In the narrative surrounding autism, the focus often falls on treatment plans and therapies that involve medication or specialized interventions. However, a recent recount by Tao Lin in his article “The Story of Autism” provides a compelling case for how diet, exercise, and social interaction—essentially lifestyle changes—can influence the condition positively.

The journey detailed from 2001 to 2008 was marked by significant shifts in physical and mental health achieved through seemingly straightforward avenues like eating better and being more physically active. The tale highlights an often overlooked but poignant truth: our bodily health and mental health are tightly interwoven, and shifts in one can lead to improvements in the other.

Here’s where I personally resonate with this. Diet and exercise are not just about achieving a summer-ready body or clocking in that elusive personal best. They are agents of change that have the ability to make measurable impacts on our neurological health. It’s an aspect I emphasize heavily in my coaching. When we only look through the lens of conventional treatments, we might overlook these natural, accessible methods that can create remarkable changes.

Imagine, if you will, a garden full of different types of plants. Each plant has its own unique set of requirements: soil pH, amount of sunlight, and type of fertilizer. Conventional treatments are akin to general-purpose fertilizers, good for many but not ideal for all. Dietary changes and exercise are like specialized nutrients that, when applied, can bring about a bloom that you didn’t think was possible in that garden.

Social interaction, even through digital means like blogging, shouldn’t be discounted either. It acts as the “sunlight” that helps bring about a balanced growth, especially in an increasingly virtual world.

To sum it up, the holistic approach isn’t just a buzzword; it’s an arsenal of tools that can significantly improve the quality of life across different areas, including conditions like autism. We, as health coaches, aren’t just sculpting bodies; we’re shaping lives.


Read more at: The Story of Autism: How We Got Here, How We Heal by Tao Lin ~dacten-sidlyn - by ~bidbel

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