Mayo Clinic Guide to Holistic Health: Unlock your body's natural healing powers

by Brent A. Bauer M.D.

Genres: Health

256 pages, Hardcover

Published October 15, 2024

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Mayo Clinic Guide to Holistic Health was a mixed bag for me. On one hand, I appreciated learning new things and picked up some helpful tips about integrating holistic practices into daily life. It covers a wide range of topics and does a decent job introducing concepts like mindfulness, nutrition, and natural remedies.

On the flip side, a lot of the writing felt repetitive and overly formal, almost like it was written by AI. Certain chapters leaned too heavily on the word “moreover” (seriously, it showed up way too often), which made the text feel robotic and less engaging. It could have been more conversational and approachable, especially for a topic like holistic health.

Overall, it’s worth skimming for the useful information, but don’t expect it to be a page-turner.

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The latest (2024) in the Mayo Clinic’s series of at-home guides to health care, Holistic Health describes 33 alternative healthcare options, from acupuncture to homeopathy, to qigong, to saunas, to supplements, to psychedelics, to music therapy, virtual reality, and yoga. The author gives an overview, cites research or lack thereof, pros and cons, and how the Mayo Clinic incorporates each (or not) into its practices. Topics are presented in a succinct and organized, if somewhat dry and repetitive, manner. Basics such as good sleep, exercise, and stress reduction are discussed, as well as how to be well when dealing with illness or injury.

Though I know quite a bit about holistic health already, which my hometown of Santa Cruz is known for, I added quite a few interesting nuggets to my knowledge. Saunas actually work to sweat out toxins such as heavy metals, as well as lowering risk of respiratory disorders such as pneumonia, asthma, and the common cold. The spinal manipulation section, which addresses osteopathy and chiropractic, inspired me to change my PCP from an MD to a more holistic DO (doctor of osteopathy).

A good collection of basic information, suitable for someone considering various treatments beyond the usual doctor’s care. It’s not an in-depth guide, so the patient will need to look beyond it to learn more about their chosen alternative therapy.

[Debora J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as a gift, as I am always preferring more natural remedies and healing. It contains a number of alternative approaches to health, listing the pros and cons of each and how they can be incorporated into your life. I found the information helpful, bookmarking dozens of portions for future reference. I already do a couple of the methods referenced in the book and plan to incorporate one or two more this year. I believe if you want to feel healthier and more able to enjoy your life, you can get something out of this book.

[Karen Lest · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book delivers exactly what it promises: a guide to holistic health. I appreciate the clarity it brings to defining terms and methods. I found it thought-provoking and refreshing. This author is not trying to sell you on a health fad. Just trying to get you to self define health and offer supporting options.

[Christine B · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good introduction to and description of some holistic therapies (e.g. acupuncture, qigong, saunas, etc.)

[Nancy K · Rating 3 out of 5]

Skim worthy.