Dr. Nicola Finley, integrative physician at Canyon Ranch - Arizona, shares the power of self-care through daily practices and restorative retreats.
In the field of integrative medicine, how does physical health impact other areas of our well-being?
It’s a holistic view that considers all factors, including one’s medical conditions, lifestyle, and sleep, as well as spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Sometimes, a physical health condition could be a manifestation of another component of wellness that is not being fully addressed.
What are some daily practices that people can really benefit from?
There are so many beneficial self-care practices like exercising, meditation, spending time with friends and family, taking time to rest, engaging in spiritual practice, having a hobby, or playing with a pet. Self-care practices can change and evolve over time; it’s about what brings you joy.
What are some topics you explore at Canyon Ranch that guests may not get with their own physicians?
A rarely discussed topic that I explore within a medical consultation is sexual wellness, which is an important component of overall well-being. Another is spirituality, as an aspect of preventative medicine in terms of values, sense of purpose, and connection to others and one’s self.
What do you hope guests take away from their experience?
Many of our guests try new experiences that they wouldn’t have explored otherwise, and leave Canyon Ranch with a long list of items they want to institute when they go home. In support of long-term well-being, I recommend they make small changes over time as well as being gentle on themselves if they don’t achieve all of their wellness goals initially.
Ready to make self-care your priority? Visit our website and enter OFFER H266 for wellness retreats and vacations.
Photo: Canyon Ranch - Arizona