what your next steps may be. What appeals to you? What will improve your life? What areas need attention?

Prioritizing self-care is paramount. In the hustle of our demanding profession, it’s easy to neglect our own well-being. As we set goals for 2024, let us pledge to carve out time for self-reflection, mindfulness, and activities that recharge our spirits. Many of the holistic and integrative health approaches we can provide clients can easily be utilized for your own health and wellness. By nurturing our own holistic health, we can better serve our clients and contribute to a more resilient and compassionate health care system.

Let us seize the lessons of 2023 and build on what has been created to forge a path toward more opportunities for holistic and integrative health in 2024. Through collaboration, education, innovation, and self-care, we can build a future where every person receives the comprehensive care they deserve along with the efficacy-based research of many integrative health approaches, and where health care professionals thrive in an environment that highly values their well-being.

Within the interconnection of tele-health and artificial intelligence, the human touch, heart, and presence are sorely needed. As we move forward, let us explore further integration of these holistic tools for whole-person care into our practice, ensuring accessibility and optimizing personalized outcomes for all.

Join Emmy Vadnais, OTR/L for the Holistic OT Group Coaching on December 12, 2023 where we will discuss your goals or intentions for 2024 and any topics related to OT and integrative health, wellness, and prevention. We will meet in January and the second Tuesday of each month, throughout the year. 

Do you want support with your holistic and integrative health business, practice, or program? Contact Emmy Vadnais, OTR/L to schedule an individual coaching session.