Disease vs. Dis-ease – What’s the difference?
Throughout my site and in my lectures and appearances you will often see and hear me using the word “dis-ease” instead of “disease.” You may have heard others in the holistic health community tweaking the word and sneaking that hyphen in there too. There is a very good reason.
Here are two definitions to help explain the difference:
Merriam Webster Dictionary – disease – an illness that affects a person, animal, or plant , a condition that prevents the body or mind from working normally, a problem that a person, group, organization, or society has and cannot stop
About.com – dis-ease – A hyphenated variation of the word “disease.” The term dis-ease is used by individuals and healing communities who are aligned with wellness, choosing not to empower health issues by focusing on a particular ailment. The intent is to place emphasis on the natural state of “ease” being imbalanced or disrupted.
I believe our thoughts and words carry power – lots of it. How we think shapes how we act and feel. How we speak defines our personal world and thus the larger world. I believe everything no matter what state, can be tweaked and improved. Did you see what I underlined above – “and cannot stop” – do you really want to believe you can’t get healthier, stronger, more vibrant? I sure don’t!
Take a moment to think about the word “disease” – what comes to mind? What images appear in your head? Bet they are pretty negative and maybe pretty gross. For me the words fester and decay come to mind. Now think about “dis-ease.” How are your feelings different? In my mind, I envision something out of order with the ability to get back in order, back to a state of ease. The process seems easier, more manageable….and no gross images come to mind. It is a far more gentle way of thinking, one that seems less harsh to my body and mind. “Ease” is a positive word and I want this energy as part of my healthcare journey.
That little hyphen seems pretty powerful now doesn’t it?
Change your mind. Change your words. Change your world. Change the world.
