What Is Health and Wellness?

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What Is Health and Wellness?

Wellness and health are frequently used synonymously. They are two distinct ideas with different meanings that are highly variable, even though one cannot possess both at the same time.

A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity .It is how the World Health Organization  defines health.Wellness and health are frequently used synonymously. They are two distinct ideas with different meanings that are highly variable, even though one cannot possess both at the same time.

According to the World Health Organization, wellness is "the optimal state of health of individuals and groups" and is characterised as "a positive approach to living.

The main distinction between wellness and health is that the latter is the active process of reaching the former. Achieving wellness is a prerequisite for attaining health. General health is directly impacted by wellness, and general health is necessary to lead a robust, contented life.
 

Wellness opposed to health

You are not in control over your health, but you can intentionally choose wellness by leading a responsible life and making proactive efforts to improve your health.

Diagnosis of an illness or disease, susceptibility to an illness, and any unanticipated injury are all considered aspects of health..

Achieving your maximum level of health and well-being requires an active process of growth and change called wellness. It is linked to engaging in proactive pursuits, making decisions and altering one's lifestyle, managing potentially harmful risk factors, emphasizing nutrition, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in spiritual practices that promote holistic health.

Risk factors are situations or behaviors that raise a person's chance of getting sick or hurt. The following are a few risk factors that may be detrimental to your health: Smoking: It is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular and lung cancer. Alcohol consumption: It can result in cancer, heart disease, stroke, and damage to the liver. Sexual activity without protection has the potential to transmit sexually transmitted infections, such as the HIV virus.

Extreme sports or physical activity: These can result in fractures and other injuries.

How many dimensions of wellness are there?

Physical: Being physically fit makes one more resilient to illness and disease. Physical wellness also improves physical fitness. A healthy body and mind are stimulated by exercise. By incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine—such as walking, cycling, dog walks, taking steps, and hiking—you can prevent leading a sedentary lifestyle. An individual's physical wellness is enhanced by proper nutrition, a balanced diet, eight glasses of water a day, and enough sleep.

How many dimensions of wellness are there?

Well-being is multifaceted and holistic, encompassing more than just physical health. It consists of  six dimensions: spiritual, social, environmental, emotional, intellectual, and physical wellness.

Physical: Being physically well makes one more fit; one is better able to fend off illnesses and diseases when in good physical health. Exercise promotes physical and mental well-being. Increasing daily physical activity, such as walking, cycling, walking the dog, taking steps, and hiking, can help prevent a sedentary lifestyle. A person's physical wellness is enhanced by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, drinking eight glasses of water a day, and practicing good nutrition.

Intellectual: Mental exercise and engagement through learning, problem-solving, and creativity support intellectual wellness and promote a better attitude. People who learn new things and challenge their mind can avoid mental health problems.

Emotional: An emotionally healthy person is able to handle difficult circumstances. Emotionally healthy people are self-aware, have high self-esteem, and are sensitive to the feelings of others.

Environmental: Maintaining and living in a safe, risk-free physical environment enhances wellness, as does being aware of the part we play in enhancing rather than diminishing our natural surroundings.

Social: A person's entire wellbeing greatly benefits from their social circles and support systems. A person stays happier and healthier when they engage with others, contribute to the community, build strong interpersonal bonds, and uphold enduring relationships with family and friends.

Spiritual: Seeking the meaning and purpose of life is what constitutes spiritual wellness, not one's religion or level of faith. Spiritual wellness can be achieved by cultivating empathy, caring for others, forgiving others, and having a life purpose. You can accomplish this by practicing meditation, giving back to the community, going outside, etc.

On one end, patients with poor health engage the medical fraternity to treat illnesses. On the other end, people focus proactively on prevention and maximize their vitality. They adopt lifestyles that improve health, prevent disease, and enhance their quality of life and a sense of well-being. Wellness is proactive, preventive, and driven by self-responsibility for healthy living.