The Power of Natural
and Holistic Practices

©2025 Victoria Bowmann PhD

Happiness and health are deeply intertwined—more than just a feel-good connection, science shows that cultivating joy through natural and holistic practices strengthens both the body and mind. A positive mental state can lower stress, boost immunity, and promote overall vitality.

How Happiness Heals

Happiness influences physical health by reducing cortisol—the stress hormone linked to inflammation and chronic disease—and encouraging the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These biological effects promote emotional balance, pain relief, and resilience.

Holistic health honors this mind-body connection by integrating practices like mindfulness, movement, nutrition, rest, and meaningful relationships—all of which contribute to long-term wellness.

The Power of Presence and Inner Peace

Mindfulness and meditation are proven tools for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Practices such as deep breathing, appreciation, and prayer calm the nervous system, improve sleep, and support emotional stability. These rituals help retrain the brain for peace and clarity.

Movement as Medicine

Physical activity naturally lifts mood and energizes the body. From nature walks and yoga to tai chi and dancing, movement improves circulation, reduces anxiety, and supports immune function. Time outdoors further enhances these benefits by increasing vitamin D and a sense of connection with nature.

Positive Relationships and Community

Perhaps one of the most powerful sources of happiness is connection. Cultivating strong, loving relationships are shown to reduce stress, boost immunity, and even extend life. Simple gestures like hugging, laughter, and shared gratitude foster emotional well-being and a sense of belonging—nourishing the heart as much as the body.

Rest, Recovery, and Radiance

Quality sleep is essential for both happiness and health. A relaxing nighttime routine—free from busy distractions—can restore energy and improve mood. Meditation, calming essential oils, peaceful music, and gratitude journaling before bed all support a more restful night. It’s particularly crucial to turn off electromagnetic frequencies emitted by devices like cell phones, computers, and electronic games, as they emit blue light that can disrupt our internal clock and certain glands responsible for promoting quality sleep.

Nutrition and the “Second Brain”

The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to its significant influence on mood and mental health. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for producing neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulates emotions and happiness. This has been the primary focus of my practice for almost 5 decades, including developing a method of re-establishing the microbiome easily and effectively. When the digestive system is balanced and thriving, individuals are more likely to experience mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall vitality.

Eating whole, nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants plays a crucial role in fostering happiness. Foods such as leafy greens, berries, vegetables, nuts, quality proteins, fats and fermented foods provide essential nutrients that support brain function and emotional well-being. One can enhance their mental state and energy levels by prioritizing their nutritional choices thus creating a foundation for long-term health and happiness.

Conclusion: Thriving Through Joy

Real health is not just about the absence of disease but about thriving in all aspects of life. When people prioritize happiness through natural means, they activate the body’s innate ability to heal, grow, and flourish. I encourage you to evaluate each aspect presented in this blog and make a conscious choice to align with well-being and unlock your full potential for a happy, healthy, and meaningful life.

To learn more about this, please visit MyRealHealth.com or

contact me at 800-710-2786.