According to Websters dictionary, disease is “a condition of the living animal or plant body or of one of its parts that impairs normal functioning and is typically manifested by distinguishing signs and symptoms.”
The word disease comes from old French, then Middle English, meaning “lack of ease.” This term is very appropriate and is often used by complementary practices.
Is disease friend or enemy? It is neither.
When a person has diarrhea, a cold, etc., we think that he/she is sick, but in reality, what is happening? The body is in a process of detoxification; trying to eliminate those toxins that are damaging it, the body has innate wisdom. It is self-repairing.
That is to say, that the organism looks for the way to correct what is damaging it; therefore, it seeks to eliminate the harmful toxins that hinder its healthy development.
There are no formulas as there are no diseases. What there are, are sick people who develop a type of suffering for specific reasons of their body.
- Nutrition is a part of lifestyle. If the body is not given wholesome foods that provide sustenance to the body, it will be less able to function in an optimum way. Environmental pollution adds further stress to the body.
- Emotions play a huge part in wellness. Anger, sadness, hostility, guilt or other “negative” emotions can cause illness. For example, anger affects the liver; grief is more apt to affect the lungs. Guilt can shorten your life and affect your immune system.
Mental health can often be affected by carrying a burden of guilt. - Genetics can play a huge factor. If immediate family members are prone to heart disease, there is a good possibility a person may inherit this tendency.
However, one needs to be aware that family members may practice the same type of lifestyle which can contribute to illness or health. “It is said that a genetic disorder is like a loaded gun. It is your lifestyle that pulls the trigger.”* - Age obviously plays a role. As the body gets older, it is more prone to certain conditions.
- Staying active promotes health. A “couch potato” is more apt to suffer from aches and pains compared to a physically active person.
- Work is important for physical and mental health.
*Dr. Jeffrey, Bland PhD