Reaching the level of wellness that you desire and are satisfied with is an ongoing process. It requires frequent evaluation, and sometimes adjustment. You are never "finished". You make decisions every day that directly effect your level of wellness. You are exposed every day to substances that effect one way or the other, how healthy you are. At times you have little or no control over what you are exposed to, but can take steps to protect yourself and your health from undesirable side effects.
Total Wellness involves five areas that need attention. Each area works together and has effects on the other areas.
PHYSICAL HEALTH
What comes to mind first is your physical health. It is most affected by things we physically do. Eating, drinking, bathing, exercising, and sleeping. If you are providing your body with the things it needs to accomplish these daily rituals safely, you may be in pretty good health.
SOCIAL WELLNESS
But Total Wellness can be affected by other things such as stress. Stress can come from any direction, as in relationships with family members, or coworkers. Your Social wellness does affect your health.
FINANCIAL WELLNESS
Have you ever experienced any stress related to your financial situation? Financial wellness can affect your Total Wellness.
Uncontrollable external issues, like the flat tire when you are on your way to the biggest game of the season, can have a direct affect on your level of wellness.
Every time you experience an episode of stress your body has an immediate physical reaction. In optimum health you are prepared to recover from each episode. In poor health, or when there are recurrent exposures, you can become the victim of chronic and degenerative disease.
Stress has been associated with 75-90% of
visits to primary care physician.
MENTAL HEALTH
When your Mental health is optimum you are better prepared to learn and experience new things . The more well informed you are, the easier it is to make good decisions. Mental wellness is closely associated with all the other areas.
SPIRITUAL HEALTH
Spiritual Wellness definitely has an affect on Total Wellness. You can eat, sleep, and think a lot more effectively and easily when you have a clear conscience, and a good relationship with a Greater Power.
