In Ethiopia, we haven’t yet adopted the habit of routine medical check-ups unless we experience discomfort. While acute illnesses can often be treated when symptoms appear, our bodies sometimes fail to send clear signals until a condition becomes advanced; occasionally too late to intervene effectively.
As the World Health Organization (WHO) states, health is not merely the absence of disease. You don’t need to feel sick to have underlying systemic issues. In holistic health, we detect early imbalances through tests like a CBC (Complete Blood Count) before a client notices any problems.
Unlike conventional lab ranges that flag only critical abnormalities, we focus on “optimal” range levels essential for long-term wellness, even if standard tests consider them “normal.” This proactive approach addresses potential health risks years before they escalate into disease.
That is why in the wellness world, we say: Wellness is not a luxury; it is an act of self-love. As a gift to yourself, make the commitment to prioritize your health and do it annually and biannually.
Contributed by Seble Alemu (DTCM)
Lic. Ac. DTCM
Visit: acupunctureinaddis.com
This article is the first of a six-part series on Wellness contributed by Seble Alemu, Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Licensed Acupuncturist (DTCM, Lic. Ac.)
Next month – Stress: The Silent Epidemic