Holistic describes an approach that looks at the whole system, person, or situation, not just separate parts. In medicine or problem-solving, it means considering physical, mental, social, and other factors together.
From “holism,” coined from Greek “holos,” meaning “whole, entire,” plus the adjective-forming suffix “-istic.” It was popularized in the early 20th century to contrast with reductionist thinking.
Holistic thinking treats parts like puzzle pieces that only make sense in the full picture. For example, a holistic doctor might ask about your sleep, stress, and relationships—not just your symptoms. The word challenges the modern habit of slicing life into tiny specialties and forgetting how tightly everything is connected.
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