The Underrated Power of CARING in Healing: How to Use it Wisely

In the world of holistic healing, most people obsess over superfoods, supplements, and the latest wellness trends—but they completely overlook one of the most potent healing agents out there: CARING. And no, I’m not talking about some fluffy, feel-good concept. I’m talking about a real, measurable force that impacts your body, mind, and spirit in ways most people don’t even realize.

The First Rule: Care for Yourself First

If you’re running on empty, exhausted, and barely keeping it together, how effective do you think you’ll be in helping others—or even yourself? Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s strategic. Feeding your body the right nutrients, moving with intention, and prioritizing rest aren’t luxuries; they’re non-negotiables for vibrant health.

But here’s where most people miss the mark: Caring doesn’t stop with you. It’s a force that expands outward, influencing your relationships, your environment, and ultimately, your ability to heal and thrive.

Caring as a Healing Tool

When you genuinely care—whether for yourself or others—you create a ripple effect that fosters healing. Think about it: A kind word, a reassuring touch, even just being present can bring someone back from the edge. And guess what? Science backs this up. Emotional connection lowers stress hormones, stabilizes the nervous system, and promotes physical healing.

Yet, in today’s fast-paced, self-absorbed world, caring is often dismissed as unimportant. Big mistake. True healing happens not just in the food you eat, but in the way you connect, support, and uplift those around you.

But Beware: Caring Overload is Real

Here’s where it gets tricky. Too much caring can backfire. Some people get so caught up in helping others that they become dependent on that role, draining their own energy and stalling their own growth.

Healing isn’t about hand-holding forever. It’s about learning, implementing, and then standing on your own. So yes, care deeply—but also know when to step back and let the process unfold.

The CARING-Self-Esteem Connection

Here’s something most people don’t realize: Caring fosters self-esteem. When people spend time together in a meaningful way, they build confidence, purpose, and resilience. But it’s a two-way street. Self-care is just as important, because if you burn out, you’re no good to anyone. The real goal? To create a cycle where caring fuels self-esteem and self-esteem fuels lasting growth.

In fact, research from the National Library of Medicine suggests that self-esteem acts as a ‘sociometer’—a gauge of our social belonging. Meanwhile, Dr. Rodger Hines from the University of Toronto notes that higher self-esteem reduces stress, boosts energy, and restores hope. So, whether you view it through a psychological, medical, or holistic lens, one thing is clear: Caring and self-worth are linked.

Writen by: Janette deVries RHN

www.YouNiqueHolisticNutrition.com

Sources

Compendium of pharmaceuticals and Specialties 1988. The Canadian Reference for Health Professionals. Twenty-Third Edition 1988. Canadian Pharmaceutical Association: 1988, C-section.

Kristina tchalova, Sophie Belend, Mona Lisa Chanda, Daniel J. Levitin and Jennifer A. Bartz. "Shifting the Sociometer: Opioid receptor blockade lowers self-esteem". PubMed Central. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10088355/