The word vital, or manifesting life, is taken from the Latin word vita, meaning life or Vitalis, of or belonging to life.
Vital force, life force, or vitalism is a defining, root element of the practice of Naturopathy dating back to Benedict Lust in the early 1900s and earlier as the practice of Nature cure. “Therapeutic medical treatment which is based on nature or on self-power; a treatment that supports vitality and leads to regeneration and health, is the method of nature cure”. The vitalistic philosophy recognizes that there is more to living organisms than biological processes alone. Naturopathic physicians are trained in the anatomical, physiological, and biological sciences and they also get trained in treatment modalities that recognize the vital force as inclusive to healing. The vitalist principle understands that symptoms of a disease are often nature's efforts to restore the body to a state of health.
Vis medicatrix naturae (the body's natural ability to heal itself) is a tenet of Naturopathy that recognizes this inborn ability to cure. The better physical condition one is in, the stronger the vitality, and the better chance of recovery.
Naturopathic medical treatment investigates the total picture of a person's health, (Tolle totum: treat the whole person). We aim to see the areas that need improvement and recommend treatment that supports moving towards a healthy vital force of life and more robust physical health. This does not mean substituting a drug with an herb or nutraceutical which is known as "green pharmacy!". Nutrition, Botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, physical therapy and manipulation, nutraceuticals, acupuncture, counseling, and Homeopathy are modalities used to strengthen the vital force.
There are simple ways to increase vitality in your life
Fresh air, staying hydrated by drinking fresh water, eating seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, and moving the physical body. A simple walk can vitalize the system bringing oxygen into the lungs, strengthening the muscles, and relieving stress. We can begin to look into our daily living habits and take inventory of those things that seem to rob us of our energy or vitality and change those behaviors that are contributors to ill health or dis-ease. Taking time to rest, sleep and rejuvenate are positive contributors to good health and vitality, and Naturopathic medicine is all about Preventare (preventative medicine).
Finally, a relationship with your Naturopathic medical provider will be the first vital step toward manifesting a healthy life and introducing simple preventative measures to your daily activities since the principal Docere explains doctor as a teacher or guide in Naturopathic Medicine.
You can take your first step towards health by asking: How can I live a more vital life?
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