Wellness: what is it, and what is it made up of?
Wellness is a term we all vaguely know but can be difficult to define. Generally, it is a positive sense of health, vitality, fulfillment, and balance.
We often do not think about all of the components of wellness, particularly on a daily basis. However, recognizing the components of wellness can help us reflect on the various aspects of our lives. This can help us identify where we are doing great, and where we can improve to be healthier and happier. Dimensions of well-being often include, but are not limited to:
Physical Well-being: This dimension focuses factors relating to physical health, including nutrition, exercise, sleep, and overall bodily health.
Emotional Well-being: Emotional well-being refers to a person's ability to manage and express their emotions in a healthy way, as well as experiencing positive emotions and coping effectively with stress.
Mental Well-being: Mental well-being involves cognitive aspects, such as having a positive self-image, a sense of purpose, and the ability to manage thoughts and emotions effectively. It also encompasses mental health and psychological resilience.
Social Well-being: Social well-being relates to the quality of an individual's relationships and their sense of belonging within a community or social network. Strong social connections and a support system contribute to this dimension.
Spiritual Well-being: Spiritual well-being pertains to a sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to something larger than oneself. It may involve personal beliefs, values, and practices.
Environmental Well-being: Environmental well-being considers the impact of the external environment on an individual's health and happiness. This includes factors such as living conditions, access to resources, and the sustainability of the surrounding environment.
Occupational Well-being: Occupational well-being relates to the satisfaction and fulfillment derived from one's work or chosen activities, as well as a healthy work-life balance.
Financial Well-being: Financial well-being involves a person's ability to manage their finances, meet their basic needs, and achieve financial stability and security.
Striving for balance and nurturing each dimension can lead to wellness, and living balanced lives. However, there is no one path to wellness, and cultural, societal, and personal factors can influence how individuals perceive and prioritize these dimensions of well-being.
Stay curious, and stay well!