The Oxford Dictionary defines “wellness” as: “The state of being free of physical or psychological disease, illness or malfunction.” It is important to observe that the definition refers to both mental and physical wellbeing. We often underestimate the impact that our mental health has on our lives. People often take good health for granted. Richard Evans of the Work Foundation at the Lancaster University writes in an article about health and wellbeing in the workplace that: “Health is something you tend to not fully …show more content…
Lanier Adult Medicine state in an article on their webpage that achieving a state of wellness is critical for individuals who want to improve quality of life. The doctors associated with the group are of opinion that: “It creates a sense of peace that surpasses the need for material possessions and subdues the stresses from external situations. If you live a highly stressful, drama ridden life, then wellness will help alleviate those stresses by connecting you with your inner peace and improve your physical health.” Greenberg (2004:7) takes it one step further in stating that health consists of five components which include physical, social, mental, emotional and spiritual health. It is therefore possible to come to the conclusion that wellness affects our lives in all …show more content…
It is also important to exercise our minds. Brain exercises and activities such as reading on a daily basis improves memory, comprehension and is beneficial to warding off diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. According to Drs Katz and Rubin (www.rdm.com) exposing your brain to new experiences such as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand can also sharpen your mind. Meditation practices, life coaching and therapy assist in keeping our stress levels lower and decreases the probability of mental illnesses such as Depression. More severe mental disorders such as Schizophrenia and Bipolar Mood Disorder often are related to chemical imbalances and need to be treated with medication. Mental illnesses can often leave an individual feeling overwhelmed and debilitated in completing everyday activities. It can also influence a person’s relationships and work performance significantly.
Social health is affected by both social interaction and interpersonal relationships. As human beings we all influence the people around us. We do not exist in isolation. Our actions affect not only ourselves, but also the people we come into contact with. It is therefore important to select these interactions carefully. Continued exposure to people with negative energy and harmful habits can greatly impact our lives. Experts often advise that we should surround ourselves with positive and uplifting