Wellness: What Is the True Concept Behind It?

Although the word ‘wellness’ might feel modern, the idea behind it is anything but new. For thousands of years, across cultures and continents, people have embraced practices that nurture the body, mind, and spirit.

The concept of wellness was always about balance. Rooted in timeless principles, it drew on natural remedies, preventive care, and mindful self-care. These foundations have shaped the way humans have approached health for generations, giving rise to the modern concept of wellness; a lifestyle centred on encouraging good habits.

Today, wellness is more than a notion; it's incorporated into the rhythm of our daily lives. From the way we eat and move to how we rest and recharge, it has grown into a thriving industry while still reflecting the age-old desire for a healthier, more harmonious life.

What Is Wellness?

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), wellness is defined as:

The active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.

Two important insights emerge from this definition of wellness:

1. Wellness is an active journey, defined by choices and actions.

2. Wellness is multi-dimensional, encompassing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of life.

The first point sets wellness apart from related terms like health and wellbeing. While these concepts share common ground, wellness is not a fixed snapshot of being “healthy” or “content.” Instead, it is a continuous journey, a conscious effort to promote balance and resilience across all areas of life. It’s about making intentional choices day by day to move towards a more holistic, positive state.

As for the second point, it highlights the richness and complexity of wellness; it is shaped by a mix of factors, some within our control, such as our diet, sleep, and daily habits, and some beyond it, such as our environment or life circumstances. Recognising these layers allows us to approach wellness with both effort and compassion, understanding that it is as much about navigating life’s challenges as it is about celebrating its joys.

Wellness in Every Aspect

While some models of wellness highlight more than ten elements, we’ll focus here on six that form the foundation of a balanced and fulfilling life:

Physical wellness

Caring for your body through good sleep, nourishing foods, regular movement, and mindful habits that keep you feeling strong and energised.

Emotional wellness

The ability to understand, express, and manage your own emotions, while also showing empathy and kindness towards the feelings of others.

Mental or intellectual wellness

Staying curious, enjoying lifelong learning, and finding creative ways to apply knowledge to your life and work.

Environmental wellness

Recognising and nurturing the connection between yourself and the world around you, and making choices that support a healthy, sustainable environment.

Social wellness

Building and maintaining meaningful relationships, whether with family, friends, colleagues, or your wider community, and feeling supported and connected in return.

Spiritual wellness

Reflecting on your values and beliefs, seeking a sense of purpose, and developing an understanding of your place in the world.

Your Journey to Wellbeing

Wellness is ultimately a personal journey; each of us is responsible for the choices we make, the decisions we take, and the attitude we bring to our own lives. Yet, it’s important to recognise that our surroundings play an important role; the society we live in, the culture we're part of, and the environment we inhabit all shape our wellbeing.

Even so, prioritising ourselves is essential. By being resourceful and making the most of the options available, we can take a proactive approach to nurturing our lifestyle and mindset. The goal is to lay a strong foundation for wellness, giving ourselves the best chance to live healthily, thrive, and enjoy life at its fullest.

"Wellness is a journey that starts within." ~ Phoebe Lapine

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