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Holistic recovery solutions for long-term wellbeing with WholyMe
Written byWholyMe
Reviewed byCeline Ivari
Is it possible to ‘tune in’ better to your body? And how can this help with aches and pains? Discover ideas from a doctor specialising in functional medicine
Summary
1What is holistic pain management?
If these terms are new to you, then here’s a quick overview. ‘Holistic’ means looking at treating the person as an individual...
2What about managing aches and pains?
There’s a phenomenon called hormesis,” says Dr Hyman, “which [essentially] means a stress that doesn't kill you makes you stronger...
3How can we keep up good habits?
“I always say if you want to change your habits, make them easy and actionable and automatic,” Dr Hyman says. “I always make...
Modern life pushes us to move fast, but what if the key to long-term well-being lies in slowing down and truly listening to our bodies? WholyMe, a brand dedicated to natural recovery solutions, champions a holistic approach – one that nurtures the body rather than merely masking discomfort. This philosophy aligns closely with that of Dr Mark Hyman, a leading voice in functional medicine, who advocates for proactive, natural recovery methods.
In a recent conversation between WholyMe’s Founder Celine Ivari and Dr Hyman, they explored the importance of listening to the body and embracing holistic solutions for long-term well-being.
The views expressed here are those of WholyMe and Dr Mark Hyman, so let’s find out what they had to say...
Listening to your body: the first step in recovery
For Dr Hyman, the foundation of well-being starts with self-awareness.
“Most of us don’t stop and tune in or check in and listen,” he explains. “I was trained that if someone has pain, you give them an anti-inflammatory drug. But we didn’t really learn much about how to take care of pain in a more natural way.”
“One of the things that people don’t recognise is the importance of post-exercise recovery”
Instead of immediately turning to quick fixes, small, consistent recovery rituals may have a lasting impact. Whether it's massage, bodywork or the use of natural products, holistic recovery is about supporting the body's own ability to function optimally. “Acupuncture, massages, different kinds of body work or physical therapy treatments can all be very effective,” says Dr Hyman.
What role can post-workout recovery play?
Recovery isn’t just about healing from injuries – it’s about allowing the body to adapt and grow stronger.
“There’s a phenomenon called hormesis,” Dr Hyman explains. “It’s the idea that a little bit of stress – like exercise – actually makes the body more resilient. But for that process to work, you need proper recovery.”
Effective post-workout recovery isn’t just about resting – it’s about active restoration. Hot and cold therapy, stretching, and Epsom salt baths can all support the body recovering efficiently, help with post-exercise tension and fatigue.
“If you want to change your habits, make them easy, actionable and automatic”
“One of the things that people don’t recognise is the importance of post-exercise recovery,” he continues. “Try hot and cold therapy – cold plunges are great for inflammation. Also, different kinds of body work, stretching and lymphatic draining can all be very helpful. And personally, I find that an Epsom salt bath is my go to thing.”
Making recovery a habit
Maintaining good recovery habits shouldn’t feel like a chore – it should fit effortlessly into your lifestyle.
“I always say, if you want to change your habits, make them easy, actionable, and automatic,” explains Dr Hyman.
Small adjustments – keeping recovery essentials within reach, setting up a simple night-time routine, or integrating bodywork into your week – can make a big difference. Recovery should feel effortless, with simple habits that fit naturally into daily life.
A soothing balm, like WholyMe Relief Balm, kept on the bedside table for easy application before sleep, or gentle stretching to release tension at the end of the day, can help make self-care a consistent and restorative practice.
“I always say if you want to change your habits, make them easy and actionable and automatic,” he says. “I always make sure what I need for my routine is right there.”
"For example, I have all the ingredients for my protein shake on my kitchen counter and my workout equipment in my living room,” he explains. "And rather than buying or installing an expensive sauna or cold plunge: I have a bathtub that’s filled with cold water.”
And our tip? If you’re already comfortable with cold water, try freezing bottles of water for extra ice appeal...
The final say
A holistic recovery routine doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is consistency – incorporating small, restorative habits that help your body perform at its best. By making time to relax, restore and nourish your body, you’re investing in long-term well-being.
This content is paid for by WholyMe and based on their interview material.
The information in this article should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies.
Before taking any supplements or minerals, it’s best to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients through your diet first.
This article contains the thoughts of Dr Mark Hyman and Holland & Barrett cannot be held responsible for them.
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