Integrative Care Meets Spirituality: A Truly Holistic Approach to Wellness
By Amy Nutter, MSN, ACNP, BC, IFMCP
Healing goes beyond addressing physical symptoms—it’s about nurturing you as a whole person: mind, body, and spirit. As a functional medicine practitioner, I believe that true healing happens when science is combined with the wisdom of spiritual and energetic practices. But what does that actually look like in practice?
Redefining Spirituality: A Personal Perspective on Healing
To me, spirituality is the deep inner knowing that we are all connected to something greater than ourselves and that, at our core, we are rooted in love. It’s not about adhering to a particular religion or belief system—it’s about cultivating presence, connection, and trust in the healing process, in ourselves and in healthy relationships that we take the time to cultivate and invest in.
Every morning, I begin my day with meditation, setting an intention to be fully present for my patients, to listen with open ears and an open heart, and to serve their highest and greatest good. This practice grounds me, allowing me to listen deeply and provide care with clarity and compassion. I’ve found that the more centered I am, the more effortlessly insight flows—not just for myself, but for my patients as well.
How Mind, Body, and Spirit Work Together in Healing
Science has shown that stress, trauma, and emotional burdens can manifest physically—impacting hormone balance, digestion, energy levels, chronic fatigue and overall well-being. Many of my patients come to me with chronic conditions that persist despite conventional treatment, often exacerbated by unresolved emotional stress.
Functional medicine provides powerful tools to identify and address root causes, but spirituality adds another dimension to healing. Our bodies hold onto emotional and energetic imprints, and if left unprocessed, they can contribute to physical distress. Practices like meditation, breathwork, prayer, and Reiki can help release this stored tension, bringing greater awareness and promoting overall healing.
Bringing Spirituality into Medicine: A Patient-Centered Approach
My approach to spirituality in medicine is simple: I meet every patient where they are. Some already have spiritual practices woven into their lives, while others are skeptical or unfamiliar with the concept. I never push spirituality on anyone—I simply create a space for those who are open to it, letting each individual determine their own level of engagement.
For those who are interested, I often recommend:
Guided meditations – Eckhart Tolle’s A New Earth and his podcast are excellent starting points.
Breathwork and mindfulness – These help regulate stress and support hormonal balance.
Prayer or intention-setting – A simple way to invite clarity and emotional equilibrium.
Energy work (such as Reiki) – Beneficial for nervous system regulation and overall well-being.
The Transformational Power of Spiritual Healing
I have witnessed profound healing when patients embrace spiritual practices. Whether it’s someone finding peace through meditation before facing a major diagnosis, learning to trust their body’s intuitive signals, or finally releasing stored trauma and experiencing relief from chronic symptoms—these transformations reaffirm why I approach medicine holistically.
Curious About Spirituality? A Gentle Path to Exploration
If you’re curious about the role spirituality might play in your healing journey, I invite you to start small. Try a short meditation, spend a few quiet moments in nature, or simply bring mindful awareness to your everyday experiences. Healing happens on multiple levels, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach—what matters most is finding what resonates with you.
Above all, know that if you’re working with me, I will meet you exactly where you are. No pressure, no judgment—just support, love, and a commitment to your highest and best healing.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your healing journey, I invite you to book a free consultation with me. Let's explore how a holistic, integrative approach can support your well-being. Click the button below to get started!