holistica

Holística is the feminine form used in Spanish and Portuguese to describe an approach that considers a system as a whole. Rooted in the Greek holos meaning 'whole,' it contrasts with reductionist methods that analyze parts in isolation. In discourse, holística emphasizes interconnectedness, context, and balance among physical, mental, social, and environmental factors.

Its usage spans medicine, psychology, education, environmental stewardship, and business, where practitioners aim to address root causes and emergent properties rather than symptoms alone. In everyday language, it can imply a comprehensive view of wellbeing, community health, or sustainable development.

In health, holistic or holística medicine seeks to integrate lifestyle, nutrition, mind-body practices, and social support. Critics note that without rigorous evidence, some holística practices risk masking ineffective treatments as 'whole-person' care; others differentiate between holistic care and unverified alternatives.

From a theoretical perspective, holística aligns with systems thinking and holism, which study how components interact and produce properties not present in parts.

Related terms include holism, holistic health, integrative medicine, systems theory, and interdisciplinarity.