Wellness is an overall balance of a person’s physical, social, spiritual, emotional, intellectual and occupational well-being. It involves constantly making choices to further one’s health and fulfillment.
The definition of wellness differs from that of medical health. It aims to prevent illness and prolong life rather than treating diseases.
Physical
Optimal physical wellness involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle that allows you to be physically active, get enough sleep and eat nutritious foods. It also involves avoiding behaviours that can negatively impact your physical health such as smoking, alcohol and substance misuse.
Developing life-long physical activities to enhance strength, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and other aspects of health contributes to overall wellness. Engage in regular movement (at least 30 minutes, five times a week) to improve flexibility, muscular strength, aerobic and cardiovascular health.
The National Wellness Institute defines wellness as an active process through which people become aware of, and make choices toward, a more successful existence. It’s an intentional and ongoing commitment to improving your physical, mental, social, financial, spiritual, environmental and vocational well-being.
Mental
Mental wellness is a state of mental health that enables people to have positive emotions, communicate effectively, learn new things and contribute to society. It includes feelings of resilience, self-esteem and hope.
It also includes grit, which means purposely moving forward with determination and direction despite challenges or setbacks.
It is a state of well-being that can be enhanced or improved through coping skills, healthy lifestyles and other strategies. It is a vital component of overall health.
Social
Keeping relationships with friends and family can improve physical health, mental well-being and overall well-being. A healthy social life can also reduce the risk of developing stress-related illness or diseases, and promote a more positive outlook on life.
Having strong, meaningful relationships can improve your emotional and physical wellness and help you live longer. It’s also important to maintain good relationships with your coworkers – it can make them more supportive during times of distress.
Spiritual
Spiritual wellness involves having a set of values, principles and morals that provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It also focuses on developing compassion and altruism for others.
Spirituality can help people during times of grief, loss and illness. It can also help them to find a sense of hope and purpose during difficult times.
Spiritual wellness can be fostered through a variety of activities and experiences including volunteering, self-reflection, meditation or prayer. It can be strengthened through a sense of gratitude and by maintaining a playful and curious attitude.
Emotional
Emotional wellness is the ability to identify and experience a range of emotions. It also involves learning how to manage your emotions effectively when faced with stress and challenge.
Studies have linked emotional health to happiness and, conversely, lack of it with depression. However, this doesn’t mean that emotional health automatically makes you happier.
The ability to manage your emotions is a skill that can take time to master and requires practice, attention, and dedication.
Daily life presents us with a series of ups and downs, like ocean waves. An emotionally healthy individual will be able to ride the wave and bounce back quickly from a big emotional storm.