Eight Dimensions of Wellness
The Eight Dimensions Of Wellness
Often, when most people hear the word ‘wellness’ what comes to mind is physical health. They think of exercises, blood pressure management, nutrition, and so on. The truth, however, is that wellness encompasses much more than the physical dimension. It is the pursuit of balance and growth in every key aspect of our lives. Wellness is generally known to have eight dimensions. These dimensions, when well cared for, improve our quality of life. Each is linked in a complex interaction, which means that while some are more outstanding than others, neglecting any dimension will have an effect on one’s overall health.
The Eight Dimensions of Wellness
Physical Wellness
The physical dimension of wellness includes numerous behaviors such as proper nutrition, exercise, and abstinence from unhealthy habits e.g. alcohol and drug abuse. It involves regularly visiting your doctor for checkups, identifying disease symptoms and getting help, and preventing injuries. Practicing physical wellness doesn’t just increase your lifespan, it also keeps you healthy enough to enjoy every moment of it. To properly practice physical wellness; get sufficient rest, exercise frequently, eat fruits and vegetables, watch your meal portions, go for medical checkups, use protective gear such as helmets and seat belts, and don’t abuse alcohol. Each of these physical wellness tips will help improve your quality of life.
Emotional wellness
The emotional dimension of wellness is a dimension that is very much in tune with the other dimensions. Being well emotionally means that you have the ability to express natural emotions such as joy, sadness, or anger. It is being able to love people and to be loved in return. Emotional wellness is also being able to find fulfillment in life and to be at peace. It includes self-acceptance, self-esteem, optimism, and self-expression. To enjoy emotional wellness; provide and seek support, get in tune with your emotions, learn to be optimistic, practice stress management, accept yourself, and practice time management.
Social wellness
When a person is socially well, he/she knows how to interact in the community and play their parts to achieve a common goal. Social wellness refers to having good communication skills, having a support network that includes friends and family, and developing relationships with others. It also includes having respect for people –both strangers and friends, and contributing to the society. To achieve social wellness; contribute to the community, build healthy relationships, share talents and skills, be actively involved, and share your feelings, ideas, and thoughts.
Spiritual wellness
The spiritual dimension of wellness involves the beliefs, values, and principles that guide one’s life. It means committing to these beliefs and the sense of purpose that they provide. Spiritual wellness also encompasses the will to seek meaning in the world and find purpose in your existence. It includes questioning what you can and appreciating things that cannot be explained. A person who is spiritually well strives to find harmony between exterior forces and what lies within them. To be spiritually well; meditate frequently, be inquisitive, be in tune with yourself, follow your principles and instincts, explore your spirituality, and understand that not everything in life can be explained.
Intellectual wellness
The intellectual dimension of wellness stimulates brain activities. Just as our body needs to be exercised to be kept fit, so does our mind to keep being inspired. A person who is intellectually well has a will to keep learning and an active mind. Such a person makes use of any resource he/she can find to improve skill and expand their knowledge. Staying current and practicing activities that keep your mind active is very important. To achieve optimal intellectual wellness; read frequently, find a mentor, take courses and attend seminars, and befriend people who intellectually challenge you.
Environmental wellness
Environmental wellness involves the environment and your awareness of it. It connects your wellbeing with the wellbeing of your surroundings, reminding you that the environment, both directly and indirectly, has an impact on how you feel. For example, when surrounded by dirt or clutter, you feel uncomfortable. When your environment is in order, you feel relaxed and safe. Environmental wellness also involves being socially responsible and caring for the environment. To practice environmental wellness; reduce, reuse and recycle, conserve natural resources, and minimize the use of chemicals. Walking barefoot and spending lots of time outside can also help you grow in tune with your environment and eager to keep it safe.
Vocational wellness
Vocational wellness, also known as occupational wellness, involves the use of your talents and skills to gain satisfaction and a sense of purpose in your life. Developing this dimension of wellness relates to your mindset and attitude towards your work. When you achieve vocational wellness, you can experience satisfaction in your place of employment and have a positive attitude. Vocational wellness also includes an ability to achieve a work/life balance. To achieve vocational wellness; choose a career path that is appealing to you, one you can contribute to with your skill and talents. Learn new skills and be open to change, create goals for your future, and explore different fields.
Financial wellness
A person who is financially well is a person who is satisfied or content with their financial situation. Often, the state of a person’s finances can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Hence, being able to improve your financial situation can enhance wellness. To manage financial wellness; work with budgets, open a savings account and set money aside monthly, limit unnecessary spending, and avoid debts. You can also cook your meals and use libraries for free books. Spending within your means can help you achieve financial wellness.
Conclusion
Changing your lifestyle to accommodate each dimension of wellness may not be easy. Sometimes it requires trials and errors. Sometimes it takes longer to perfect. However, for a better quality of life, it is essential that you don’t give up trying to achieve a complete state of wellness. Simply keep in mind that wellness is a continuous practice, which means you have lots of time to get it right.
