The Swedish Pilates Studio

Wellness has become a “trendy” word

But what does it really mean? Is wellness the absence of illness, a sense of well-being, or an active process of engaging in healthy activities?

Wellness is a state of mind, one where physical and mental health converges. It goes beyond just eating good foods and going to the gym; it requires a holistic understanding of the profound complexities of the human condition. Simply put, it is a desire to participate with our body by listening to our body.

Wellness is a multidimensional state of being describing the existence of positive health in an individual as exemplified by quality of life and a sense of well-being.

While medical professionals can gain insight from different resources of valuable information, it’s important that individuals use wellness as caring about them self. It represents engaging in activities that prolong the sense of well-being. After all, we are complex spices that require feeling happy, being well and controlling our bodies.

Wellness is an active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a more successful existence.

·         Process means that improvement is always possible

·         Aware means that we are continuously seeking more information about how we can improve

·         Choices means that we consider a variety of options and select those in our best interest

If wellness is multidimensional, what are the dimensions of wellness? The most commonly described sub-dimensions are the following:

• Social wellness
• Occupational Wellness
• Physical Wellness
• Emotional Wellness
• Environmental Wellness

The physical dimension of wellness encourages cardiovascular flexibility and strength and also encourages regular, physical activity. Physical development encourages knowledge about food and nutrition and discourages the use of tobacco, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption.

Emotional wellness includes the degree to which one feels positive and enthusiastic about oneself and life. It includes the capacity to manage one's feelings and related behaviors including the realistic assessment of one's limitations, development of autonomy, and ability to cope effectively with stress. The emotionally well person maintains satisfying relationships with others.

In order to achieve a state of wellness in our own lives or try to guide others to it, we must be aware of each of the dimensions. We may not all be physically fit or free from disease; we can, however, strive for increased wellness by working with what we’ve been dealt.

Yours in Health & Fitness,
Birgitta
www.newfitness.com.au